[Artwork] Legible City Hong Kong
Artist: Jeffrey Shaw
Credit: Cheong Tai Leong, Leoson (Application software), Kachi Chan (Hong Kong Type 3D font modelling), Dung Kai-cheung (Literary research), Jeffrey SHAW and Osage Art Foundation (Co-producers)
Project Overview
Legible City Hong Kong represents the latest evolution of Jeffrey Shaw's seminal media artwork Legible City (1989–1991), developed in collaboration with Hong Kong fiction writer Dung Kai-cheung. Installed at the M+ museum, this iteration invites visitors to ride a stationary bicycle connected to a large screen that displays a digital representation of Hong Kong. Participants freely navigate this virtual environment, with the M+ Facade livestreaming their interactive cycling journeys in real-time on Friday nights, while pre-recorded versions are shown on other nights.
Technical Narrative
The visual framework draws upon cartographic principles, with the bicycle equipped with an iPad that displays the real cityscape alongside the routes being explored. Unlike previous versions with flat terrains, the intricate topography of Hong Kong introduced significant technical and creative challenges. The modified system now enables users to control direction, simulate cycling on varied slopes by adjusting elevation, and experience resistance, adding authenticity to the interaction. This enhances both the visual dynamics of the virtual environment and deepens the cycling experience, creating a more immersive and interactive engagement for the participants.
