Born in Hong Kong and now based in New York, interdisciplinary artist Steffie Chau has a penchant for exploring the sentimental, the unseen, and the communal. Like many art world self-starters who nuance their personal artistic practices with curatorial experimentations, Chau has transformed her midtown apartment’s living room into a gallery in order to showcase the work of her peers and supporters, many of whom are emerging artists. In a recent social media post, Chau points out that this daring, unconventional transformation of the domestic interior is, in fact, inspired by NYC’s iconic spaces such as Sheep Meadow, Chinatown, and Washington Square Park.
In this interview with writer Xuezhu Jenny Wang, Chau shares her journey of launching the artist-run gallery, encouraging young creatives to find their voice through open-minded collaborations.
Jenny Wang: When did you start thinking about turning your apartment into a gallery space, and how is the process going so far?
Steffie Chau: The idea of turning my apartment into a gallery space has been a gradual evolution rather than a sudden decision. It began as a way to create an intimate setting where art could exist alongside everyday life, honoring the rich history of unconventional spaces in the art world. I was inspired by the kitchen show of Hans Ulrich Obrist and other apartment galleries, which blurred the lines between private and public.
The process has been both challenging and rewarding. Organizing exhibitions in my home allows for a deeper connection with guests, creating a space where art is experienced in a lived context rather than a sterile gallery environment. As I prepare for the upcoming exhibition, I’m excited about the interactions it will foster and how it will invite new conversations around migration and belonging.
JW: Could you discuss how your art practice informs your curatorial approach and vice versa? Has l’appartement 49c changed your own art-making?
SC: My art practice is deeply intertwined with my curatorial approach. Both are driven by themes of migration and the emotional resonance of personal experiences. As I work with my team to curate exhibitions for l’appartement 49c, I find myself reflecting on how each artwork speaks to the space and the narratives we carry. This exchange has influenced my art-making, prompting me to explore new materials and concepts that resonate with my guests’ experiences and the gallery’s evolving story. For instance, the act of waiting (central to my current work) has become a shared experience in the space, allowing me to delve into the intricacies of time and transition, personally and through other artists’ works.
JW: How do you stay intentional in gathering materials/inspirations for your pieces?
SC: I approach this process as a form of archiving, collecting fragments of my personal and family histories. I’m drawn to objects that carry emotional weight, be it a piece of fabric, a faded photograph, or found objects that evoke memory and presence. I keep a sketchbook and journal where I document ideas, inspirations, and the stories behind each item. This practice allows me to maintain a strong connection to the narratives I wish to convey in my work. Additionally, I often reflect on how these materials relate to the themes of liminality and transition, ensuring that each piece resonates with the larger story I aim for viewers to connect with.
JW: How has your art changed with the ebbs and flows of life? What are you currently working on or exploring?
SC: My art has naturally evolved, reflecting my experiences and curiosities of life. Currently, I’m exploring the concept of liminality as a transformative space. I wonder how it can foster growth and introspection. This exploration is deeply personal, tied to my journey of navigating the visa process and the anxieties accompanying it. I’m also experimenting with materials that evoke a sense of intimacy, like meshing oil paintings and organic forms, which mirror the fragility and beauty of human experiences. This ongoing dialogue with my life influences how I engage with my art and invite viewers to connect with it.
JW: What are your visions for l’appartement 49c? Will it stay an organic apartment gallery, or are you hoping to expand?
SC: My vision for l’appartement 49c is to maintain its organic nature while exploring ways to expand its reach and impact. I believe in the power of intimate spaces to foster meaningful dialogues, so I want to preserve the intimate atmosphere while continuing partnerships with other artists and curators.
I’m excited about the potential for pop-up exhibitions or workshops that could invite diverse perspectives and narratives into the space. Ultimately, I hope l’appartement 49c will continue evolving as a living project, adapting to the stories and experiences of the art and its visitors.
JW: Do you have any advice for young creatives/project leaders in the arts and culture industry?
SC: My advice for young creatives is to stay authentic to their vision and values while remaining open to collaboration and learning. Building a community around your work is essential. Seek connections with other artists, curators, and organizations that resonate with your practice. Embracing the challenges of working in the arts is essential as they often lead to unexpected opportunities and growth.
Lastly, remember that art is a powerful tool for storytelling and connection. Using your voice, whether it be literal or through your art, there are many ways to share narratives that matter to you and those around you. Stay curious, and don’t be afraid to experiment. The process itself can be just as valuable as the final product.
Check out the Instagram accounts for l’appartement 49c and Steffie Chau.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
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Jenny Wang is a writer and editor focusing on art, immigration, and gender rights. She is the editor-in-chief of IMPULSE Magazine and contributes art criticism to online publications such as Cultbytes. She holds a B.A. from Columbia University.
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