Mike Lau

Facade of Smiles is an ongoing semi-surrealist series that explores my personal journey through the complexities of living with major depression and challenges how people in the digital age conceal their true emotions behind the screen. Inspired by Frida Kahlo, Vincent van Gogh and Yayoi Kusama who found solace in working on self-portraiture, this series became my first try using photography as a mental treatment for depression relief. The smile emoji, generally symbolising happiness and overly used by me on social media, serves as a shield to protect my broken heart, creating a sharp contrast to my crying face. It aims to depict how easily genuine emotions can be hidden through social media and how challenging it can be to detect mental disorders.

Mike Lau is a British lens-based artist and photographer, was born in Hong Kong and is currently based in Toronto, Canada. He graduated from OCAD University with a BFA in photography in 2020. His body of work is primarily focusing on conceptual self-portrait, delving into both political and personal dimensions. Through his lens, he serves his body as a medium to unravel a diverse array of topics, all inspired by his rich life experiences.

Beyond the realm of conceptual arts, Lau demonstrates his artistic visions through works in nature, documentary and architecture using both traditional and experimental approaches. He is also recognized as an experienced photo technician showcasing a deep understanding of photographic theories, gear operations, photo finishing and maintenance.

Lau's work has been exhibited in "Spectra 2021" & "Blue" at Gallery 44, "GradEx 105" at OCAD University, and "Reflection" at UE Galerie in Germany.

Contact the artist directly for information on purchasing.

Contact: mikelauphoto@gmail.com
Website: www.mikelauphoto.com
IG: @mikelau_photo

May 15 to May 26th, 2024
918 Bathurst Street, Toronto
Sun and Star Rooms

Hours: Wednesday - Sunday, 12pm to 5pm
Opening reception: Thursday, May 16th from 6-9pm
Artist talk: Saturday, May 18th from 1-3pm