In 2008, Hong Kong-born Canadian
artist Yam Lau visited Beijing to develop
a project about traditional Chinese
courtyard houses. China’s vernacular
architecture has sustained customary
ways of life and values for centuries,
but is quickly being replaced by new
urban development. Hutong House
uses digital video and 3-D imaging
software to reconstitute the architectural
layout, form and ambience of
these spaces. The work hypothesizes a
unique combination of space, time and
imagery, past and present. Opening up
the historical house in virtual space,
Lau reconstructs a pure and imaginary
vision of China.

The artist wishes to thank the
Canada Council, the Ontario Arts
Council, the Toronto Arts Council and
TFVA for their support.