• Taipa Village Cultural Association is bringing back its popular Show-Off art exhibition this year.
• The exhibition showcases the collections that three collectors have built up over many years.

Taipa Village Cultural Association’s art collectors’ exhibition Show-Off has received an enthusiastic response in previous years. This year, the organizer has decided to present the exhibition again, inviting three renowned collectors from diverse backgrounds – economist José Isaac Duarte, legal consultant Luís Pessanha and artist Chao Iok Leng – to take part.

This year’s edition, titled Show-Off 4.0, opened on 4 March at the Taipa Village Art Space. The exhibition presents collections the three collectors have built up over many years, linking the works on display to the most intimate setting of “home”. By sharing their perspectives on collecting, the show highlights collecting as a form of cultural asset.

Duarte presents works by Mozambican artist Malangatana Valente Ngwenya (1936–2011). Malangatana is widely regarded as one of Mozambique’s most important modern artists and a major figure in 20th century African art.

Chao brings two name plaques from her former shops, along with personal objects she has kept at home with deep emotional attachment. Chinese shop name plaques have a long cultural tradition and were once a defining feature of Chinese streetscapes.

Luís presents artworks that he and his partner have spent many years acquiring locally and overseas. Their collection has gradually expanded and evolved, increasingly shaping the character of their living space. Today, the accumulation of works extends from the walls up to the ceiling, reflecting the depth of their commitment to art and their lasting enthusiasm.

“This rare and special exhibition aims to explore the nature of collecting and to prompt visually stimulating conversations around cultural possessions, sparked by individuals’ very specific and highly personal interests,” said João Ó, President of Taipa Village Cultural Association.