THE VIDEO STORE (2025)
Two film enthusiasts, frustrated by the growing lack of meaningful online interactions, finally reach their breaking point after being banned from an online platform. Seeking a new "oasis," they stumble upon an art gathering space (Gallery 1265) that is about to be converted into a chain store by a major corporation (e.g. Tim Hortons). During the brief interim period before renovations begin the two decide to set up a temporary shelter(the video store) inspired by their romanticized memories of old video rental stores. Their goal is to prove that such offline spaces for film lovers still hold artistic and social value, or not. Enjoy it while it lasts…
In THE VIDEO STORE (2025), Gallery 1265 is transformed into a video rental store with various video works by Leo Dong and Felix Liu—including films, documentaries, and music—burned onto DVDs and arranged on shelves for visitors to browse, freely select and watch. The space is divided into a private viewing zone for an undisturbed, coffee-accompanied screening experience tailored to introverts; a public viewing area with screenings for social engagement or "social beings" to recharge and connect; and a music corner playing songs 24/7, where visitors can switch tracks or enjoy entire albums. This setup allows the audience to experience each work without interference, like reviews or ratings, in a nostalgic, old-fashioned way.
The exhibition itself takes an experimental approach, inviting viewers to reflect on how we currently consume films, information, and creative works—and how we interact with others. It raises a crucial question: What is the significance of offline film community spaces in the context of our modern world? If such a space were to exist today, could it bring about any meaningful change?
This exhibition also serves as an exploration of video art exhibitions, prompting reflection on the nature of choice. In the age of streaming, how does freely selecting content differ from passively absorbing what’s recommended? The "video store" experience is one of active choice and exploration, freeing visitors from being "defined by algorithms" and allowing them to experience a genuine freedom of choice.
Leo Yiliang Dong
“Leo" is a human being living on the edges of the city, torn between dreams and reality but holding on because “Leo" believes in human potential.
Through video, graphic design, and other art forms, explores the everyday struggles of urban life and tries to find small moments of joy out of it.
Felix Liu Wenxuan
In my video works, I attempt to recontextualize aspects of my everyday life into sarcastic, self-reflexive, often surreal single-character dramas where I try to make sense of my love-hate relationship with an over-active mind. By taking inspiration from a variety of film genres such as mockumentary, horror, and Surrealism as well as the Internet and pop culture, I try to use story-telling and filmmaking to get my audience to reflect on my self-reflection, or at least to entertain myself and others along the way.
Opened from February 12 to 26, 2025
Please contact Gallery 1265 for potential exhibition archival.
