Photographs serve as a vital medium for archiving collective memory and preserving heritage, particularly for places that will eventually disappear, like the walled city. While few ventured there, even fewer thought to document it. However, Ian Lambot and Greg Girard did just that in the years leading up to its demolition, culminating in the iconic book City of Darkness, published by Watermark, which has sold over 20,000 copies to date. This collection not only preserves the heritage of the notorious walled city through photographs and stories but also served as a source of inspiration for future generations of artists, still influencing everything from video games and AI-generated imagery, like that of Bianca Tse showcased in this exhibition, to films such as the latest blockbuster,  ‘Twilight of the Warriors: Walled in.’

According to Sarah Greene: “This exhibition showcases a remarkable collection of photographs that illuminate the stories of its residents. 'Voices of the Walls' underscores the significance of remembering Kowloon Walled City as a testament to human ingenuity and adaptability. It celebrates the spirit of those who lived there while highlighting the vital role of photography and books in preserving heritage in a constantly evolving city like Hong Kong, for generations to come. We are also prompted to consider what should be documented now to be cherished in the future, before it too fades away.”