The Pearl Lam Podcast

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl sits down with Alex Han and Ed Lee, the founders of RED FLAGGED, a London-based platform created to support and amplify Queer East and Southeast Asian communities.

What began as a response to the lack of visibility and safe spaces for queer Asians in the city has evolved into a vital cultural movement grounded in activism, creativity, and care. Together, they unpack the deeper purpose behind RED FLAGGED’s mission, creating spaces where marginalised voices are not just included, but actively celebrated.

From late-night parties that ch...

Rasmus Munk, the visionary chef and co-owner of Alchemist in Copenhagen, sits down with Pearl Lam for a conversation that goes far beyond food. In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Rasmus opens up about his journey from traditional kitchens to creating one of the most radical and immersive dining experiences in the world.

At Alchemist, meals unfold across multiple acts, combining theatrical presentation, visual art, science, and social commentary into a singular experience. Guided by his philosophy of “holistic cuisine,” Rasmus uses food as a platform to provoke thought and spark dialogue around global issues.

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl sits down with her longtime friend William Louey Lai Kuen at his residence in Hong Kong for a wide-ranging and personal conversation.

Together, they reflect on William’s life as a third-generation member of one of Hong Kong’s most prominent business families and as a Non-Executive Director of Kowloon Motor Bus, one of the city’s oldest and most iconic transportation companies. William speaks candidly about the legacy of his family’s business, the values that have shaped his leadership style, and how he balances heritage with the dema...

On this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam engages in an insightful conversation with British writer, curator, and cultural commentator Ekow Eshun. Eshun, renowned for his compelling work on Black identity, futurism, and the politics of representation, shares his reflections on the pivotal role of art in shaping narratives around race, memory, and belonging.

Throughout the episode, Eshun delves into his curatorial practice, discussing the thought-provoking exhibitions he has curated that have left a lasting impact on the art world. He provides a detailed account of his landmark exhibitions, highlighting how they have challenged conventional...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl is joined by her longtime friend, Scott Stover, for an insightful discussion about his remarkable journey from the finance sector to the art world.

Scott reflects on his early years in Paris, which significantly influenced his career trajectory, his start in banking, and his transition from managing Special Situations in Europe to founding the American Friends of the Centre Pompidou.

They explore the business strategies Scott implemented in nonprofit ventures, the role of sustainability in cultural institutions, and the personal and professional values that continue to...

Anne-Louise Sommer, director of Designmuseum Danmark since 2011, joins Pearl Lam for a conversation on the transformative role of design in society. Under her leadership, the museum has grown into an internationally recognized institution, championing the idea that "Design must be shared."

In this episode, Anne-Louise discusses the intersection of design, history, and culture, her work in academia, and how museums shape public understanding of creativity. From her tenure at the Danish Design School to her influence on contemporary design discourse, she shares insights on the evolving landscape of design education and curation.

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During a recent visit to Copenhagen, Pearl Lam visited Restaurant Jordnær, an acclaimed dining destination that has captivated food enthusiasts worldwide. She spoke with head chef Eric Vildgaard and his wife, restaurant host Tina Vildgaard, uncovering the dedication and artistry that define their approach to Nordic gastronomy.

Their discussion delved into the philosophy behind Danish fine dining, exploring the craftsmanship and deep respect for local ingredients that set Nordic cuisine apart on the global stage. Eric, known for his extraordinary culinary vision, shared the deeply personal journey that led him to the helm of Jordnær. Fr...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam speaks with Katy Wickremsinghe, founder of The Wick, a platform dedicated to connecting and supporting the creative community. With a background in arts and culture strategy, Katy has worked across industries to bridge the gap between business and the creative sector.

Pearl and Katy discuss the evolving role of digital platforms in the art world, the importance of fostering creative networks, and how The Wick engages with artists, collectors, and institutions. They also explore broader trends in the global art market, the impact of technology on artistic...

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In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam sits down with art collector and philanthropist Billie Weisman in Los Angeles for an engaging conversation about her life, career, and contributions to the art world.

Billie shares insights from her journey as a prominent figure in the art community, reflecting on her collaborations with influential artists and curators, offering a glimpse into the relationships and inspirations that have shaped her work in the art world.

Pearl and Billie delve into the importance of collecting with purpose, the evolving role of art institutions, and the...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam meets with art journalist and industry expert Tim Schneider in New York to discuss his career, perspectives on the art market, and his impact on the global art community.

Tim delves into his journey as a thought leader in the art world, the creation of his platform, The Gray Market, and his analysis of emerging trends, market complexities, and transformative moments shaping the industry.

Their conversation covers the evolving intersection of technology and the art market, the significance of transparency in the industry, and the...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam sits down with drag superstar Jackie Beat in Los Angeles for an insightful and candid conversation exploring Jackie's career and the ever-changing world of drag.

Jackie shares the story of her rise to stardom - from her early days performing in underground clubs to becoming a celebrated figure in the drag community.

Jackie also opens up about her experiences working alongside iconic figures such as Joan Rivers, giving a behind-the-scenes look at the influence and inspiration she drew from such legendary collaborations. Pearl and Jackie...

In this episode, Pearl sits down with the renowned photographer, Magnus Hastings. Widely acclaimed for his work capturing drag queens and queer icons, Magnus has played an instrumental role in documenting the vibrant world of drag and its rise in popular culture. His photography not only showcases the glamour and artistry of drag but also celebrates the individuality and diversity within the queer community.

During their conversation, Pearl and Magnus delve into his journey as a photographer, discussing how he became involved in the world of drag and the impact his work has had on both the...

In this special episode for Miami Art Week, Pearl Lam sits down with Don and Mera Rubell, renowned art collectors and founders of the Rubell Museum in Miami.

As trailblazers in the contemporary art world, Don and Mera Rubell are celebrated for their commitment to nurturing emerging artists and building one of the most influential private art collections globally. The Rubell Museum, a cornerstone of Miami's dynamic art scene, is internationally recognized for its expansive and diverse showcase of contemporary works.

This conversation explores the Rubells' journey as collectors, their philosophy on art and patronage...

In this episode, Pearl Lam speaks with Henry Elkus, co-founder of Helena, a global organisation dedicated to addressing critical world challenges through innovative initiatives and collaborations.

Their discussion explores the transformative influence of reading in fostering critical thinking and creative problem-solving. Henry shares his journey as a young entrepreneur, reflecting on the challenges and rewards of building a venture from the ground up.

The conversation highlights the resilience and determination required to pursue ambitious goals and create meaningful impact on a global scale.

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam is joined by long time friend Dr. Amin Jaffer. Amin Jaffer is a celebrated art historian and expert in all things art and the curator of the Al-Thani Collection.

Pearl and Amin discuss the connections of Eastern and Western art traditions and talk about how cross-cultural dialogue continues to shape contemporary art practices.

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In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam engages in a thought-provoking conversation with her friend Basma Al-Sulaiman, the founder of BASMOCA (Basma Al-Sulaiman Museum of Contemporary Art).

They dive deep into the dynamic role of women in Saudi Arabia, highlighting the remarkable advancements Saudi women are achieving in the arts and cultural spheres. Their discussion also uncovers the latest trends shaping the global art world, with a particular emphasis on the impact of digital art spaces.

Basma shares insights into how these spaces are revolutionising art creation, sharing, and experiencing globally, offering...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam sits down with Josh Baer, renowned art advisor and founder of The Baer Faxt. Together, they dive into the dynamic world of contemporary art, exploring current market trends and the ever-changing landscape of art collecting.

With decades of experience guiding top collectors and artists, Josh provides valuable insights into the evolving role of the art advisor and offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the forces shaping today's art world.

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In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam sits down with the celebrated portrait artist Jonathan Yeo. The two discuss the world of contemporary art, technological advancements and public scrutiny.

Known for his masterful portraits of high-profile figures and his innovative approach to painting, Jonathan shares his thoughts on the evolving art scene, the creative process behind his work, and his experiences capturing the essence of his subjects.

About Pearl Lam (林明珠): Pearl Lam (林明珠) is a gallerist and cultural influencer and is a leading authority on Asian art and the global contemporary art market...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, host Pearl Lam welcomes Jan Dalley, the esteemed Arts Editor of the Financial Times, for an in-depth exploration of the arts and culture sector. With over 15 years of experience as a leading figure in arts journalism, Jan offers a wealth of knowledge and insights.

Her impressive career includes pivotal roles as both literary and arts editor, not only at the Financial Times but also at the Independent on Sunday. Together, Pearl and Jan discuss the shifting landscape of global arts journalism, the challenges facing the industry, and the ways...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl has an inspiring conversation with Seoul-based visionary designer Kuho Jung. Kuho shares the captivating story of his creative journey, beginning with his unexpected start by opening a bar, to working at Samsung, and eventually taking the bold step of launching his own acclaimed fashion line.

A true trailblazer in the world of fashion, Jung Kuho’s brilliance reaches far beyond the runway. His creative influence spans theatre, dance, and even curating, making him a multifaceted artist who has shaped the artistic landscape in profound ways. His in...

In this episode, Pearl sits down with DJ Raiden in his Seoul studio to delve into the evolution of his unique sound and remarkable journey. Starting as a classically trained guitarist, Raiden transitioned into the world of electronic music, quickly rising to become one of the most sought-after DJs and producers in the global music scene.

Throughout their conversation, DJ Raiden shares valuable insights into his creative process, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how he crafts his signature sound.

As they dive deeper, Raiden reflects on the role that Seoul's vibrant culture plays in shaping...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl welcomes Mei Chen into her London home. As the Head of Luxury and Fashion for the Globalisation Business at The Alibaba Group, Mei shares her insights on technology, work ethic, and the evolving landscape of the commercial world.

Known for her pivotal role in bringing luxury brands to China through cutting-edge innovations, Mei offers a unique perspective on the intersection of fashion and technology.

In this episode, Pearl sits down with Melissa Chiu in her New York studio for an in-depth conversation about the differences between contemporary art and conceptual art, bridging the gap between East and West and much more.

Melissa Chiu is a renowned curator and museum director known for her deep expertise in contemporary art and her dedication to bridging Eastern and Western art practices. As the director of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, Melissa has significantly expanded the museum's global influence, curated groundbreaking exhibitions, and encouraged dialogue between diverse cultural perspectives.

This week, Pearl Lam talks to Philip Colbert about his early life, illustrious career and his connection to lobsters. Philip Colbert, dubbed the "godson of Andy Warhol," shares his unique perspective on the fusion of fun and fine art.

Renowned for his larger-than-life lobster persona and immersive art experiences, Philip discusses his creative process, the influence of digital media on contemporary art, and how he pushes the boundaries of traditional art forms to create a dynamic and interactive experience for his audience. Subscribe and turn on notifications to never miss an episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast.<...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl engages in a compelling conversation with renowned architect Kulapat Yantrasast. From his beginnings in Bangkok to his transformative training under the legendary Tadao Ando in Japan, and now his influential work in Los Angeles, Yantrasast shares the journey that has shaped his unique approach to architecture. Pearl delves into the philosophies and experiences that drive Yantrasast's designs, offering listeners an opportunity to discover the stories behind some of his most iconic projects. Yantrasast discusses how his diverse cultural background and professional experiences contribute to his ability to create spaces that...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, host Pearl Lam is joined by Nadja Sayej, a seasoned fashion journalist, author, and art critic based in New York City. With a dynamic career spanning 15 years, Nadja has conducted over 1,000 celebrity interviews, engaging with prominent figures like Salma Hayek, David Lynch, and Jean Paul Gaultier. Her rich background includes nearly a decade in Berlin as an art critic and foreign correspondent, where she covered a vast array of events from red carpets to Paris Fashion Week, as well as numerous exhibition and museum openings. In this episode, Pearl and Nadja...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam visits the Brooklyn studio of renowned artist Leonardo Drew. Join Pearl and Leonardo as they delve deep into Leonardo's remarkable artistic journey, exploring his evolution from early childhood creations to his breathtaking public art exhibitions. The two discuss everything from the political nature of art, Chinese ancient and contemporary art, the use of natural materials in Leonardo's work and much more.

To learn more about Leonardo visit: https://www.pearllam.com/artist/leonardo-drew/

In this episode, Pearl Lam and Malcolm Clarke delve into the intricate dynamics between China and the West through the lens of objective filmmaking. Malcolm Clarke, a celebrated documentarian known for his incisive and thought-provoking works, shares his experiences and insights into navigating the cultural complexities and political landscapes inherent in his cinematic endeavors.

The conversation offers a deep dive into Clarke's unique approach to illuminating societal issues, providing a fresh perspective on global relations. Pearl and Malcolm explore Clarke's commitment to objectivity in his filmmaking, examining the challenges he faces in maintaining neutrality amid polarised discussions...

In the latest episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl Lam and Dominic Ng take part in a fascinating discussion. Dominic Ng has been the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of East West Bank for the last 32 years. He has received numerous accolades for his business achievements and philanthropic endeavours, contributing significantly to cultural understanding between American and Asian communities. During their discussion, the pair delve into topics including Dominic Ng’s appointment by President Biden as the chair of the 21-nation business council. He complied a 54-page report addressing global crises such as climate change and encroaching cyber se...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl engages in an insightful and inspiring conversation with renowned restaurateur and visionary Mourad Mazouz. Mourad is the creative genius behind the highly recognisable London restaurant, sketch, a destination famed not only for its culinary excellence but also for its vibrant fusion of art, design, and music. sketch stands out in the crowded London dining scene for its eclectic interior, designed to offer patrons an immersive experience that transcends the typical restaurant visit. Each room within sketch boasts its own unique aesthetic, from the playful Gallery, lined with art exhibits, to...

In the latest episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl engages in a captivating conversation with Judith Regan. As a distinguished TV host, publisher, writer, and editor, Judith Regan has collaborated with some of the most influential figures of our time, including Howard Stern, Rush Limbaugh, and Gregory Maguire. Notably, she conducted one of the most controversial interviews in history with O.J. Simpson.

During their discussion, Pearl and Judith delve into the highs and lows of Judith's dynamic career. They explore her pivotal role in bringing the renowned novel "WICKED" to the public, shedding light on...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, Pearl interviews David Barboza about the complex relationship between China and the US and his experiences as a Western journalist living in China. They delve into the current state of China-US relations, with David sharing fascinating stories from his time in China, including visits to US-sponsored manufacturing factories and in-depth journalistic investigations.

David Barboza is an award-winning American journalist who won the Pulitzer Prize for International Reporting and Explanatory Reporting while serving as a foreign correspondent for The New York Times. In April 2020, he co-founded The Wire China, a...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, award-winning film director, Ray Yeung, discusses his career with long-time friend, Pearl Lam. Ray Yeung is a distinguished screenwriter and independent film director renowned for his poignant exploration of gay narratives. With a career marked by a profound dedication to telling authentic stories, Yeung has become a luminary in the realm of cinema. In this episode, Pearl Lam learns about Ray Yeung’s winning of the prestigious Teddy Award for Best LGBTQ-themed Feature Film. Ray Yeung’s new Hong Kong drama film, ‘All Shall Be Well’, was recently officially released on May 1st...

In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, John Lim shares his reflections on Singaporean culture and the role of plants in influencing his unexpected career change.

John Lim is the founder of This Humid House, a botanical design studio founded in Singapore that is committed to developing a language expressed through plants and flowers. The studio has shaken up the floristry industry in Singapore with its non-conformist work.This Humid House, has made a name for itself with designs created for luxury brands such as Kenzo, Cartier, Franck Muller and many others.

Pearl and...

Élise Gonnet-Pon is the Managing Director France - Europe of L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts. Élise has been with Van Cleef & Arpels for over 20 years and has overseen the development of high-jewelry collections. Following this, Élise moved over to education.

L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts was established in 2012 in the heart of Paris with a commitment to inclusivity and a passion for the world of jewelry. In this episode, Élise Gonnet-Pon sits down with Pearl Lam to shed light on the institution's visionary plans for the future. With a steadfast commitment to preserving the legacy of an anci...

Suhair Khan is a creative leader and entrepreneur with a background in culture and technology. In 2021, Suhair founded Open-Ended Design, a platform that serves as a creative incubator and research lab for emerging tech and AI. Khan's belief in the positive impact of the intersection between technology and culture drives her mission to expand the idea of technology and AI as a hopeful force in the world.

Suhair Khan has a diverse range of roles, including chair of the board of trustees of dance choreographer Studio Wayne McGregor, and is on the advisory committees to the Design...

In this episode host Pearl Lam sits down with acclaimed British artist Maggi Hambling for a revealing discussion about Maggi’s life and career ahead of the launch of Maggi Hambling: The Night, a solo exhibition by Maggi Hambling at Pearl Lam Galleries, Printing House, 6 Duddell Street, Central, Hong Kong, from 26 March to 16 May 2024. The exhibition also coincides with Art Basel Hong Kong 2024, where Pearl Lam Galleries will also be exhibiting Maggi’s work.

Maggi Hambling occupies a unique position as an artist who has consistently embraced a spirit of rebelliousness throughout her career, making her...

Food has always been a conduit of culture and community, and chef and artist Imogen Kwok redefines all that food can be.  In this episode of The Pearl Lam Podcast, the food stylist, fashion icon and artist tells Pearl Lam about how she paired her keen artistic eye with her love of working within a kitchen environment to create her career as a “food artist”.

Classically trained in culinary school, Imogen works across cuisine, art and design and is known for creating visually striking culinary experiences. Imogen merges her professional training as chef with a raw art...

Pearl Lam sits down with acclaimed British artist Maggi Hambling for a revealing discussion about Maggi’s life and career ahead of the launch of Maggi Hambling: The Night, a solo exhibition by Maggi Hambling at Pearl Lam Galleries, Printing House, 6 Duddell Street, Central, Hong Kong, from 26 March to 16 May 2024. The exhibition also coincides with Art Basel Hong Kong 2024, where Pearl Lam Galleries will also be exhibiting Maggi’s work.

Maggi Hambling occupies a unique position as an artist who has consistently embraced a spirit of rebelliousness throughout her career, making her one of the most...