MAP OFFICE is a multidisciplinary platform devised by Laurent Gutierrez (Casablanca, 1966) and Valérie Portefaix (Saint-Etienne, 1969). The artists/architects have been based in Hong Kong since 1996, working on real and imaginary territories using varied means of expression including drawing, photography, video, installation, performance and literary and theoretical texts. Their entire project forms a critique of spatio-temporal anomalies and documents how human beings subvert and appropriate space. Offering a new take on public space, they relate an adventure mixing myths and reality; a confirmation that art can create reality. Running counter to the local architectural circle, MAP Office’s mission is to bring forward a set of fresh alternatives to a region mainly preoccupied with “just-in-time” industrial production and efficiency.

MAP OFFICE has taken part in several international exhibitions, particularly the Hong Kong Pavilion at the 52nd Venice Biennale, 10th Istanbul Biennale, Prospect 1 at New Orleans, USA, 15th Sydney Biennale and at Center Georges Pompidou etc. Under MAP Book Publishing, the duo have published various books mixing humour, game and fiction.