Arts in Hong Kong

By Georgina Straits


The easiest way to experience the enchantment of the Far East is through fine arts. Hong Kong arts are strongly influenced by both the Chinese and English. The local history is clear while on a trip to the historical and art collections as well as attending classical and operatic demonstrations.

Hong Kong Museum of Art

Due to Hong Kong's close geographic proximity, China seriously influenced fine arts in Hong Kong. The Chinese Antiquities Collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art boasts over 4,000 works of art ranging in age from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. The wealthy cultural heritage of China is represented in the ornamental and ritual items made of a range of materials such as bamboo, ivory, rhinoceros horn, bronze, jade, lacquer, and glass. The Chinese Fine Arts Collection features modern paintings representing different artistic styles and techniques preferred in the 20th Century and shows the adaption in the styles of Chinese artists. But maybe the best exhibit in the Hong Kong Museum of Art is the collection of historic images. The collection inspires a feeling of nostalgia for the outlandish wild sweetness of Hong Kong's deltas and harbors before industrialization.

Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware

Perhaps one of the most unusual ways of learning about fine humanities in Hong Kong is through a visit to the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware. Tea drinking in Hong Kong was a habit adopted from the Chinese however the Brit left their mark during their 150 year occupation. In the late 1800s, the first teahouses started to appear in Hong Kong. At first, folk purchased tea only to serve to guests however through time tea has become a frequent libation. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are attracted to the renowned collection of Yixing teapots. Hand sculpted from clay harvested from the city of Yixing in China, the teapots became well liked by scholars beginning in the 1500s. The museum also offers an interactive experience with tea gatherings for a really unique demonstration of Hong Kong arts.

Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra

The British in Hong Kong were influential in the city's music scene. The British brought with them Western classical music, which can often be enjoyed today at one or two venues. A show by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra is a must see for visitors. Not only will the orchestra play the important classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the mix of Eastern and Western music gives a special chance to appreciate the phenomenal history of Hong Kong.

Sunbeam Theatre and Ko Shan Theatre Operas

The Chinese influence in Hong Kong is also proof in opera performances. Opera originally debuted in Hong Kong in the Cantonese language. Cantonese operas are still held in the Sunbeam Theatre and Ko Shan Theatre. The opera is a coalition of conventional martial arts, acting, acrobatics, and music. Attending a 1 hour Cantonese Opera Appreciation Class at the HK Heritage Museum is highly commended for visitors to find out more about this unique art form. Experiencing the fine humanities in person is essential for an in-depth understanding of the Hong Kong's historic evolution.




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