Arts in Hong Kong

By Georgina Straits


The easiest way to experience the enchantment of the East is through fine humanities. Hong Kong arts are strongly affected by both the Chinese and Brit. The local history is obvious while on a visit to the historic and art collections as well as attending classical and operatic demonstrations.

Hong Kong Museum of Art

Due to Hong Kong's close geographic vicinity, China heavily influenced fine arts in Hong Kong. The Chinese Antiquities Collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art boasts over 4,000 pieces of art varying in age from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. The rich cultural history of China is represented in the ornamental and ritual items made from a variety of materials like bamboo, ivory, rhinoceros horn, bronze, jade, lacquer, and glass. The Chinese Fine Arts Collection features modern paintings representing different creative styles and techniques preferred in the 20th Century and pictures the adaption in the fashions of Chinese artists. But maybe the best exhibit in the Hong Kong Museum of Art is the collection of historical photos. The collection conjures up a feeling of nostalgia for the exotic wild wonder of Hong Kong's deltas and harbors before industrialization.

Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware

Maybe one of the most unique methods of learning about fine humanities in HK 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 latter 1800s, the first teahouses started to appear in HK. At first, people bought tea only to function to guests however through time tea has become a common beverage. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are attracted to the respected collection of Yixing teapots. Hand chiseled from clay cropped from the town of Yixing in China, the teapots became favored by scholars beginning in the 1500s. The museum also offers an interactive experience with tea gatherings for a truly unique demonstration of Hong Kong arts.

Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra

The British in Hong Kong were influential in the city's music scene. The English 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 does the orchestra play the significant classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the blend of Western and Eastern music offers a special chance to appreciate the exceptional 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 HK in the Cantonese language. Cantonese operas are still held in the Sunbeam Theatre and Ko Shan Theatre. The opera is an alliance of normal martial-arts, acting, acrobatics, and music. Attending a 1 hour Cantonese Opera Appreciation Class at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum is highly counseled for visitors to find out more about this unique art form. Experiencing the fine arts in person is vital for a comprehensive understanding of the Hong Kong's historical evolution.




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