Hong Kong Top Arts

By Georgina Straits


The simplest way to experience the enchantment of the East is through fine humanities. Hong Kong arts are affected by both the Chinese and English. The local history is evident while visiting 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 significantly influenced fine arts in Hong Kong. The Chinese Antiquities Collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art boasts over 4,000 works of art varying in age from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. The wealthy cultural history of China is represented in the decorative and ritual items made of a spread of materials like bamboo, ivory, rhinoceros horn, bronze, jade, lacquer, and glass. The Chinese Fine Arts Collection features modern paintings representing different artistic styles and techniques popular in the 20th Century and depicts 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 conjures up a feeling of nostalgia for the exotic wild sweetness of Hong Kong's deltas and harbors before industrialization.

Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware

Perhaps one of the most unusual ways to learn about fine humanities in HK is through a visit to the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware. Tea drinking in HK was a habit adopted from the Chinese however the UK left their mark during their 150 year occupation. In the latter 1800s, the 1st teahouses started to appear in Hong Kong. Initially, folk bought tea only to work to guests however through time tea has become a common libation. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are attracted to the respected collection of Yixing teapots. Hand chiseled from clay harvested from the town of Yixing in China, the teapots became popular with scholars starting 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 HK were influential in the city's music scene. The UK brought with them Western classical music, which can often be enjoyed today at a few places. A show by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra is a have to see for visitors. Not only does the orchestra play the historic classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the blend of Eastern and Western music provides a special opportunity to appreciate the exceptional history of Hong Kong.

Sunbeam Theatre and Ko Shan Theatre Operas

The Chinese influence in HK is also evidence 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 an alliance 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 learn about this unique art form. Experiencing the fine humanities in the flesh is vital for an in-depth knowledge of the Hong Kong's historical evolution.




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