Opening Programme of the New Premises of Hong Kong Arts Development Council - Exhibition
Hong Kong Arts Development Council's ( HKADC ) new premises, located at the upper ground floor and 5th to 7th floors, 39 Yip Kan Street, Wong Chuk Hang, officially opened in July 2023. Facilities including arts studios, a multi-purpose arts space "SHOWCASE", an arts information centre, and the permanent administration office of HKADC, gradually go into operation this year. HKADC is delighted to celebrate the official opening of the new premises with a series of exciting arts programmes from July 2023 to early 2024, including exhibitions, performances, workshops, docent tours, and various art activities, held within the new venue and the surrounding Wong Chuk Hang district, marking the beginning of a new chapter for Hong Kong arts.
Leveraging the rich artistic spaces and facilities within the new premises, the programmes aims to showcase the creativity and talent of local artists. Through interactive, educational, and innovative arts and cultural activities, the programmes seeks to foster connections among individuals from all walks of life. All are welcome to join our celebration, discover the richness of Hong Kong's art scene while exploring the new site together.
Established in 1995, the Hong Kong Arts Development Council ( HKADC ) is a statutory body set up by the Government to support the broad development of the arts in Hong Kong. Its major roles include grant allocation, policy and planning, advocacy, promotion and development, and programme planning.
The mission of HKADC is to plan, promote and support the broad development of the arts including literary arts, performing arts, visual arts as well as film and media arts in Hong Kong. Aiming to foster a thriving arts environment and enhancing the quality of life of the public, HKADC is also committed to facilitating community-wide participation in the arts and arts education, encouraging arts criticism, raising the standard of arts administration and strengthening the work on policy research.
The 1st phase of Opening Programme ( Exhibition ) successfully concluded. Please visit https://www.art-mate.net/doc/68185 for the programme details.
The opening programme of the Hong Kong Arts Development Council's new premises, Marginal Notes, is curated by Ying Kwok and jointly created by 11 units of local visual and media artists. The works cover multiple mediums, including textiles, installations, prints, digital art, drawings, and sculptures, delving into the past and present of the Wong Chuk Hang district.
Located in the southern part of Hong Kong Island, Wong Chuk Hang possesses a distinct character attributed to its natural geographical position, historical heritage, and urban planning directions. Over the years, it has undergone numerous transformations, resulting in a rich cultural legacy. This exhibition serves as a platform for artists to unearth hidden legends and anecdotes within the area. Like footnotes offering supplementary explanations, these different perspectives intertwine to reshape a more comprehensive community landscape.
Marginal Notes invites the public to embark on a journey of exploration and discovery, through the appreciation of artistic creations, to participate in and continue the stories of our city.
"Lost Landscape" Punch Needle Embroidery
[ Fringe Programme - "Lost Landscape" Punch Needle Embroidery ]
Artist Eastman Cheng invites the public to collaborate in the creation of the punch needle embroidery artwork, Lost Landscape. Inspired by historical maps of Wong Chuk Hang, this large-scale embroidery art piece evolves through public participation, constantly growing until the scene is ultimately revealed. Each completed piece showcases an aspect of urban landscapes of Wong Chuk Hang from different time periods. Your participation will contribute to the artist’s notes on Wong Chuk Hang’s ever-changing cityscape, and add a personal touch to the official maps.
"Marginal Notes" Exhibition - Daily Tour
How does an impression of a place manifest itself? Is it through government policies, or urban master plans? Or could it be portrayal in mass media?
Due to the geographical location, historical significance and policy decisions, Wong Chuk Hang has maintained its own unique pace of development and distinctive vibe. It features a remarkable blend of historical and contemporary buildings, a mix of diverse communities, spaces, and natural environments. The participating artists in this exhibition are invited to delve into the lesser-known facts, untold stories and unresolved myths about this area, akin to making marginal notes for a grand thesis.
Industrial Heritage to Cultural Hub: Wong Chuk Hang's Renaissance
[ Community Programme - Industrial Heritage to Cultural Hub: Wong Chuk Hang's Renaissance ]
Discover the vibrant metamorphosis of Wong Chuk Hang district on a captivating activity! Embark on a timeless journey through time as you witness the district's transformation from a former manufacturing and industrial area to a thriving hub of arts, lifestyle, leisure as well as business.
Participants will enjoy a leisurely stroll through the district, immersing themselves in the stories, architectural features, and historical evolution of former factory sites linked to local brands such as Vitasoy, Yan Chim Kee, and Tai Shing Paper.
For those interested in architecture, culture, and photography, this is an exciting experience not to be missed.
"Marginal Notes" Dialogue Series
[ Fringe Programme -- "Marginal Notes" Dialogue Series ]
Engage in a series of insightful exchanges as the participating artists and curator of Marginal Notes delve into their exhibition artworks and creative processes. These events are suitable for all.
Session 1: In-situ research
Speakers: Ying Kwok, Ocean Leung, Tang Kwong San & Yuen Nga Chi
For the works presented at the exhibition, artists Ocean Leung, Tang Kwong San & Yuen Nga Chi have been conducting in situ research at Wong Chuk Hang for months, documenting their findings and experiencing through photography. In this conversation, they will share this site-oriented creative process and their personal findings on Island South.
Session 2: Urban experience
Speakers: Ying Kwok, Mark Chung, Tap Chan
Artists Mark Chung and Tap Chan create works that depict the urban experience through lights. Their artworks intersect with each other at "Marginal Notes" exhibition. During this session, they will discuss with the curator extracting creative materials from the urban experience and exploring the multiple meaning of lights in their works.
Session 3: City interpretation
Speakers: Ying Kwok, Kong Chun Hei, Margaret Chu
Artists Kong Chun Hei and Margaret Chu magnify the features and meanings of bricks and tiles from buildings of various purposes. In this session, they will share their making and research process with the curator.
[ Fringe Programme - "Network 26" Bus Tour ]
Buses have long served as the primary mode of public transportation in the Southern District, catering to the daily commuting needs of residents from the World War II era to the industrial age. Led by artist Siu Wing Lam, the only local artist with a public bus license, participants will embark on an enriching, and adventurous road trip. Starting from Hong Kong Arts Development Council’s new premises, the bus tour will travel along scenic routes in the Southern District. Throughout the journey, Siu Wing Lam and guest hosts – artist and illustrator Apple Wong, and prose writer and bus enthusiast Tonny Tung, will introduce historical and cultural landmarks, discuss road conditions, and recite relevant literary works.
Discovering the South Island by Land and Sea
[ Community Programme - Discovering the South Island by Land and Sea ]
Explore the dynamic blend of old and new, and experience the charm of Aberdeen and Ap Lei Chau. Embark on a journey that encompasses both land and sea as we visit various landmarks and discover the unique allure of the Southern District.
The activity will visit Ap Lei Chau Main Street, where participants can soak in the local shops and the laid-back atmosphere. To culminate the experience, a traditional sampan will be boarded, allowing for a leisurely ride along the breathtaking coastline. En route, participants will have the chance to admire landmarks such as the Fish Wholesale Market and the Ap Lei Chau Shipyard, gaining insights into the traditional way of life and cultural customs of the local fishermen.
Participants will also visit two cultural venues in the area: The Warehouse Teenage Club (formerly the Aberdeen Police Station) with their historic background and architectural design and Hong Kong Arts Development Council’s new premises (located on the site of the old Aberdeen Fire Station) where they explore the latest local art creations.
Notes on Participation:
- Participants will travel outdoors between various locations. Participants are advised to consider their physical condition before making reservation. We apologise for any inconvenience this may caused.
Comfortable clothing is recommended.
- Participants shall prepare for enough water.
- Participants will travel by traditional boat (Sampan). It is recommended to get enough rest before boarding, and take medication at least an hour before departure if necessary.
- Due to unforeseen weather conditions, natural disasters, force majeure or other factors, safety conditions may be determined by the hosts. Adjustment of the event time, cancellation or postponement would also be possible.
[ Fringe Programme - Wong Chuk Hang Wanderlust ]
Artists Li Ning and To Kai On Benny, together with arborist Kit Yeung, will lead participants on a journey along the Southern District, exploring the various facets of nature and history in our city. The itinerary begins at the thousand-year old Rock Carvings at Wong Chuk Hang and continues with visits to the Wong Chuk Hang Old Village, World War II ammunition depot, Lady Clementi’s Ride and the waterworks monuments, among other landmarks associated with Hong Kong's history and myths.
Artists will share the inspirations and creative insights behind their artworks in the Marginal Notes exhibition along the way. Immerse yourself in nature, open your senses, and discover hidden treasures in the Southern District.
[ Community Programme - Wong Chuk Hang Arts Hopping ]
Discover the vibrant arts and culture scene in Wong Chuk Hang district as Jeff Leung Chin Fung, an independent curator and part-time lecturer, leads an exciting arts gallery hopping experience within the district. The itinerary includes the Opening Programme of the New Premises of Hong Kong Arts Development Council "Marginal Notes", along with other arts galleries and artist studios in the area. Engage directly with the artists and arts space hosts to gain valuable insights into their creative processes and inspirations.
Whether you're an art enthusiast, a curious explorer, or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the local arts community, this event offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the creative heartbeat of Wong Chuk Hang.