The simplest way to experience the enchantment of the Far East is through fine arts. Hong Kong arts are affected by both the Chinese and British. The local history is clear 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 proximity, China seriously influenced fine arts in Hong Kong. The Chinese Antiquities Collection of the Hong Kong Museum of Art boasts over 4,000 pieces of art ranging in age from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. The wealthy cultural inheritance of China is represented in the ornamental and ritual items made of a variety of materials like bamboo, ivory, rhinoceros horn, bronze, jade, lacquer, and glass. The Chinese Fine Arts Collection features modern paintings representing different inventive styles and techniques preferred in the 20th Century and depicts the adaption in the styles of Chinese artists. But perhaps the best exhibit in the Hong Kong Museum of Art is the collection of historic photos. The collection conjures up a feeling of nostalgia for the glamorous wild sweetness of Hong Kong's deltas and harbors prior to industrialization.
Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware
Perhaps one of the most original ways to learn about fine arts in HK is through a trip to the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware. Tea drinking in HK 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 HK. Initially, folk purchased tea only to work to guests however through time tea has become an everyday drink. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are attracted towards the respected collection of Yixing teapots. Hand sculptured from clay harvested from the city 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 really unique demonstration of Hong Kong arts.
Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra
The British in HK were influential in the city's music scene. The British brought with them Western classical music, which can on occasion be enjoyed today at a few locales. A show by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra is a must-see for visitors. Not only does the orchestra play the historic classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the mix of Eastern and Western music gives a special opportunity to appreciate the remarkable 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 traditional martial arts, acting, acrobatics, and music. Attending an one hour Cantonese Opera Appreciation Class at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum is highly recommended for visitors to learn about this unique art form. Experiencing the fine arts in person is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the Hong Kong's historical evolution.
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 pieces of art ranging in age from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. The wealthy cultural inheritance of China is represented in the ornamental and ritual items made of a variety of materials like bamboo, ivory, rhinoceros horn, bronze, jade, lacquer, and glass. The Chinese Fine Arts Collection features modern paintings representing different inventive styles and techniques preferred in the 20th Century and depicts the adaption in the styles of Chinese artists. But perhaps the best exhibit in the Hong Kong Museum of Art is the collection of historic photos. The collection conjures up a feeling of nostalgia for the glamorous wild sweetness of Hong Kong's deltas and harbors prior to industrialization.
Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware
Perhaps one of the most original ways to learn about fine arts in HK is through a trip to the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware. Tea drinking in HK 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 HK. Initially, folk purchased tea only to work to guests however through time tea has become an everyday drink. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are attracted towards the respected collection of Yixing teapots. Hand sculptured from clay harvested from the city 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 really unique demonstration of Hong Kong arts.
Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra
The British in HK were influential in the city's music scene. The British brought with them Western classical music, which can on occasion be enjoyed today at a few locales. A show by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra is a must-see for visitors. Not only does the orchestra play the historic classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the mix of Eastern and Western music gives a special opportunity to appreciate the remarkable 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 traditional martial arts, acting, acrobatics, and music. Attending an one hour Cantonese Opera Appreciation Class at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum is highly recommended for visitors to learn about this unique art form. Experiencing the fine arts in person is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the Hong Kong's historical evolution.
About the Author:
Georgina Straits has been interested in Jacksonville fine arts for a few years. She has written op-eds and editorial pieces for many online publications. For more info about Jacksonville arts feel free to visit her site.
