Encore Values: Get front and centre for the Hong Kong Arts Festival, shaper of the cultural landscape

The Hong Kong Arts Festival (HKAF) has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural scene for over half a century. Celebrating its 52nd edition this year, it continues to captivate audiences with diverse and world-class performances. The month-long cultural feast will see more than 1,400 outstanding international and local artists delivering over 150 performances of music, theatre, dance, opera and more. Additionally, Festival Plus as well as outreach and education events account for another 350 engaging arts activities.

The festival proper begins with the classics, as the Bavarian State Opera performs Richard Strauss’s 1912 opera Ariadne auf Naxos on 22 February, and closes on 22 March with a modern ballet, A Sigh of Love, devised by a Sino- French creative team for the Shanghai Ballet. As Kingman Lo, Vice-Chairman of the Hong Kong Arts Festival Society, says: “The 52nd edition of the HKAF will continue our legacy of offering a broad spectrum of the world’s best artists and performances, enticing the Hong Kong audience with an irresistible blend of timeless classics and groundbreaking new works.”

One of the key highlights of this year’s festival is the appearance of five-time Grammy Award- winner Angelique Kidjo. Over the course of a remarkable career spanning more than 40 years, the powerhouse diva has introduced the world to the essence of Africa. For her outstanding musical accomplishments and efforts, she was most recently granted the Polar Music Prize. With the promise of an evening filled with joyful music and the beautiful sounds of the African diaspora, Kidjo’s Mother Nature tour is now making its way to Hong Kong.

HKAF Executive Director Flora Yu also underscores the importance of showcasing contemporary pieces at the annual festival. “We make it our mission to introduce to Hong Kong audiences a fascinating line-up of daring and innovative new works which hold the promise of becoming canonical works of tomorrow,” she says. “In addition, we continue to present a variety of brilliant local works featuring some of the best Hong Kong artists.”

By putting the future on the canvas of the past, Van Gogh in Me is an immersive audio-visual experience that significantly pushes the limits of the conventional concert experience. Van Gogh and Klimt’s brushstrokes are transformed into a state-of-the-art performance experience by the Netherlands Chamber Choir’s resonant purity of sounds and emotions combined with real-time technology.

Back at Full Volume

This year’s festival marks a return to form after several lean cultural years that left Hong Kong arts enthusiasts starved of live international performances. “We are pleased to be able to present our 52nd Festival on a large scale after emerging from a three-year pandemic and staging the previous 51st Festival in semi-recovery mode,” notes Yu. This ramp-up is reflected in the HKAF’s overall budget which is anticipated to be about HK$150 million in the 2023-2024 financial year.

The festival has historically relied heavily on fundraising, and its goal for 2024 is that contributions and pledges from institutional and individual donors and benevolent foundations will account for about 48% of its total revenue. The Hong Kong Jockey Club, for example, has consistently supported the event since its inception. A further 25% of funds will come from the box office, while a recurring subvention of HK$18.89 million from the Hong Kong Government equates to about 12% of the yearly revenue. A possible additional government grant to match donations and sponsorship, and other revenue streams will comprise the remaining 15%.

Lasting Legacy

The Hong Kong Arts Festival was founded in 1973 with the aim of showcasing exceptional artistic talent from around the world while nurturing local creativity. Over the years, it has become one of Asia’s premier arts events, consistently attracting renowned international artists and troupes and earning a reputation for excellence.

By bringing together artists from diverse cultures and genres, the festival has fostered a vibrant exchange of ideas and artistic collaborations. It has encouraged local artists to push boundaries and experiment with new forms of expression, leading to the emergence of unique and innovative performances. Moreover, the festival’s influence extends beyond its annual program to actively engage with the community. Through educational initiatives, workshops and masterclasses, it nurtures the next generation of artists and cultivates an appreciation for the arts among students and the general public. These efforts have contributed to the growth of Hong Kong’s artistic ecosystem and the development of a discerning audience.

Expanded Reach

Running alongside the main performances is the Festival Plus program that aims to enrich the experience of culture buffs from all walks of life. A diverse range of activities like talks, masterclasses and meet-the-artist sessions in performance venues and community locations boosts audience engagement. Highlights this year include a backstage tour of the Ariadne auf Naxos production as well as a fun-filled exhibition titled Unboxing Chinese Opera. In addition, there are outreach events and education programmes targeted at students to foster the younger generation’s interest in, and knowledge of, the arts.

Founded in 1992, the Young Friends of the Hong Kong Arts Festival initiative offers a variety of seminars, lectures and backstage visits to full-time students up to the age of 25, reaching a remarkable 820,000 budding arts lovers thus far. Members of Young Friends can experience two chosen performances and rehearsals during the festival.

In an effort to make the arts more accessible, the HKAF has expanded its presence across multiple venues throughout Hong Kong. Beyond the traditional theatre spaces, performances are held in parks, community centres and heritage sites. This approach aims to bring the arts closer to the public, breaking down barriers and reaching audiences who may not typically attend formal concerts or plays.

Embracing the Future

Organisers are focused on ensuring HKAF’s continued relevance and accessibility to the public by embracing new technologies and formats. Key initiatives include expanding the festival’s digital presence and incorporating digital elements like virtual reality experiences and immersive installations into its programming. Live streaming, on-demand performances and interactive online platforms enable individuals who may be unable to attend in person or prefer the convenience of experiencing the arts from their own homes to engage with the festival offerings.

With a storied past and a vision for the future, the Hong Kong Arts Festival continues to shape the artistic landscape of Hong Kong. As the curtain rises on the 52nd edition, it remains an indispensable platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, exciting audiences and inspiring generations to come.

Discover the most incredible auction items that broke records with their jaw-dropping prices

Four items that particularly stood out at this season’s auctions include an 11.28-carat fancy vivid blue diamond ring, a zitan ‘dragon’ compound cabinet, Sam Josefowitz’s masterpiece and Francois-Xavier Lalanne’s art. See how each attracted ground-breaking bids.

Brilliant Blue

Infinitely irresistible diamond ring

A superb 11.28-carat radiant-cut fancy vivid blue diamond set the auction house buzzing with its dazzling elegance, notching up one of the highest prices ever achieved for a diamond in Asia. The prized lot at Sotheby’s Hong Kong 50th Anniversary Autumn Sales fetched HK$198.2 million (US$25.3 million), with the house securing the three best-ever sales prices in Asia for blue diamonds – this one coming in third.

Praise for The Infinite Blue diamond, mounted in a diamond ring with brilliant-cut white and pink-tinged diamonds, was effusive, with Wenhao Yu, Chairman of Jewellery and Watches at Sotheby’s Asia, commenting: “[Its] beautiful blue hue, elegant cut and unique physical properties make it one of the most irresistible diamonds to appear on the market. It’s been an honour to have been entrusted with the opportunity to offer a diamond of such breathtaking beauty, its price attesting to the resilient demand for top-quality coloured diamonds amongst global collectors.”

Undoubtedly, part of the appeal of this magnificent diamond stems from its rarity, with less than 0.1% of diamonds sourced exhibiting a high-grade blue.

Household of the Blue Dragon

Emperor’s cabinet commands sky-high price

A massive zitan ‘dragon’ compound cabinet likely used by the Kangxi Emperor (1654-1722) attracted a dramatic two- way bidding war between a collector on the phone and an admiring fan at Sotheby’s auction house in Hong Kong. This superb example of early Imperial Qing furniture, which stands at a massive 3.7 metres high, finally went for HK$54.6 million (US$7 million).

The cabinet is infused with imagery carved into the silky zitan wood that adds to its allure. Dragons soar through the clouds in a display of symbolism that had deep meaning at the time, signifying imperial presence and power. Such is the quality of the workmanship displayed on the cabinet that only the most skilled artisans from one of the palace workshops under the command of the emperor’s household would have been tasked with the job.

Another reason for the impressive price – and the ferocious bidding – is that this sale represents the first time since at least the early 1940s that all components of the cabinet have been sold as one unit. The top left- and right-hand compartments had earlier been separated from the main body of this majestic piece and possibly passed inside the members of the same French family.

Quiet Reverie

Fauvist sensual embrace woos collectors

A strikingly colourful masterpiece from the art collection of the late tycoon Sam Josefowitz caught the eye at Christie’s auction house in London. Following frenzied bidding, the final price of Kees van Dongen’s La Quiétude was inflated to an astonishing £10.78 million (HK$102.3 million). This represented over twice the higher end of the estimate, such was the interest amongst enthralled onlookers in this oil on canvas laid down in 1918.

La Quiétude hit the block during Christie’s evening sales of 20th and 21st-century art in London, part of contemporary art fair Frieze Week. Typical of the Dutch-French artist’s Fauvist use of colour, the work was influenced by a 1913 visit to Egypt, where Van Dongen travelled down the Nile to Luxor and was struck by a sculpture of Ramesses II. Orientalism was in vogue, and the imagery of curvaceous bodies locked in perfect harmony draws on the erotism evoked in the Western mind at this time by the culture and civilisation of North Africa and the Middle East.

Dongen developed a great admiration for fashion designer Paul Poiret, who acquired La Quiétude direclty from Dongen.

Rare Beast

Lalanne sculpture smashes records

François-Xavier Lalanne’s masterpiece, Rhinocrétaire I, broke the world auction record for the artist at a recent sale by Christie’s in Paris. The eventual price of the almost life-size rhino sculpture-cum-functional furniture rose to €18.3 million (about HK$151 million), doubling the previous sum paid for a work by the artist.

François-Xavier Lalanne first exhibited this 1964 sculptural work in the presence of his partner and fellow artist, Claude Lalanne, at an exhibition called Zoophites. Made of patinated brass and bronze, zinc, brass, silvered brass, leather and natural wax, Rhinocrétaire I was considered by many as the standout item on display. Part of its charm is a homage to the fondness in 18th-century France for discreet drawers and hiding places. For instance, the beast’s hand-welded brass flanks contain a hidden safe as well as an illuminated desk.

Such was the enormity of the sale that the auctioneer, Cécile Verdier, Chairman of Christie’s France, commented: “A historic moment in Paris for this unique piece, which establishes François- Xavier Lalanne as one of the great sculptors of the second half of the 20th century.”

Umbrella Effect: A bespoke brolly remains a handy barometer of one’s standing in fashionable society

If an umbrella is the last thing you grab as you head outdoors in grey or blazing hot weather, then think again. It can be a treasured possession that not only shelters you from the elements but also defines your style – a fashion accessory of the highest order. There are a handful of artisanal brands offering deluxe or custom-made umbrellas, so why not invest in a rainy day? In the bustling streets of Hong Kong, where rain showers and scorching sunbeams dance in a delicate tango, a unique artistry unfolds within the realm of bespoke umbrellas. Like skilled maestros, the master craftsmen and women weave together threads of tradition, innovation and personalisation, creating a symphony of shelter that transcends merely functionality.

Carl Dagg

Sheltering from the rain is a breeze, Stockholm style, at Carl Dagg. Co-founders Carl Cyrén and Carl Samuelsson happened upon the last remaining Nordic umbrella factory, in Dalarna, northern Sweden, and began their line driven by the principles of classic design and Scandinavian aesthetics – simplicity and minimalism. The high- quality craftsmanship and sleek, straightforward design of their umbrellas means they are made to last and will always look sophisticated and timeless.

The shaft and handle are crafted from solid walnut, a material known for its strength and durability. The canopy, on the other hand, is made from an exclusive cotton-linen blend that provides excellent protection from the elements while maintaining the heights of sophistication. Whether you are walking to work from the MTR in the rain or strolling in the park in the summer, a Carl Dagg umbrella is the perfect accessory. Collections range from HK$1,400 to HK$1,600 with a higher estimate for bespoke items. carldagg.com

Pasotti

Another fine maker for a rainy day, Pasotti is renowned for bringing flair to handmade umbrellas. The iconic Italian brand has been synonymous with premium quality and exquisite designs since 1956. Their umbrellas stand out due to their creativity and continuous research in materials: think enamelled brass, Swarovski crystals and precious wood handles.

The company is headed by Eva Giacomini and was founded by her mother, Ernesta Pasotti, who had worked in an umbrella factory in Milan before returning to Castellucchio, 150 kilometres to the east, and opening her business in a country house. Aiming for exclusivity, it produces no more than 40,000 umbrellas a year, all of them beautiful, which are supplied directly to leading boutiques in 75 countries around the world. These luxury artisan umbrellas range from HK$1,500 to HK$5,500. pasottiombrelli.com

Il Marchesato

For a beautiful blend of functionality and design, Il Marchesato turns umbrellas into elegant essentials of daily life. The brand was born in 1978 in Saluzzo, a tiny town near Turin in northwest Italy but its seeds go back to a humble umbrella mender of the 1930s – the inspirational grandfather of founder Claudio Chiappero. Like its handmade wares, the company name nods to the noble marquises who ruled the land in ancient times.

The Marchesato umbrellas have taken the world by storm for their sophistication and originality, using precious Italian materials. The men’s Premium collection is crafted from top- quality jacquard fabrics or double fine satin and exclusive hand-painted 24-carat gold-plated or 925 silver-plated handles, while the prime women’s umbrellas feature double satin polyester fabric and 24-carat gold-plated brass handles embellished with crystals. They range from HK$1,500 to HK$3,900, though for those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, designs can be customised and personalised by request. ilmarchesato.com

Brigg

If you want to feel like royalty during a rainy afternoon stroll, Brigg – which has been supplying the British monarchy with bespoke umbrellas since 1836 – will help you live out the fantasy. Established by Thomas Brigg in 1817, Brigg & Co. merged with Swaine Adeney in 1943 and continues to provide umbrellas handcrafted from the finest wood and fabrics at its Cambridge workshops. One-of-a-kind pieces are made for clients all around the globe.

Their women’s umbrellas are lightweight and streamlined, with the handle formed from a solid piece of precious wood that is infused with steam to soften it for bending into a smooth curve. It is finished with a signature gold-plated or sterling silver collar. A full-sized Brigg walking umbrella – so-called as it doubled as a walking stick – was once the preserve of the English gentleman. They remain part of the contemporary wardrobe, on hand to provide years of reliable service. Prices range from HK$2,800 to HK$9,100. swaine.london

Whether you spend most of your days in Hong Kong or travel frequently, you are going to have to face some gloomy skies, damp days or the glaring sun. From blazing heat to drizzling dreariness to torrential downpours, it’s time to regard the umbrella as the elegant design statement it can really be.

So let’s raise our bespoke umbrellas high, embracing the fusion of tradition and innovation, and honouring the artisans who breathe life into these functional works of art. In a world that can be unpredictable, these marvels offer a glimpse of timeless elegance, reminding us that even amidst the storms, we can find shelter, grace and beauty.

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What’s on? Things to do this December in Hong Kong

A December to remember! Make it merry and bright this month with Hong Kong’s month-long of events and festivities. A Tale of Three Cities, Convergence, Heritage Roving Exhibition, Hong Kong International Darts Festival, Clockenflap and many more.

Clockenflap

The 13th edition of the Clockenflap Music and Arts Festival brings a slew of top-ranking performers to the Central Harbourfront for three days. Headlining on the Saturday is an iconic group from the Brit-pop era of the ’90s, namely Jarvis Cocker and his Pulp bandmates. Other notable performers include Australian-Japanese singer-songwriter Joji, who is the star attraction on the following day during the last leg of his world tour, plus Japanese chart-toppers Yoasobi. The festival continues its ongoing commitment to promoting leading lights from Asia, like pop sensation Wednesday Campanella, and indie-pop duo Running Youth.

When: 1-3 Dec

Where: Central Harbourfront

How much: From HK$1,280

For more information: clockenflap.com

HK International Darts

Top local darts players and their overseas counterparts flex their wrist muscles over four days in this fifth edition of the international tournament. With the Parent-Child Sports Carnival held alongside the main competition, the large-scale event on the site of the old airport has many strands to attract sporting and non-sporting folk alike. A darts charity marathon and more than 300 booths will keep everyone entertained.

When: Until 3 Dec
Where: Kai Tak Cruise Terminal
How much: Free

For more information: hkidf.com.hk

Convergence

Action and arts fans will rejoice at the spectacle brought to the stage in this magnificent performance by Hong Kong Dance Company which gets to the heart of what Chinese martial arts and dance are all about. By exploring the synergy between both forms of expression, Convergence is able to deliver new interpretations as dancers wow the audience through their athletic prowess and sinuous movement. This is the live premiere of an award-winning production conceived and choreographed by the company’s Artistic Director, Yang Yuntao.

When: 8-10 Dec
Where: The Box, Freespace, West Kowloon Cultural District
How much: From HK$350

For more information: hkdance.com

Streetathon

This year sees the return of the much-praised Hong Kong Streetathon, an event that helped kick-start the local running culture. Through the organiser, RunOurCity, it is also committed to working with other charity foundations and NGOs to foster sustainable development. For the first time, a full marathon will wind its way through the city centre and round the harbour, and runners will power through 10km of the Tseung Kwan O-Lam Tin Tunnel. Other highlights: a cross-harbour half- marathon, Runners Expo and the Youth race.

When: 9-17 Dec
Where: Various venues
How much: Free viewing

For more information: streetathon.com

Herstory

Hong Kong Dance Company presents a performance that embodies the words and imagination of women. First produced in 2008, when it won two Hong Kong Dance Awards, HerStory is inspired by the 400-year-old language developed by women in China known as Nushu and brings to life the writings of two Hong Kong female authors, evoking memories through dance, music and imagery.

When: 15-17 Dec
Where: The Box, Freespace, West Kowloon Cultural District
How much: From HK$380

For more information: hkdance.com

Breaking For Gold

Dance enthusiasts are in for a treat with the Breaking for Gold World Series reaching its finale (on 15-16 December). About 200 of the best breakers from around the globe will seek to impress the judges and earn vital qualification points for the Olympic Games in Paris, while local participants will hope to draw inspiration from a supportive home crowd. Standard and Latin dancers will also compete in various championships as part of the Hong Kong Open.

When: 15-29 Dec
Where: Queen Elizabeth Stadium, Wan Chai
How much: Various prices

For more information: dancesport.org.hk

A Tale of Three Cities

Three museums unite for a showcase of silk, revealing how the precious commodity was exported from China to the world in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Trade paintings, fine silks, clothing, home fabrics and accessories feature among more than 100 sets of artefacts on view from the collections of the Guangdong Museum, the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Macao Museum as part of the third Guangdong-Hong Kong- Macao Greater Bay Area Culture and Arts Festival.

When: Until 17 Dec
Where: Hong Kong Museum of Art
How much: Free

For more information: hk.art.museum

The Impossible Trial

Returning with the original star- studded cast, this superb musical touches on powerful human themes that kept packed audiences enthralled during previous performances. Greed, pride, loss of wealth and the journey travelled to gain personal redemption are all explored in Hong Kong Repertory Theatre’s magnificent production.

When: Until 17 Dec
Where: Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre, West Kowloon Cultural District
How much: HK$360, $520, $680

For more information: hkrep.com

Heritage Roving Exhibition

The landscaping and greening attributes of 10 declared monuments and historic buildings dotted around the territory are highlighted at an exhibition touring public libraries this month. Organised to complement the Heritage Fiesta held this autumn, which had offered free guided tours of fabulous sites like Flagstaff House, the roving displays pinpoint the work and success of various initiatives to preserve these iconic buildings and thus Hong Kong’s past.

When: Until 29 Dec
Where: Various public libraries
How much: Free

For more information: heritage.gov.hk

UOB Art Academy brings art to heart and ink for all

Container terminals wins 2023 UOB Ink Art of the Year Award

UOB has announced the successful registration of UOB Art Academy (the Academy) as its inaugural charity in Hong Kong. With the motto ‘Art to Heart; Ink for All’, the Academy connects communities and touches hearts through art. It also strives to make Chinese ink art, a longstanding artistic heritage, accessible to the public.

Director of UOB Art Academy Limited, Christine Ip, who is also CEO, Greater China and Head of Group Strategic Communications and Brand, UOB, said: “Upholding the belief that art holds the power to transcend boundaries and spark conversations, we want to promote a more inclusive and compassionate society. Our new charity status allows us to leverage the collective strengths of our stakeholders to make a broader positive impact. We invite ecosystem partners, including corporates, artists, art educators, philanthropists and art enthusiasts from all walks of life to join us in this mission.”

Director of UOB Art Academy Limited, Mrs Christine Ip, who is also CEO, Greater China and Head of Group Strategic Communications and Brand, UOB, officiated the UOB Art Academy charity launch earlier, together with Ms Marietta Li, Head of Strategic Communications, Brand and Customer Insights, Hong Kong and Taiwan Head of Network Partnerships and Strategic Marketing, Foreign Direct Investment Advisory, Hong Kong, UOB

The Academy seeks to enrich lives and strengthen communities through its diverse range of programmes and initiatives. The following key areas underpin the organisation’s vision:

Fostering artistic heritage: Through curated art programmes, the Academy preserves and fosters the rich tradition of Chinese ink art, which holds timeless beauty and profound cultural significance.

Providing accessible art education: Through the Art in Ink workshops, the Academy provides learning platforms and resources to make Chinese ink art education accessible to both teachers and students of all skill levels.

Empowering artistic talents: The Academy supports artistic talents and helps them achieve their full potential. It offers programmes like the UOB Art in Ink Awards, We+1 Mentorship and Internship Programme and Artist for A Day, providing platforms for young talents to explore and pursue their artistic aspirations.

Facilitating Greater China-ASEAN cultural connectivity: Through long-standing art programmes like the UOB Painting of the Year competition, UOB contributes to the development of the art scene in ASEAN.

Art for social impact: The Academy aims to address important societal issues through art therapy and strives to create a more compassionate and equitable world through art.

Inspiring community engagement: The Academy collaborates with local institutions, organisations and art communities to develop community programmes like the Art in Ink Festival.

Mr Li Chik Keung wins 2023 UOB Ink Art of the Year Award

In conjunction with the incorporation of the UOB Academy as a charitable organisation, the 2023 UOB Art in Ink Awards Presentation Ceremony was held on the same day to recognise twenty artistic talents for their outstanding performance in ink art creation.

Mr Li Chik Keung’s Container Terminals won the 2023 UOB Ink Art of the Year Award and Gold in the Open Category – Landscape or Figurative. This captivating piece utilises monochrome tones and intersecting vertical and horizontal lines to create an interplay of density and sparsity. The artwork beautifully showcases the vibrant dynamism and order that characterise a bustling scene at a container terminal.

Container Terminals, Mr Li Chik Keung
2023 UOB Ink Art of the Year Award and
Gold Award, Landscape or Figurative, Open Category

Breakthrough, Ms Victoria Lin
2023 Most Promising Artist of the Year Award and
Gold Award, Landscape or Figurative, Senior Student Category

Ms Victoria Lin’s Breakthrough won the 2023 Most Promising Artist of the Year award and Gold in the Senior Student Category – Landscape or Figurative. This remarkable achievement marks Lin’s third win of the Most Promising Artist of the Year Award. She previously won the award in 2019 with her artwork Fish Tank and in 2022 with Let It Go. Breakthrough symbolises the determination to overcome obstacles while pursing one’s dreams.

2023 UOB Art in Ink Awards Winners’ Showcase

The 2023 UOB Art in Ink Awards Winners’ Showcase will be held at the Palace Academy, Hong Kong Palace Museum from 16 to 31 December 2023 (excluding 19 December). This exhibition is a significant component of the second edition of Art in Ink Festival, co-organised by UOB Art Academy and the Hong Kong Palace Museum. Apart from the exhibition, there will also be various activities including ink art workshops, immersive animated ink screenings, an interactive ink experience zone, art talks and artist studio visits. The Festival is open to the public.

Date: 16-31 December 2023 (excluding 19 December 2023)

Venue: Palace Academy, Hong Kong Palace Museum, 8 Museum Drive, West Kowloon Cultural District

Website: www.artininkfestival.com.hk

What’s on? Things to do this November in Hong Kong

Mark your calendars and see the amazing swim across Victoria Harbour or views flicks at the film festivals or absorb cultural offerings at museums, music festivals and dance performances this November.

New World Harbour Race

Against the superb and unforgettable backdrop of the Hong Kong skyline, this challenging swim allows competitors to test their mettle in the waters of Victoria Harbour. The cross-harbour race, which traces its roots back to 1906, is always a popular draw and welcomes thousands of avid participants from across the world. Swimmers on the day will commence from the Bauhinia Square Public Pier in Wan Chai and finish at the Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui. The quota for entrants this year has increased to 4,000 and there will be an elite International Race as well as hardy swimmers from across the Greater Bay Area taking the plunge.

When: 12 November

Where: Victoria Harbour

How much: Free

Muse Fest HK 2023

Explore the cultural delights on offer across various venues in the city’s history, art and science museums under the theme ‘Hong Kong H.A.S. Museums. All month there are multifarious events designed to broaden your horizons and understanding of mind-blowing subjects such as the wonders of science fiction as portrayed at an exhibition staged by the Hong Kong Science Museum. A two-day carnival entitled ‘A Fiesta of Imagination’ is a highlight. This is just one of a superb series of events and programmes across many venues which allow visitors to absorb knowledge and soak up culture.

When: 1-30 November

Where: Various venues

How much: Free

For more information: museums.gov.hk

The Great Gatsby

Hong Kong Ballet Artistic Director Septime Webre captures the essence of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, The Great Gatsby, in a wonderful portrayal of life lived to excess in opulent 1920s America – a tale of never-ending parties, unbridled greed and obsessive desires simmering not far from the surface in high-society New York. Performed against the backdrop of a steamy jazz-infused soundtrack and art deco sets by Tim Yip, dancers along with vocalist E. Faye Butler and narrator James Seol capture the spirit of the age.

When: 4-5 November

Where: Grand Theatre, Hong Kong Cultural Centre

How much: From $220

Jewish Film Festival

Asia’s flagship Jewish festival has gone from strength to strength and now offers a magnificently diverse range of films showcasing Jewish life. The number of filmmakers keen for their work celebrating the Jewish tradition to be showcased in Hong Kong has grown, with 21 features, documentaries and short films able to be enjoyed.

When: 11-19 November

Where: Golden Scene Cinema, Kennedy Town

How much: From $110 per film; all access pass HK$1,800

For more information: hkjff.org

Asian Film Festival

Watch some of the finest films Asia has to offer at various cinemas throughout Hong Kong. Almost 100 films will be aired during the festival, which has gained international recognition for the quality and breadth of its programme. In addition to locally produced features, regional selections from the far and near will be screened. Masterclasses and workshops will be staged by renowned filmmakers such as Shunji Iwai and Koji Yakusho, while eight directors including Taiwan’s Lee Hong- chi vie for the New Talent Award.

When: Until 17 November

Where: Various venues

How much: From $95

For more information: hkaff.asia

Pop Culture Festival

Hong Kong certainly has its own distinctive pop culture and a whole raft of acts will be performing throughout a festival that urges us to ‘Let’s Pop’. There will also be outdoor activities, thematic exhibitions and film screenings to bring back memories and conjure up masterpieces from Hong Kong’s golden era of Cantopop in the ’80s and ’90s. The festival highlights the progress over the years of local pop music, its creativity and its character.

When: Until 18 November

Where: Various venues

How much: Various prices

For more information: pcf.gov.hk

Killing TV

Interaction between art and television is the concept behind Killing TV, as 15 contemporary artists from a mix of backgrounds contribute to an exhibition that explores the cultural, psychological and social impact of the boob tube. A range of videos including performance art and sculptural installations as well as TV shows and commercials will excite the senses and stimulate memories from the past, present and the future while addressing television’s pervasive power since the 1970s.

When: Until 19 November

Where: Tai Kwun

How much: Free

For more information: taikwun.hk

Night Vibes Hong Kong @ Museums

As efforts to support the ‘Night Vibes Hong Kong’ campaign gather momentum, Hong Kong museums are offering special programmes to bolster evenings out around town. The Hong Kong Museum of Art presents a range of exhibitions and screens a romantic local film.

When: Until 26 November

Where: Hong Kong Museum of Arts, Hong Kong Science Museum and Hong Kong Space Museum

How much: Various prices

For more information: lcsd.gov.hk

Great Music 2023

Winding down this month is a series of concerts under the Great Music 2023 umbrella that has seen musicians from around the world gather in Hong Kong to perform a plethora of programmes catering to a wide variety of tastes. The eclectic musical mix concludes with some superb piano-centric performances. Cellist Yo-Yo Ma and pianist Kathryn Stott team up once again, youthful South Korean talent Seong-Jin Cho hits the keys during a stirring recital, and veteran Brazilian jazz artist Eliane Elias lets rip.

When: Until 28 November

Where: Various venues

How much: Various prices

For more information: lcsd.gov.hk

Under the hammer – Fab Four Auction Sales

Four breathtaking slots that wowed bidders at recent auctions are highlighted. These include a gorgeous vivid coloured diamond, a beautiful gilt-bronze monkey, a fantastic Ferrari and a landscape masterpiece.

Blue Beauty: Vivid coloured diamond takes bidders’ fancy

A famous blue diamond worn at the 2023 Met Gala by actress Priyanka Chopra Jonas instigated an intense bidding war at Sotheby’s, propelling the final price to balloon above US$25 million (HK$196 million). Laguna Blu, a rare pear-shaped fancy vivid blue diamond of 11.16 carats, had headlined a Bulgari high-jewellery necklace at the gala, but it was auctioned in Geneva as the original ring designed by the Italian jeweller in 1979, set between tapered baguette diamond shoulders.

The exceptional value of a vivid blue diamond reflects, in part, the extraordinary circumstances of their creation. These stones are formed deep below the earth’s mantle, and the disturbance of the crystal lattice is critical in determining their colour. Any traces of boron within the pure carbon structure of the diamond will result in varying shades of blue – enough boron in the stone and the diamond attains the highly prized ‘vivid’ category. Less than 1% of stones achieve this colour, and fewer still have no tint of another colour as coloured diamonds often show some kind of tint of another colour. The price the diamond achieved at auction is an indication of its rareness.

Bronze Prize: Million-pound monkey sitting pretty

A beautiful gilt-bronze monkey by François-Xavier Lalanne fetched £1.25 million (about HK$12.3 million) at auction in London with bidders stirred by the rare opportunity to obtain one of the French sculptor’s iconic animals. Singe Alternatif SIII was created in 2007, a year before Lalanne’s death, and was one of two Singe (Monkey) figures up for auction at Christie’s – his Singe Alternatif SIV realised just over £1 million.

Animal motifs were integral to Lalanne’s art and formed a substantial part of his oeuvre. Their symbolism captivated him, and he was particularly enamoured with the sheep and the monkey, which he would depict far from their natural habitats. His Singes, smiling serenely, sit atop tables and mantelpieces.

Lalanne developed a love for sculpture as a young man when, as a security guard at the Louvre, he would wander the Antiquities galleries and study the statuary of Ancient Egypt. It was from works like The Seated Scribe and Toth as a Baboon that he gained knowledge and inspiration which undoubtedly shaped his sculptural vocabulary. Only two gilt-bronze pairs of Singes have previously been offered at auction, once in 2020 and again in 2022.

Street Art: Camden crescent masterpiece a big hit

A new auction record for a work by figurative painter Frank Auerbach was set at Sotheby’s Modern and Contemporary evening sale in London. Mornington Crescent sold for £5.6 million (about HK$55 million), comfortably surpassing its high estimate of £4.5 million.

Painted in 1969, Mornington Crescent is considered one of Auerbach’s most epic and ambitious landscape works. At 101.4 cm by 152 cm, it is also one of his largest and is firmly rooted in both a geographical and psychological sense of place – in this case, the street in Camden, north London, where the artist has his studio. Scaffold-like bars of paint form rigid structures dramatically conveying a recreated image of the urban environment.

The 92-year-old Berlin-born British painter had a good evening at the ‘Britain’s Visionaries’ auction. All three of his works up for grabs exceeded their estimates: besides the lively bidding that Mornington Crescent sparked, E.O.W. on her Blue Eiderdown VII fetched £4.5 million and J.Y.M. Seated II went for £1.1 million. He has long been fascinated by the subject of Mornington Crescent and the housing developments which started in the 1820s.

Horse Power: Rare Ferrari races to auction record

The sale of a 1967 Ferrari 412P Berlinetta was a major coup for Bonhams Cars, notching up a whopping US$30.25 million (about HK$237 million). About 1,000 people jostled in the Quail Lodge & Golf Club grounds in Carmel, California, for the best view of a racing car that became the fourth most valuable Ferrari sold at auction and raked in the highest-ever price for Bonhams’ motoring division.

Part of its appeal was undoubtedly its rarity – only two 412Ps were built from scratch. Furthermore, a nine-year-long renovation project restored this beautiful vehicle to its original glory so it could hit the open road. “Thanks to its devoted lineage of owners and the stewardship of its seller, the 412P stands as an enduring piece of art that honours the Ferrari legacy,” commented Bonhams specialist Rupert Banner.

The car has a strong racing history, roaring to third-place finishes in 1967 at Le Mans and the 1000 km of Spa, and seventh spot at Brands Hatch. The following year, it triumphed at the Norisring Nuremberg 200, Solituderennen and Swedish Grand Prix. The car comes with a 5-speed manual transmission and 4-wheel disc brakes.

Strokes Of Genius: 50 years after his passing, the art world muses on Picasso’s magic and missteps

The man, the myth, the misogynist – just three of the few words that best describe Pablo Picasso, one of the world’s most celebrated artists of modern times. The many sides of his life and work come under the spotlight this year as institutions around the globe mark the 50th anniversary of the Spanish artist’s death.

Given that he was originally thought to have stolen the Mona Lisa, it’s safe to assume that the co-founder of Cubism endured early troughs among the peaks of his path to fame. Improbable though it may sound, Picasso was a prime suspect when Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece vanished from the Louvre in 1911. The picture was later found to have been stolen by a former museum employee, but not before Picasso was cast in a doubtful light. It was a low point in what would become a dazzling, high-profile career.

Ever prolific, Picasso created tens of thousands of works of art, experimented with a bewildering variety of styles, and never stopped innovating. His legacy is still exciting and inspiring to artists and art enthusiasts everywhere, and tributes abound half a century after his passing.

The governments of Spain and France, where he spent most of his adult life, have partnered for Célébration Picasso 1973-2023, which embraces some 50 exhibitions and events in Europe and North America. Hong Kong joined in the remembrance by showing a glistening selection of his masterpieces in an intriguing medium.

Sotheby’s, which has championed some of the happenings in this timely retrospective of his work and life, highlights Picasso’s formidable influence as the resident artist of the 20th century – an idiosyncratic eye refracting the turbulence, traumas, dreams and visions of his times into stunning visual statements that challenged convention and still pulsate with energy today.

Naturally, the Musée National Picasso-Paris is central to the year-long salute; it has already held one tribute show masterminded by British designer Paul Smith, while another from French conceptual artist Sophie Calle begins in October. It also opens a Centre for Picasso Studies in the prestigious and newly renovated quarters of Hôtel de Rohan, a short walk from the museum’s equally storied building in the Marais district. This unique resource for the artist and his subjects combines documentation, a library and archives around a research centre and a digital gateway.

Period pieces

When Picasso passed away in 1973, at the age of 91, it was discovered that he kept pieces from all his periods in his 78-year oeuvre. It took seven years to complete an inventory of his works in all media, and many held by his family landed in the hands of the French authorities as payment for inheritance taxes. It was this initial body of work that enabled the Musée National Picasso-Paris to open its doors nearly 40 years ago.

Olivier Widmaier Picasso, the artist’s grandson, gathered exclusive testimonies, historical records and personal photos from this time to make a new documentary entitled Picasso, The Legacy. Sponsored by Sotheby’s, it is an intimate exposure of the man and the splendour of his artistry.

Bohemian romance

Another way to glean more about the artist’s life is through ‘Picasso’s Montmartre with Le Meurice, Celebrating 50 Years’, an experience that combines an overnight stay at the grand hotel in Paris with a guided walking tour that propels art enthusiasts back in time to the hedonistic, bohemian era of the Belle Époque. When Pablo Picasso married Russian ballerina and early muse Olga Khokhlova in 1918, the wedding reception was held at the hotel and it was the season’s biggest affair.

Le Meurice’s expert guide succeeds in opening minds to the romance and derring-do of the youthful non-conformist in the early 1900s. When he first arrived in Paris, Picasso was regarded with suspicion as a foreigner and watched by the French police for his supposed anarchist leanings. During the walk, anecdotes are shared and landmarks are highlighted while tracing his ootsteps through the cobblestone alleyways of Montmartre where he once lived and painted.

Changing with the ages

More than five decades later, in 1961, Picasso married Jacqueline Roque, the face that launched more than 400 portraits completed in the dozen years before his death. Museum Casa Natal Picasso in Málaga, Spain – the artist’s hometown – stages The Ages of Pablo, a chronological and stylistic overview of works from his formative years to the time spent with his second wife.

Picasso is revealed through his paintings, sketches, sculptures, ceramics and photographs, all of which have enduring value. Demonstrating his dynamic ability to convey life and emotion, the exhibition is divided into eight sections corresponding to the major phases of his art, including ‘Blue and Pink’, ‘Cubism’, ‘Classicism’, ‘Surrealism’, ‘Wartime’ and ‘The Joy of Living’.

Glass act

Here at home, Hong Kongers were able to join the momentous commemoration as a summer exhibition, Pablo Picasso: Paintings in Glass, threw light on some of his most-known painterly compositions. A collaboration between the University Museum and Art Gallery of the University of Hong Kong and the French May Arts Festival, it paid tribute not only to the iconic artist but also to the art form of gemmail.

A type of stained-glass mosaic developed by French painter Jean Crotti and perfected in the workshop of Roger Malherbe-Navarre, gemmail involves the expert assembly and melting of meticulously chosen pieces of glass. When Picasso first witnessed the gemmistes’ endeavour in 1954, he exclaimed, “A new art is born!” Enthused, he proceeded to layer shards of glass into graphical representations of more than 50 of his existing paintings.

The 50th anniversary of Picasso’s passing is, above all, a tremendous opportunity to honour his creative legacy while also challenging key events in his life, particularly his relationships with women who became his muses and lovers. “People were happy to be consumed by him,” his daughter Paloma Picasso, the jewellery designer, has said. “They thought it was a privilege. If you get too close to the Sun, it burns you. But the Sun can’t help being the Sun.” As evidenced by many of his life documentations, Picasso cared primarily for his creations, but what creations they were!

Photos: University Museum and Art Gallery, The University of Hong Kong

The Ocean Within: A compact abode becomes impactful with a mural that echoes the sea and inventive use of space

A home should be as expressive as its owners. Exuding a harmonious creative energy, this tailormade apartment at The Summa in western Mid-levels speaks volumes about the family who reside here. Its soothing character is punctuated by vibrant accents, and a striking artistic statement sets the tone for imaginative living.

Though compact at 1,000 square feet, the apartment is light and bright, with clever design elements and beautiful views of the city skyline instilling a feeling of openness. The designer, Danny Chiu Interior Designs, completely changed the developer’s original floorplan, customising the available space to match the taste and individual preferences of his clients.

The result is a cosy home for a couple and their two children who rejoice in each other’s company. Its functionality has been optimised to fulfil their requirements for an apartment with a defined personality that meets the specifics of their lifestyle and storage needs. Walls were removed and relocated to create an open-plan living-cum-dining area with an adjacent kitchen and to accommodate three bedrooms plus the maid’s room and three bathrooms – a feat of design ingenuity considering its modest measurements.

The décor was redesigned with an emphasis on art, colour and lighting effects. A tasteful blend of hues and textures, the interior palette brings a sense of opulence to a rather small space. Natural materials like pale wood for the floor complement the aesthetic wallpaper and ombré lighting. The focus was to inject the living space with an artistic expression, using a smart combination of both white and exuberant colours and carefully curated ambient lighting.

The highlight of the living area is an impressive oil painting patterned like the ocean that frames the far wall of windows – it spans the length of the ceiling in front of the windows and spreads down one of the adjacent walls, where it serves as the backdrop for a giant TV screen. On the opposite wall, above the sofa constructed on a pedestal, the artwork appears again in a three-panel design. Studded with lamps and paired with the layering of the walls, this extensive canvas lends an out-of-ordinary experience when first stepping into the home.

To contrast with and emphasise the mural, two similar yet varying shades of white decorate the communal space – pale white for the walls of the dining area and a grey-white hue to create a cooler ambience in the living area. A seamless row of custom-made fitted cabinets opposite the dining table is edged by vertical lighting, further brightening the dining area for enjoyable meals and family time.

The living area opens onto a small balcony where one can step out to get some air and enjoy the glowing lights from the city’s major landmarks at night. The dining area also has access to its own balcony, with the option to draw close or open the grey velvet curtains that serve as a regal backdrop to the table.

A narrow hall leads to the more private space of the apartment. At the end is the master suite, while the children’s bedroom and the guest room are opposite one another, with separate bathrooms for each situated side by side further along. In a master stroke to boost the size and storage area of the bedrooms from the original floorplan, the family’s two children enjoy a larger shared space that also allows for privacy. Vibrant colours and playful elements create an inspiring, cheerful environment for creative young minds to grow happily together.

The reconfiguration enables each child to have their own walk-in closet, their own desk set beside the window and their own sleeping quarters, which is raised above the floor and accessed by separate sets of stairs. The defining feature here is an archshaped installation of bright interwoven fabric that reminds of a tent. Covering the far wall above the window, it not only draws the two halves of the room together but also becomes the dominant element, filling the room with joyful colour and the spirit of adventure.

The master bedroom is, unconventionally, relatively small, but it serves as a functional yet welcoming space for the couple to enjoy some respite from their busy lives. Its wide bay windows offer a vast view of the Hong Kong cityscape and waterfront. The interior is kept minimal and the palette is more solemn here than elsewhere, though a feature wall exhibiting a similar artwork to that in the living room adds splashes of colour and a restful vibe.

A true reflection of the personality of its dwellers, this characterful abode abounds with vibrant colours and vivid themes amid expanses of white. Its distinctive features and creative design make it not only an inviting living space for the family but also an intriguing showpiece for guests.

Winners of “The Henderson Land Realising Your Imagination Creative Competition” Revealed

The winners of a competition organised by Henderson Land Group (“Henderson Land” or “the Group”) called “Realising Your Imagination Creative Competition” have now been announced and their work will be on display for public viewing from June 3 – 14.

The competition was designed to encourage communal imagination through creating multimedia artworks with inspiration from the Group’s contributions to the city.

A total of 17 awards were revealed at the award ceremony held on 31 May, with the participation of professionals from the architectural, design, art, and academic fields.

“The Henderson Land Realising Your Imagination Interactive Exhibition”, a free public interactive exhibition at H Queen’s will showcase the award-winning works and combine the experience of viewing art and collecting NFT souvenirs for the first time.

Through the fusion of digital art, a 270° immersive experience, Augmented Reality technology, and personalised NFT souvenirs, the 12-day art exhibition features artworks that depict future communities, cityscapes and lifestyles.

One part of the exhibition called “Immersive Space” offers a 270° immersive experience by taking visitors on a visual journey of the Group’s contributions to the city, such as the developed International Financial Centre complex and ArtLane.

At the “Web 3.0 Creative Space”, visitors will get a chance to create unique NFT souvenirs based on photos or videos of their AR-enabled interactions with winning artworks. The NFT souvenirs will be stored in the visitors’ Henderson Land NFT wallet.

The Champion artwork in the Student category was inspired by the concept of a time capsule, and a group of enthusiastic, dream-pursuing students crafted a story to depict an imaginative future, where their future selves read letters written by themselves in the present, so as to demonstrate how the future of Hong Kong becomes better with urban planning.

The Open Group’s Champion is a digital artist who took inspiration from ArtLane, Henderson Land’s first urban revitalisation project Urban Art in Soho. The awardee uses point cloud, VR and other technologies to conduct a memory exploration experiment for the audience. The artwork combines original music and the sound of waves to express the concept of coexistence between man and nature.

Winners were awarded art trips to Europe and/or cash prizes, together with a memorable and unique NFT e-certificate as a token of encouragement.

The public may utilise the AR filter at the exhibition and share their preferred future scenarios with the hashtag #RealisingYourImagination and tag @hendersonlandhk on their personal Instagram accounts. Participants will get a chance to receive a souvenir, while five participants with the most inspirational entries will each be rewarded with Matcha Latte Japan Premium Set from an F&B tenant at H Queen’s.

To discover more “Realising Your Imagination” moments, please click here to visit Henderson Land’s brand website.

The Henderson Land Realising Your Imagination Interactive Exhibition

Date: 3 – 14 June 2023

Time: 12 pm – 8 pm

Venue: 9/F, H Queen’s, 80 Queen’s Road Central, Hong Kong

Admission: Free admission with a chance to create an NFT souvenir (limited availability while stocks last)

Click here for more information.