Palace of Year: One year in, the Hong Kong Palace Museum has forged its own identity as a world-class cultural landmark

Enchanting and enriching 1.3 million visitors in its first year, Hong Kong Palace Museum is an unmissable addition to the Kowloon cityscape. From afar, the grandeur of its distinguished façade draws the eye. Inside its breathtaking space, 12 outstanding exhibitions have held court in as many months, each displaying a wealth of multimedia components, an innovative approach to curating, and a distinctive cultural perspective.

Also Read: Colour Harmony: Andrew Yuen’s Evolution From Boyhood Treasure Hunter To Guardian Of Culture

On the occasion of its first anniversary, the HKPM is well into its stride and looking confidently to the future. Since it opened its doors to the public on 3 July 2022, the museum has cultivated strong partnerships in the areas of academic and cultural exchange, in addition to showcasing some of the finest artefacts from its namesake in Beijing and other significant cultural institutions around the globe. Its presence has strengthened the dialogue between world civilisations and Hong Kong’s status as an East-meets-West cultural hub.

We are delighted to celebrate this important milestone. In the past year, the museum has brought moments of delight and amazement to the viewing public. We would like to express our deep gratitude to the Palace Museum for loaning such precious objects for display in Hong Kong, and to our donours and patrons for their generous donations and support. Kudos must go to our curatorial and operational teams for their professionalism and dedication. The museum has been empowered by the overwhelming support of the general public and visitors from around the world,” says Winnie Tam Wan-chi, Chairman of the Hong Kong Palace Museum Board. “We vow to continue to present exceptional exhibitions and programmes at the HKPM with the aim of promoting Chinese culture to a global audience, in accordance with the National 14th Five-Year Plan to develop Hong Kong into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.”

Beijing Assistance

The Palace Museum in Beijing, which houses an immense collection of classical Chinese art and artefacts, and the West Kowloon Cultural District joined hands to create the Hong Kong Palace Museum in 2015-16. The cooperation was announced in December 2016 and billed as a gift from the central government to mark the upcoming 20th anniversary of the return of Hong Kong to China.

As a result of the partnership, the Beijing museum lends items to the Hong Kong museum for both long- and short-term exhibitions. For those counting, a total of 914 items from the former’s 1.86-million-strong collection were secured for the HKPM’s inaugural shows.

The loan is the biggest granted by the Beijing institution since its founding in 1925 and features pottery, jade, bronze, costumes, jewellery, paintings, calligraphy and other national treasures – the majority showing in Hong Kong for the first time. The most priceless pieces appear for three months before being returned home to rest in accordance with established exhibition practice.
Hong Kong Exclusive

Despite the connection between the two organisations, the Hong Kong museum has forged its own identity. The HKPM team arranges loans from other esteemed institutions besides the Palace Museum. Upon its opening in July last year – one day later than planned due to a typhoon – more than 100 works borrowed from other museums and institutions in Hong Kong, as well as 13 pieces on loan from the Musée du Louvre in Paris, were invitingly in situ.

Multimedia creations from six local contemporary artists were also presented in its first exhibition, and ongoing efforts have been made to attract young people and foster an understanding of Chinese culture on a global scale.

The HKPM’s 84,000 square feet of exhibition space are spread across nine galleries over the seven-storey building designed by local architect Rocco Yim. Each gallery has a different topic, such as life, architecture, design, or art in the Forbidden City, where its Beijing counterpart is housed.

Now Showing

In the fifth three-month rotation of treasures on loan from the Palace Museum, 51 splendid works will be exhibited in Galleries 1, 2 and 5 until September 2023. Most pieces in this impressive display have not been seen in Hong Kong before and they aptly mark the HKPM’s first-anniversary milestone. They include two Grade One national treasures: a Ming-dynasty ewer resembling a pine tree and a Qing-dynasty brush pot shaped like a Chinese cabbage by renowned bamboo carvers Pu Cheng and Feng Xijue respectively. These extraordinary works headline the must-see show ‘The Quest for Originality: Contemporary Design and Traditional Craft in Dialogue’ in Gallery 5.

A recently acquired scene from The Grand Imperial Wedding of the Guangxu Emperor called “Presenting the Empress’s Investiture Book and Seal at the Hall of Union” is one of the highlights of ‘Entering the Forbidden City: Collection, Architecture and Heritage’, the presentation in Gallery 1. It is joined by the only surviving gold seal of an empress in the Palace Museum collection.

In Gallery 2, ‘From Dawn to Dusk: Life in the Forbidden City’ includes “The Maze”, a print from the Twenty Views of European-style Mansions in the Garden of Perfect Brightness series that showcases the magnificent scenery at Yuanmingyuan Park (the Old Summer Palace). This set of Qing-dynasty prints of the famed imperial garden reflects the integration of European and Chinese painting styles and landscaping features at the time.

A Gift that Keeps on Giving

A portion of China’s imperial treasures is housed at the National Palace Museum in Taipei, having been removed from the mainland during the civil war in the 1940s. The HKPM has been looking into potential collaborations with the Taiwan museum, but due to the latter’s rigorous policies regarding the loan of artworks and artefacts abroad, there are presently no plans to share collections.

However, for the recently minted Director of the HKPM Board, Andrew Yuen, introducing Chinese arts and culture to a wider audience fits his broader vision. “My hope for the Hong Kong Palace Museum still is to be the bridge between the other two ‘Palace-tinians’, between China and Taiwan,” he says.

Alluding to the museum’s genesis as an anniversary present to Hong Kong, Yuen adds: “I hope that Hong Kongers can make time to appreciate our rich Chinese culture. After all, the HKPM is built as a gift for us here in Hong Kong, so we should treasure it and feel special about having such a venue.

“From the moment you step foot in the museum, you will feel its grandeur and importance. This is really one of a kind. The plan, after all, is not to be a branch of the one in Beijing. The Hong Kong Palace Museum is really distinct from its namesake and we plan to keep it that way.”

Ultimately, the Hong Kong Palace Museum is a public venue that aims to incorporate art into everyday life rather than only being a place for those who study art and culture. It goes beyond.

Click here to visit the museum.

Colour Harmony: Andrew Yuen’s Evolution From Boyhood Treasure Hunter To Guardian Of Culture

It is a typical rainy, grey May day in Hong Kong, but inside Andrew Yuen’s luxurious Central apartment, clashes of gold, silver and everything in between envelop the cosy space. Silverware and sculptures from his many travels around the globe are gracefully displayed with personal touches like portraits of his parents and son, Anthony.

Among the many roles he has inhabited over a long and fulfilling career – Deputy Managing Director of Dayton Group, CoChairman of the Hong Kong Cancer Fund, Vice-President of the Society of the Academy for Performing Arts and Chairman of Le French May, which led to the title of Chevalier (Knight) of the National Order of the Legion of Honour, awarded by the French government – is a new commitment as Director of the Board of the Hong Kong Palace Museum.

“The thing about this new role is that I didn’t apply for it. I was appointed,” he says humbly, shrugging his shoulders as if it is some small matter. “Why me? Well, maybe because of my art collection?”

Indeed, Yuen is a long-time supporter and champion of the arts, all types of it, from visual to performing. His fascination with all things artistic was ignited at a very young age when he and his father would go “treasure hunting” – as young Andrew would call it – in antique shops along Hollywood Road and at auction houses as one of their weekend activities. Despite having pioneered the electronics industry in the city, his parents raised him and his four siblings to be self-effacing. A sensibility that he applies when bringing up a teenager of his own.

“I am always proud to say that I have the best parents. They just let us do what we want to do in life and explore whatever we like. But I think they also have this magic to bring us all back together. All five of us are now living here in Hong Kong,” he says, laughing.

Kendy Enterprise, the empire which Jack and Daisy Yuen built, was founded in 1958 as one of the early makers of transistor radios. Dayton Industrial was born in 1972 and nurtured into one of the world’s leading manufacturers of micro-electronic products such as heart-rate monitors, altimeter watches, e-bike HMI, sensors and parts for smartphones.

Shades of Success

“I feel very much at home when I am at the [Hong Kong Palace] museum. I could just talk about art all day,” says Yuen, grinning as he sips water from one of his collectable china cups. Later, on our way to the photo shoot location, he divulges that he and now Academy Award-winner Michelle Yeoh are good friends, and he was close to Princess Diana.

“These people are my contemporaries, not just in terms of age, but also as fans of the arts. However, my parents advised me that in order to look young and feel young, I must expose myself to younger connections. This way, I can keep up with change and not be stuck in my comfort zone.” he says.

He wears a traditional changsan, noting that he needs a birdcage and a fan to fully embrace the look. It is evident that while he is open to the current landscape, he still pays homage to his roots and appreciates his own culture. As a newly minted museum director, Yuen reflects on the evolution of the arts scene, particularly in Hong Kong.

“The hit musical Hamilton is a perfect example that art is inclusive and ever-evolving. Musicals now explore pop and rap styles of music. We really have to make art accessible everywhere, that’s the most important part. Hopefully, I can play a role in that. That’s why we are more ambitious than ever with the line-up for the French May Arts Festival.” he says.

He also shares that beneath the foundations of the Hong Kong Arts Centre in Wan Chai is a time capsule put there by six people – one of whom just happens to be him.

Hues of Happiness

Yuen’s vision for the Hong Kong Palace Museum vibrates with colour, movement and textures – just like a work of art. He says: “There are only three Palace museums in the world – in Beijing, Taipei and now in Hong Kong. So I hope that the one in Hong Kong will be the bridge between the other two “Palace-tinians” – between China and Taiwan.”

As a seasoned art collector, he reiterates that it is important to do your own research before purchasing. When you don’t know the market, it’s easy to fall for things just because they are buzzed about, especially on social media. “I recommend learning about art and artists online so the choices become your own,” he explains.

The adage that new collectors should spend a year looking and not buying rings truer than ever. While that may seem extreme, taking time to develop your eye is essential. Like many other things in life, it should be quality over quantity, too. He encourages art lovers to invest in fewer pieces that are of higher quality. Art is, after all, a purchase for life, so it is better to collect slowly with focus rather than to rush and take a more decorative approach. “Art should be something that talks to you,” he adds.

Also Read: Your Guide to Purchasing an Art Piece That You Won’t Regret

He is clearly very proud of the Hong Kong Palace Museum, and on a smaller, though still substantial level, the art in his home. His collection delves deep into a style and an artist through gorgeous masterpieces. Works of art, more generally speaking, impact society, fostering economic, racial and social justice and educational advancement.

His own Covid chronicle was both impactful and life-changing. Yuen caught the initial strain of the virus during the frightening pre-vaccine era. As many others who pull through serious illness would attest, it made him appreciate life even more than ever.

“Other than material things, I think what matters most is that we collect memories – memories that are precious yet priceless,” he says. “I am thankful that I always have the chance to be surrounded by family and friends. Above all the things here that glimmer and shimmer, the memories that I have, and am still collecting, will always be my number-one prized possessions.”

And so, like a rainbow in the sky, Andrew Yuen continues to colour his life with pure bliss and happiness.

Interview & Art Direction: Joseff Musa Photographer: Jack Law Fashion Stylist: Jhoshwa Ledesma Videographer: Jack Fontanilla Hair & Makeup: Heti Tsang

What’s On? Things to do this July in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Palace Museum opens, Mirror goes live, and much, much more! Get ready to fill your social calendar this July! A slew of new entertainment, concerts and exhibitions open its doors to the city. Here’s our guide to all the hottest happenings in town…

Mirror We Are Live Concern 2022

Hailed as the undisputed new kings of Cantopop, Hong Kong’s biggest boy band, Mirror, will be in concert in the city for 12 live shows from 25 July. Tickets for the first show were sold out within hours but with the addition of further shows, it’s still possible to snap up yours on Urbtix. Bop along to all their much-adored hits such as “Ignited”, “Warrior”, and all the others, as this 12-piece ensemble of heartthrobs strut their stuff.

When: 25 July – 6 August
Price: From HK$480
Location: Hong Kong Coliseum, 9 Cheong Wan Rd, Hung Hom Bay

Hong Kong Palace Museum Opens

Amid much fanfare, the HKPM opened its doors to the public on 2 July, adding to the buzz of the West Kowloon district. This important addition to Hong Kong’s artistic heritage boasts 914 priceless Chinese artworks. Many of the works from this veritable treasure trove of culturally significant works are on display in the city, while others are being displayed to the public for the first time. More than a hundred of the works on this list – including paintings, sculptures, calligraphy and pottery – are considered natural treasures.

When: July onwards
Price: Free entry on Wednesdays for the first year
Location: West Kowloon Cultural District
For more information: hkpm.org.hk/en/home

The Loss of Face?

Including masterworks from influential portrait painter, Francis Bacon, and paintings by contemporary artists Adrian Ghenie, Zeng Fanzhi, George Condo and Yukimasa Ida, Villepin’s new exhibition, The Loss of Human Face? sparks a conversation about the past and the present, and explores the significance of human faces as seen through these five artists. Showcasing 20 ground-breaking works in an innovative gallery space, visitors will endeavour to make sense of these bold and striking canvases displayed in dialogue with each other.

When: Ongoing
Price: Free entry
Location: Villepin, G-2/F, 53-55 Hollywood Road, Central
For more information: villepinart.com/exhibition/villepin

Nature Art Jam at The Part at K11 Musea

Soak up the wonderful atmosphere at this refreshing summer oasis and let your child’s imagination run free with a guided tour to discover native and exotic plant species – a breath of fresh air at Hong Kong’s first urban biodiversity museum. It’s the perfect way to get in a little blonding with your loved ones in a fun and beautiful setting for both the young and young at heart to enjoy.

When: Ongoing
Price: HK$250 (Includes one child and one guardian)
Location: Nature Discovery Park, 8/F K11 Musea
For more information: K11musea.com

Tufting Workshop

For those not in the know, tufting is a manufacturing process whereby a thread is inserted into a primary base. It’s an ancient technique for making warm garments, such as mittens. This tufting workshop enables you to mix-and-match different coloured yarns and make a fluffy rug via tufting machines – boasting creative results that will be totally instagrammable. And once added to your social media feed you will be the envy of your friends with these adorbale designs.

When: Ongoing
Price: HK$1280
Location: S411 Staunton Road, PMQ
For more information: pmq.org.hk

Hong Kong’s Maritime Miracle: The Story of our City since 1945

Explore Hong Kong’s recovery from the ravages of Japanese occupation and World War II through its modern iteration with nautical artefacts and maritime-themed tech. With more than 20 thoughtfully selected exhibits, visitors can trace Hong Kong’s evolution from its first tentative steps to prosperity at the end of World War II through to its rise as an international maritime hub. A testament to the city’s admirable ability to overcome history and not only thrive, but also to prosper.

When: Ongoing
Price: Free entry
Location: Special Exhibitions & Events Gallery, 11 Man Kwong St., Central
For more information: hkmaritimemuseum.org

The Art of Fugue

The Hong Kong Philharmonic is giving their interpretation of Johannes Sebastian Bach’s monumental musical creation, “The Art of Fugue”. This was one of the last ever piece composed by Bach and while he didn’t specify which musical instruments should be used, the HK Phil will play a selection of contrapunctus (four-voice arrangement) with four trombones. All in all a most intriguing arrangement.

When: 6 July
Price: HK$250
Location: JC Cube, Tai Kwun
For more information: hkphil.org

2022 Korean Young Artists: “Pith of Cake” Exhibition

The Korean Cultural Centre in Hong Kong proudly presents the 2022 Korean Young Artists Series: Pith of Cake, showcasing 32 fresh-and-innovative artworks, including paintings, installations and drawings from four promising South Korean artists, Jihee Kim, Lee Young Ho, Phee Jungwon and Song Myung Jin – empowering them to express their unique identity with original materials and techniques.

When: 16 July
Price: Free entry
Location: 6-7/F, Block B, PMQ
For more information: hk.korean-culture.org/hk

Under Armour’s Flagship Store Opens

Shop Under Armour’s latest collaboration at its newly opened flagship store in Hong Kong. Spanning two floors between 5,300 sq ft, the store offers a diverse section of apparel for men, women, and kids. Featuring a Run Crew area, a dedicated golf section, a women’s training area, and the brand’s new special collaborations such as The Curry Flow 9, Project Rock, and HOVR Machina 3. For a touch of Hong Kong culture, he store shocwcases Hong Kong-inspired graphics by local artist Yu Cheung (Ah Yu).

Location: Manning House, Queen’s Road Central, Central
For more information: underarmour.com/en-us