The Nigerian Mvies

The Nigerian Mvies
>

Friday 28 June 2013

Arts in Hong Kong

By Georgina Straits


The simplest way to experience the enchantment of the Far East is through fine humanities. Hong Kong arts are strongly affected by both the Chinese and Brit. The local history is clear while on a trip to 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 ranging in age from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. The rich cultural history of China is represented in the ornamental and ritual items made from a spread of materials like bamboo, ivory, rhinoceros horn, bronze, jade, lacquer, and glass. The Chinese Fine Arts Collection features modern paintings representing different creative styles and techniques popular in the 20th Century and pictures the adaption in the styles of Chinese artists. But maybe the best exhibit in the Hong Kong Museum of Art is the collection of historical images. The collection inspires a sense of nostalgia for the outlandish wild sweetness of Hong Kong's deltas and harbors before industrialization.

Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware

Maybe one of the most original 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 Brit left their mark during their 150 year occupation. In the late 1800s, the first teahouses started to appear in HK. At first, people purchased tea only to work to guests however through time tea has become a frequent libation. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are attracted to the renowned collection of Yixing teapots. Hand chiseled from clay cropped from the city of Yixing in China, the teapots became popular with students beginning in the 1500s. The museum also offers an interactive experience with tea gatherings for a very 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 venues. A show by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra is a must see for visitors. Not only does the orchestra play the significant classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the mix of Eastern and Western music offers a special chance to appreciate the phenomenal history of HK.

Sunbeam Theatre and Ko Shan Theatre Operas

The Chinese influence in Hong Kong is also proof in opera performances. Opera originally debuted in HK in the Cantonese language. Cantonese operas are still held in the Sunbeam Theatre and Ko Shan Theatre. The opera is an alliance of normal martial-arts, acting, acrobatics, and music. Attending an one hour Cantonese Opera Appreciation Class at the HK Heritage Museum is highly counseled for visitors to find out more about this unique art form. Experiencing the fine arts in real life is essential for a comprehensive appreciation of the Hong Kong's historic evolution.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment