Friday, June 28, 2013

Hong Kong Top Arts

By Georgina Straits


The easiest way to experience the enchantment of the East is through fine arts. Hong Kong arts are strongly influenced by both the Chinese and Brit. The local history is evident while on a trip to the historic and art collections as well as attending orchestral and operatic demonstrations.

Hong Kong Museum of Art

Due to Hong Kong's close geographic proximity, China heavily 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 decorative 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 creative styles and methodologies 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 historic images. The collection conjures up a sense of nostalgia for the glamorous wild beauty of Hong Kong's deltas and harbors before industrialization.

Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware

Perhaps one of the most unique ways of learning about fine humanities in Hong Kong 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 UK left their mark during their 150 year occupation. In the latter 1800s, the 1st teahouses started to appear in Hong Kong. Initially, folks purchased tea only to function to guests however through time tea has become a common drink. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are drawn to the famous collection of Yixing teapots. Hand sculpted from clay harvested from the city of Yixing in China, the teapots became well liked 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 UK brought with them Western classical music, which can often be enjoyed today at one or two venues. A show by the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra is a must-see for visitors. Not only does the orchestra play the important classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the mix of Western and Eastern music gives a special chance to appreciate the remarkable history of Hong Kong.

Sunbeam Theatre and Ko Shan Theatre Operas

The Chinese influence in HK is also proof 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 amalgamation of normal selfdefense skills, acting, acrobatics, and music. Attending an an hour Cantonese Opera Appreciation Class at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum is extremely commended for visitors to find out about this unique art form. Experiencing the fine arts in real life is essential for a comprehensive knowledge of the Hong Kong's historical evolution.




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