By Georgina Straits
The simplest way to experience the enchantment of the East is through fine humanities. Hong Kong arts are strongly influenced by both the Chinese and Brit. The local history is evident 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 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 varying in age from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. The rich cultural inheritance of China is represented in the decorative and ritual items made of a range of materials such as bamboo, ivory, rhinoceros horn, bronze, jade, lacquer, and glass. The Chinese Fine Arts Collection features modern paintings representing different artistic styles and techniques favored in the 20th Century and shows the evolution in the styles of Chinese artists. But perhaps the best exhibit in the Hong Kong Museum of Art is the collection of historical photographs. The collection inspires a feeling of nostalgia for the exotic wild beauty of Hong Kong's deltas and harbors before industrialization.
Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware
Perhaps one of the most original methods of learning about fine humanities in HK is through a trip to the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware. Tea drinking in Hong Kong was a habit adopted from the Chinese however the UK left their mark during their 150 year occupation. In the late 1800s, the 1st teahouses started to appear in Hong Kong. At first, folks bought tea only to function to guests however through time tea has become an everyday drink. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are drawn to the respected collection of Yixing teapots. Hand sculptured from clay harvested from the town 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 very unique demonstration of Hong Kong arts.
Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra
The British in HK were influential in the city's music scene. The English 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 have to see for visitors. Not only does the orchestra play the significant classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the blend of Eastern and Western music gives a special chance to appreciate the exceptional 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 amalgamation of normal martial-arts, acting, acrobatics, and music. Attending an an 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 humanities in person is vital for an in-depth knowledge of the Hong Kong's historic evolution.
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 varying in age from the Neolithic period to the 20th Century. The rich cultural inheritance of China is represented in the decorative and ritual items made of a range of materials such as bamboo, ivory, rhinoceros horn, bronze, jade, lacquer, and glass. The Chinese Fine Arts Collection features modern paintings representing different artistic styles and techniques favored in the 20th Century and shows the evolution in the styles of Chinese artists. But perhaps the best exhibit in the Hong Kong Museum of Art is the collection of historical photographs. The collection inspires a feeling of nostalgia for the exotic wild beauty of Hong Kong's deltas and harbors before industrialization.
Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware
Perhaps one of the most original methods of learning about fine humanities in HK is through a trip to the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware. Tea drinking in Hong Kong was a habit adopted from the Chinese however the UK left their mark during their 150 year occupation. In the late 1800s, the 1st teahouses started to appear in Hong Kong. At first, folks bought tea only to function to guests however through time tea has become an everyday drink. Visitors to the Flagstaff House Museum to are drawn to the respected collection of Yixing teapots. Hand sculptured from clay harvested from the town 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 very unique demonstration of Hong Kong arts.
Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra
The British in HK were influential in the city's music scene. The English 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 have to see for visitors. Not only does the orchestra play the significant classics but they also incorporate modern artist. Listening to the blend of Eastern and Western music gives a special chance to appreciate the exceptional 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 amalgamation of normal martial-arts, acting, acrobatics, and music. Attending an an 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 humanities in person is vital for an in-depth knowledge of the Hong Kong's historic 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.