Floating Island

I’d like to examine the role of artistic and cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and mainland China in the 10 years since 1997.

We’ve seen increasing collaboration in some areas, such as film production, and also an increase in stage and musical performances from mainland China. I expect that with the coming handover anniversary, there will be even more performances to commemorate the historical milestone.

Recent years have also witnessed greater mainland participation in Hong Kong’s major arts festival, the international film festival and in the literary festival.

Books and other publications that are banned in China are readily available in Hong Kong.

On Hollywood Road, one can find art galleries (such as this one) featuring the work of contemporary artists from the mainland’s avant-garde alongside antique shops showcasing the ancient treasures of China.

I would guess that today there are more students from mainland China in Hong Kong’s art institutions than 10 years ago.

Who are the audiences for these cultural products? How do they view the interaction between Hong Kong and the mainland? And how do artists treat the issue of identity in relation to Hong Kong and the mainland?

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Professional exchange

Another idea would be to look at other types of professional exchanges between HK and mainland China, such as among journalists, lawyers and teachers. For example, I know JMSC conducts trainings for mainland journalists, and the Law Society organizes study trips and exchanges for Hong Kong lawyers in China. HKU often runs study trips to schools in Guangdong. What are we learning from each other?