Hong Kong's art scene persists with intimate narratives and international presence amid political shifts

Hong Kong's art scene is evolving with a focus on personal stories and micro-histories, partly influenced by the city's 'Zero Covid' policy during the pandemic, which led residents to explore local themes more deeply. Artist Carol Lee Mei Kuen examines private histories and heirlooms in her project 'Stories of Victoria', using clay samples from various city areas. Stephen Wong Chun Hei presents 'The Star Ferry Tale' at Gallery Exit until 20 April, depicting the iconic ferry as a spaceship in acrylic paintings inspired by Google Earth views during COVID confinement. Xiyadie's 'Butterfly Dream' at Blindspot Gallery until 11 May uses traditional paper cutting to portray a queer discovery journey, a topic often restricted in mainland China. The Asia Society hosts the first local retrospective of Wifredo Lam until 2 June, connecting the Cuban artist to the Cantonese diaspora. International galleries like White Cube, with Louise Giovanelli's oil paintings, and David Zwirner, featuring Wolfgang Tillmans's photography, maintain Hong Kong's global artistic ties. New art spaces such as Current Plans, founded by curator Eunice Tsang, and New Part, co-organized by Michelle Wong, highlight grassroots efforts to balance institutional caution. Despite the recent implementation of a second National Security Law and political uncertainties, artists and gallerists continue to open galleries and explore creative boundaries, with many Hongkongers remaining determined to stay and create.