Historically known for its temple and periodic triad-related incidents, Wong Tai Sin is rarely the first choice for art enthusiasts. However, CK Poon Kin-wai, a seasoned industry veteran who was part of the Michelin-star-winning team at Forum restaurant, believes he can shift this perception.
April saw the unveiling of Man Yuen Restaurant, comfortably situated within Tin Ma Court, one of Hong Kong’s oldest housing estates. This debut comes alongside the grand opening of the Hong Kong Arts Development Council’s (ADC) new headquarters. The HK$349 million establishment will not only host cultural programmes but also rent exhibition space to third parties.
Spread across four floors, the space comprises 30,000 sq ft of room for creativity. It resides within Landmark South, an office tower replacing the old Aberdeen Fire Station and just a stone’s throw from Wong Chuk Hang MTR station.
In addition to housing the ADC’s administrative office, the headquarters feature an arts information center, a spacious multipurpose exhibition hall called Showcase, and ADC Artspace. This complex contains 28 artist studios available for below-market-rate rental, supporting budding creatives.
Wong Chuk Hang’s metamorphosis into an arts hub has been a gradual process. Over the last decade, various commercial galleries and independent non-profit art spaces have migrated into its aging factory buildings, paving the way for ADC’s venture into the neighborhood.
The inaugural exhibition, aptly named “Marginal Notes,” explores lesser-known facts, myths, and stories about Wong Chuk Hang through the works of 11 artists and artist groups based in Hong Kong. These creations span from ceramic relics inspired by ancient inhabitants to abstracted essences of 20th-century capitalism, highlighting the district’s contrasting old and new.
Moving forward, ADC plans to host shows aligned with its mission to promote young talent. However, most of the time, Showcase will be available for external hirers. In doing so, the ADC hopes to infuse the area with cultural experiences and offer a platform for diverse voices in the arts sector.
The ADC’s permanent residence in Wong Chuk Hang could serve as a vital validation of the area as one of Hong Kong’s significant art hubs. While its long-term impact remains to be seen, the council’s move to the district certainly marks an exciting chapter in Hong Kong’s cultural landscape.
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