An impressive collection of works, both ancient and modern, conveniently located by the Star Ferry port in Tsim Sha Tsui.
The Hong Kong Museum of Art has been running since the sixties and houses the largest collection of art in Hong Kong, with over 15,000 works. There is something for all tastes here, with art that allows you to trace the history of Hong Kong and of China, as well as current and contemporary works by local artists.Some of the exhibits on display are from the 16th century, and the body of work in the Xubaizhai Gallery is of particular interest as it explores everyday life in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, as depicted in the scroll paintings and landscapes of the day. The museum tends to rotate its exhibits regularly, which encourages locals to drop in regularly to see what has been put out.On the whole, the museum exhibits paintings, calligraphy and sculptures from Hong Kong and from China. You might also catch sight of the museum's collection of ceramics, bamboo carvings or bronze and jade works, depending on the museum’s current rotation. Temporary exhibitions tend to focus on contemporary local artists. These shows can provide an interesting insight into modern Hong Kong and modern China, and the ways in which Eastern traditions have formed a dialogue with Western influences. The Hong Kong Museum of Art website is worth a look if you want to know what's on before you go.The museum is easily accessible. Take the MTR to Tsim Sha Tsui and take Exit F, or else take the Star Ferry from Central or Wan Chai to Tsim Sha Tsui. There are plenty of buses that come here too.In 1984 the museum opened another branch at Flagstaff House, a neo-Classical building and emblem of British colonial architecture. The Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware also makes for an interesting visit, and has a rich collection of old and new ceramics.
