Ju Chao (1811 – 1865) and Ju Lian (1828 – 1904), or the Two Jus, were late-Qing painters native to Guangdong. Despite their role in a military private secretariat, the cousins were by nature passionate painters. It was in painting that they found expression for their strong devotion to their native land, be they images of plants, insects and small animals or village scenes. Featuring the finest selections from museums both local and in Guangdong, the touring exhibition is unprecedented for both the styles and subjects it encompasses.

The Blue House Preservation Project was launched by the Hong Kong government in 2006 as part of an initiative to revitalize pre-war buildings. The site includes 3 historic buildings and an adjacent open space, and the project is notable for having allowed original residents to remain in the building following renovations. The Blue House is now home of the “Wanchai Livelihood Museum”, which was opened to the public last year. Its mission is to raise public awareness of the importance of cultural preservation. We will be guided through the Blue House by local inhabitants who will tell us about their lives past and present.

Our visit to the Blue House will be preceded by lunch at “Pawn”, another notable example of turn-of-the-century three-storey building with balconies which used to house a pawn shop on the ground floor. This building, facing the tram tracks on Johnston Road, was similarly renovated recently and is now a restaurant serving excellent traditional English cuisine.

The 1950’s colonial-style house has been the official residence of the Chief Secretary since that time, and is situated in a garden with stunning views overlooking Victoria Harbour. The Friends’ committee invites all members to attend this unique occasion. It is a great opportunity to meet with our museum curators, committee members and share fellowship with each other. There will be an exhibition of Hong Kong artists’ works, music and catering.

As space is limited, the occasion is open to members only.  Guests who wish to attend will need to be enrolled as new members first.  Registration is required and will be on a first-come first-served basis.

The exhibition takes the work of the significant Hong Kong artists, Antonio Mak (1951–1994), as a starting point, this group exhibition will utilize a multi-layered approach to examine the questions of where and how the art of this significant Hong Kong artist exists today, physically, psychologically and metaphorically; and of how our perceptions might by changed by re-encountering his art and his history in our own time.

Future Trips

April 20-25th, 2009 - London –itinerary will include special guided tours to the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, new China Gallery at the Victoria & Albert Museum, the newly opened Percival David Foundation Collection at the British Museum, and visit to Compton Verney Museum with Peter Lam, Director of Art Museum, Chinese University of HK.

July 2009 – Washington DC – visit to the Freer Gallery collection at the Smithsonian Institution with Prof. Jenny So

Oct/Nov 2009 - Ethiopia

Originally designed by the Museum design team, the Friends’ tote bags are sturdy, light and attractive with leather shouder straps and lined interior. As they have been very popular, we are now introducing four new colors; poppy red, meadow green, sky blue, and desert beige together with contrasting color purse. Perfect for carrying documents, books and shopping, they also make ideal gifts.

$120 each. Your purchase will help us support the HKMA.

Friends’ Notecards