"Legends of Lion Dance" exhibition showcases traditional Hong Kong crafts and cultural heritage in Belgium (with photos)
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With the support of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Brussels (HKETO, Brussels) and the Belgium-Hong Kong Society, Asian Events Tofoe, a non-profit-making organisation established by Hong Kong second-generation community members in Antwerp, is presenting around more than 10 unique lion heads made and embroidered in Hong Kong. The event was designed to be bigger and even better this year, with a larger exhibition space having been secured.
Visitors can learn about how lion heads are made, the meaning of the lion dance and Chinese New Year traditions. Live lion dances are included in the programme, and guided tours, in particular for schools, have been introduced this year. The event also ties in with Antwerp's Chinese New Year Parade to be held in the afternoon on February 17.
Entry is free of charge and the venue is easily accessible, close to Antwerp’s Chinatown and the city's Central railway station.
The Deputy Representative of HKETO, Brussels, Miss Fiona Chau, and two Aldermen of the City of Antwerp, the Alderman for City Development, Sports and Diamonds, Mr Ludo Van Campenhout, and the Alderman for Finance, Mobility, Tourism and Small Businesses, Mr Koen Kennis, officiated at the opening on February 2, which featured an expertly performed lion dance and was attended by more than 100 guests.
Miss Chau said Hong Kong attaches great importance to promoting Hong Kong's arts and culture, and cultivating cultural literacy of the younger generation, as arts and culture are the soul of a city and enrich people’s lives.
"In this regard, I am glad that the 'Legends of Lion Dance' exhibition shares the same vision of promoting Chinese culture. The lion dance has been part of the Chinese culture for thousands of years," she said, noting that in recent years, foreigners have become increasingly interested to learn more about traditional Chinese culture.
"Visitors can learn how lion heads are made and how this traditional craft has been passed down generations of artisans in Hong Kong, as well as the stories and legends associated with Chinese New Year," she added.
Antwerp has the biggest community of Hong Kong emigrants in Belgium and the event is also an opportunity for the second generation of Hong Kong emigrants to learn more about the traditional Chinese culture and to strengthen their bonds with their family's city of origin. These second-generation talents are welcome to return to study, live and work in Hong Kong.
The "Legends of Lion Dance" exhibition is being held until February 25 at the Bibliotheek Permeke public library at 26 De Coninckplein. It is open seven days a week.
Ends/Monday, February 5, 2018
Issued at HKT 20:30
Issued at HKT 20:30
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