The fragility of city living in Hong Kong

Hong Kong as a city is ever changing and flooded with information. People living in a city often have very indifferent and detached relationships with each other, and with the city, because changes can happen so quickly and there are so many things competing for their attention. This research investigates and comments on the fragility of these relationships. I used linear elements inspired by the form and speed of roads and wild cursive script to express the rhythm of city living. I also looked for ideas from traditional Chinese thinking that could inform this investigation. I discuss the work of a number of artists that influenced my thinking and approach, exploring how they expressed problems they associated with city living.<br><br>In this studio-based project, I created a series of new works using porcelain and metal. These echo the concrete and steel we use to build our city. Using long, cursive and delicate porcelain wires, with linkages made by metal, the pieces aimed to be an expression of city living, with a focus on the fragility of relationships. They sought to reflect the pace of city living and the weaknesses of the relationships. This research project does not set out to provide any specific answers, but rather through visual means aims to contribute to an understanding of Hong Kong’s social issues with reference to Chinese traditional thinking.