Hong Kong’s Hand-crafted Violin Makers
Most people would not be able to tell apart a hand-crafted violin from a factory produced one. But the pursuit of the perfect sound and the appreciation of true aficionados keep Hong Kong's violin makers committed to their craft.
The Art of Protest – Politics Finds Artistic Expression in Hong Kong
Hong Kong's colourful protest culture is increasingly infused with artistic elements, just as themes of politics and protest are increasingly expressed in artworks by local artists. Varsity takes a look at Hong Kong's art of protest.
Singing in Sign
Imagine songs with lyrics but without words. Imagine sign language songs. Some advocates of sign language songs think they are a great way to bring the deaf and the hearing together and promote mutual understanding in a fun manner. But reality seems far more complicated. Varsity finds out why.
Transsexual Marriage
A landmark case involving W, a transsexual woman who wants to get married in Hong Kong is expected to be heard at the Court of Final Appeal next year. Now, W's story is being dramatised in a musical called "Dream of the Mermaid". Varsity meets members of the production and looks at some of the struggles faced by transsexuals in Hong Kong.
Snake King
Hong Kong is home to more than 50 species of snakes, some of which are poisonous. The territory also boasts a tradition of "snake kings", trained snake handlers who are experts at capturing wild snakes. Although snake kings also offer health tonics and delicacies made from snakes, they also work with conservationists to protect local snakes while keeping them away from humans.
Islanders fight Shek Kwu Chau Incinerator Plan
The future of the government's plans to build a multi-billion dollar waste incinerator off Shek Kwu Chau has been thrown into uncertainty after legislators opposed the proposal. Opposition to the plan has been most vocal from green groups and residents on nearby Cheung Chau. But little has been heard from actual inhabitants of Shek Kwu Chau, who would live on the doorstep of the facility.
No Place to Call Home
As rental prices continue to soar in Hong Kong, more and more people are struggling to find a place to call home. With long waiting lists for public housing, some low-income families and individuals are resorting to renting sub-divided units in industrial buildings. These are cheaper than sub-divided units in residential buildings but they are also illegal and tenants face the constant threat of eviction.
Food Banks: Enough food for all?
The rising cost of food in Hong Kong has hit its poorest the hardest. Increasingly, people on low incomes are turning to food banks to help fulfill their basic needs. But these food banks face operational restrictions, particularly those who that are subsidized by the government.
Tea Dance waltzes into the Future
It started in the 1960's as gatherings where the young and cool went to dance, listen to the latest bands and just be seen, but the tea-dance is alive and well in 21st century Hong Kong. The world of the tea-dance is a world away from the hustle and bustle of urban Hong Kong. In dance-halls above street-level in commercial buildings, couples spend their afternoons practising their waltzes and striking poses for Latin dances.
Iphoneography – fad, art or movement?
Smartphone cameras are no longer being used to just take snaps of kids and pets. They are being used by professional photographers and photojournalists to create news pictures and even art. Meet the Iphoneographers, the professionals and hobbyists who love the convenience, intimacy and immediacy of smartphone photos.
