HKMoA mystery characters captivate online community

A citizen recently spotted mysterious Chinese characters on the glass facade of the Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA), sparking lively internet discussion.

The image of the calligraphy was uploaded on social media platforms on Tuesday (Mar 25), catching the attention of internet users who poured in and shared similar discoveries. Some commenters thought it was random graffiti.

An eagle-eyed web user soon pointed out that the characters were the work of world-renowned artist Xu Bing, who was appointed Hong Kong's Ambassador for Cultural Promotion in March last year.

The artwork displayed on HKMoA's facade is part of the "Eying East, Wondering West —Square Word Calligraphy Classroom" exhibition showcasing Xu's signature, Square Word Calligraphy. 

Xu's unique calligraphy resembles Chinese characters with English writings, presenting the phrase "Hong Kong Museum of Art, Connect Art to People" on the museum facade.

In addition to Xu's newest creation, which incorporates the city's linguistic features, the exhibition will also guide visitors worldwide to learn and write Square Words, allowing them to enjoy the fun of traditional Chinese art while expanding creativity through language switching.

The exhibition runs from March 26 to July 30 at the HKMoA and will move to the Oil Street Art Space in North Point from September 29 to January 11 next year, with free admission. 

Additionally, Xu's works will also be exhibited in Sheung Wan, Admiralty, the Convention and Exhibition Centre, and Wan Chai MTR stations from March 26 to September 25, featuring the greeting "Long time no see" in the form of Square Word Calligraphy, marking the first global display of Xu's work in a public transport space.

Following the revelation, the online community appreciated the artwork, with comments highlighting the artistic nature of the characters and the new perspective on viewing words.