Being Hong Kong: Hong Kong Handicraft

In the 21st century, the age of AI, do we still need handicrafts?

In Hong Kong, there are over 100 traditional handicrafts listed as "Intangible Cultural Heritage," including paper crafting, wood carving, Canton enamelware, seal carving, mahjong tiles, birdcages, umbrellas, gold jewelry, tinware, bamboo steamers, wooden boats, dragon boats, bamboo theaters, and neon signs, among others...

These record the rich and diverse craftsmanship that once existed in this city.

Today, with the internet and physical stores flooded with cheap, mass-produced goods from all over the world, why would people spend more money on handmade crafts that take longer to produce?

In the current world, as local characteristics blur with globalization, and AI brings both unexpected possibilities and a sense of crisis,

how will human hands and hearts adapt?

If we re-explore, redefine, and create, could there be handicrafts that help us see the unique character of this city and ourselves more deeply,

and even connect us to our history and cultural identity?

2026 Spring Issue, 308-page extended edition, includes a free "Hong Kong Shanhua" poster.

Let's get hands-on!