This new HKPM exhibition gives ancient imperial heritage a modern local twist

The Hong Kong Palace Museum’s latest exhibition, 'A Day in the City – An Experimental Study of Things Across Time', offers a modern interpretation of ancient imperial heritage by collaborating with nine local artists. This innovative showcase bridges the gap between imperial history and contemporary urban life, inviting visitors to explore the Forbidden City’s majesty through everyday Hong Kong perspectives.

Illustrator Kasing Lung, known for his whimsical Labubu creations, reimagines the Forbidden City’s Imperial Garden alongside Yau Ma Tei’s Yung Shue Tau, populated with his signature forest elves and creature companions. Painter and sculptor Kila Cheung draws parallels between Qing dynasty Emperor Puyi’s fondness for cycling and 1980s Hong Kong’s street bike culture, using mixed-media sculptures to capture the youthful spirit of both periods.

Comic artist Li Chi Tak contributes an interactive installation inspired by children dreaming of building a grand garden playground together. Ceramic and 3D-printing artist Benny To translates historic architectural blueprints, like Qing dynasty military barracks plans, into futuristic artefacts and modern feng shui potted plants.

Seth Hon utilizes live meteorological data to create a 'breathing' stone in a virtual environment, while Charlotte Lui transforms imperial scenes into local cha chaan tengs and the Victoria Harbour skyline. Visual artist Tsang Hing Ling examines human civilization through digital fish artworks, and Yau Kwok Keung reimagines celestial rotation logic using contemporary materials.

Composer Fung Lam adds a soundscape structured around ancient Chinese timekeeping, while the exhibition also offers workshops led by local artists to encourage visitors to experiment with materials and perspectives on cultural heritage. The exhibition runs until February 22, 2027, with standard entry included in general admission tickets.