What does Hong Kong’s trade development look like through the eyes of its next generation? A special drawing activity organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) invited 100 local school students to answer that question, producing colourful artworks that captured the city’s distinctive landmarks, industrial spirit and the unique character of Wan Chai, where the Council has hosted major trade fairs and conferences for decades.
Held alongside the Hong Kong Book Fair – one of Hong Kong’s perennial summer family attractions and now in its 36th edition – the activity brought students together to create drawings of local scenes under the guidance of artist Jane Lee.
Inspired by the theme Hong Kong Trade · Connecting the World, the drawings featured Hong Kong landmarks, scenes from exhibitions and conferences, as well as motifs depicting the shipping and air freight sector, alongside community and business life. These details serve as a subtle tribute to the city’s designation under the national 15th Five-Year Plan as an international financial, shipping, trading and innovation and technology centre, as well as a global hub for high-calibre talent – collectively termed the “Four Centres and One Hub”.
Ms Lee (also known by the pseudonym Messy Desk) will incorporate the students’ ideas into a large-scale artwork commemorating the HKTDC’s 60th anniversary. The public art installation will be displayed at the eastbound O'Brien Road tram stop in Wan Chai from 2 to 29 October.
Overall, the piece aims to highlight Hong Kong’s strengths in connecting global markets while capturing the vitality and dynamism of Wan Chai as a major hub for international conventions, exhibitions and business events.
Reflecting on the significance of the initiative in inspiring future trade ambassadors, HKTDC Chairman Prof Frederick Ma said: “The HKTDC has been based in Wan Chai for decades, helping link Hong Kong with global markets. Through this project we are fostering the growth of Wan Chai’s creative sector and the exchange of ideas, creating momentum for the future.”
Students from primary and secondary schools in Wan Chai enthusiastically put pens to paper during the workshop, before setting off to enjoy the diverse range of activities on offer at the Book Fair, the Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks. From author talks and an exhibition on the theme of reading and travel to sports and fitness demonstrations, snack tastings and an extensive selection of books, stationery and creative products on sale, there was something for visitors of all ages to discover.
The summer fair excitement will continue in August with a blockbuster run of 5 fairs at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. From 14 August, Food Expo PRO, the Hong Kong International Tea Fair, Food Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo and Home Delights Expo will together offer an unrivalled showcase of food, lifestyle and wellness products and themed activities for both trade buyers and the public.