HONG KONG — The Central Harbourfront has been transformed into a botanical wonderland this March as internationally acclaimed artist CJ Hendry brings her viral “Flower Market” installation to Asia for the first time. Located at AIA Vitality Park from March 19–22, the exhibition features over 150,000 plush, handcrafted flowers, offering a whimsical and permanent alternative to the nearby bustling cut-flower markets of Prince Edward. The event, a centerpiece of Hong Kong Art Month, saw all registration slots filled within 24 hours of opening, signaling a massive appetite for accessible contemporary art.
A New Vision of Botany
CJ Hendry, a New York-based artist originally from Brisbane, has built a global reputation for defying traditional artistic boundaries. While she first gained fame for her hyper-realistic ballpoint pen drawings, her recent work focuses on large-scale, immersive environments that challenge the viewer’s perception of everyday objects.
In this latest iteration of “Flower Market,” Hendry replaces the ephemeral nature of traditional floriculture with durability and touch. Housed within a greenhouse-style pavilion overlooking Victoria Harbour, the exhibition invites visitors to navigate a lush hedge maze before emerging into a sea of fabric blooms. From sunflowers and violets to thistles and narcissi, the installation features 26 unique designs that mimic botanical forms while embracing a soft, exaggerated aesthetic.
Local Homage and Symbolic Commisions
The Hong Kong exhibition distinguishes itself with two bespoke commissions that root the project in its local context:
- The Bauhinia: A plush rendition of Hong Kong’s official floral emblem, reimagining the city’s cultural symbol through a medium of comfort and intimacy.
- The Henderson Flower: An Allium commissioned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Henderson Land. Symbolizing resilience and unity, this piece mirrors the large-scale sculpture located at “The Henderson” building in Central.
“It’s a playful, childlike adventure,” Hendry remarked on the project’s spirit, noting her hope that the joy of the exhibition remains with visitors long after they exit back into the “real world.”
Demographic Art in the Heart of Art Month
While March in Hong Kong is often defined by high-stakes auctions and elite gallery showings, Hendry’s “Flower Market” stands out for its democratic approach. The installation is free to the public, emphasizing accessibility over exclusivity.
Visitor Information:
- Venue: AIA Vitality Park, Central Harbourfront.
- Experience: Guests with pre-registered e-tickets can explore the greenhouse and are invited to take home one complimentary plush flower. Additional stems are available for purchase at HK$38.
- Access: The site is easily accessible via a short walk from Central Station (Exit A) or Hong Kong Station (Exit F).
As the city continues its evolution into a global arts hub, installations like “Flower Market” bridge the gap between high-concept contemporary art and public engagement. By translating the fragile beauty of a flower into a tactile, everlasting form, Hendry provides a meditative space that celebrates abundance in the heart of the urban jungle.