Today's Read Contributor On September 18, 2025, author and cultural journalist Enid Tsui captivated a diverse audience at esea contemporary in Manchester, where she presented her latest book, Art in Hong Kong: Portrait of a City in Flux. The event drew art enthusiasts, scholars, and cultural observers, all eager to explore Tsui’s in-depth analysis of the shifting art landscape in Hong Kong amidst the city’s ongoing political and social transformations. Tsui’s book offers a timely and critical examination of how Hong Kong, long regarded as Asia’s leading art hub, is experiencing significant changes that are reshaping its creative and cultural identity.
During her talk, Tsui shared insights into the challenges that artists and art institutions in Hong Kong are facing, particularly in light of the introduction of new national security laws. These laws have had a profound impact on creative expression in the city, raising concerns about censorship and the ability of artists to freely explore and represent their ideas. Tsui highlighted the increasing tension between political constraints and the desire for cultural autonomy, a theme that runs through much of the book.
The event provided a space for attendees to engage in meaningful discussions about the evolving relationship between art, identity, and politics in Hong Kong. Many participants reflected on the broader implications for the global art community, considering how the struggles in Hong Kong might mirror challenges faced by artists in other parts of the world. Tsui’s work sparked a broader conversation about the ways in which art can both reflect and resist political forces, shedding light on the delicate balance between cultural heritage and the realities of living under political pressure.
Tsui’s book, published by Lund Humphries, not only delves into the specifics of Hong Kong’s art scene but also explores the city’s place within the broader context of international art movements. It provides a valuable resource for understanding how the dynamics of politics and culture intersect in one of Asia’s most dynamic urban environments. The book is available for purchase through the Lund Humphries website, where readers can further explore Tsui’s insightful analysis.
As Hong Kong continues to face political and social upheaval, Art in Hong Kong: Portrait of a City in Flux stands as an important work, offering a nuanced perspective on the resilience of artists and the ever-changing nature of the city’s artistic identity. Through her careful documentation and exploration, Tsui has contributed to an ongoing conversation about the intersection of art, politics, and society, providing a platform for understanding how art can serve as both a reflection of and resistance to the forces shaping the world.
