The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has successfully launched its first activation in a groundbreaking three-year global partnership with Art Basel. From October 18 to 20, 2024, visitors to Art Basel Paris are being treated to an authentic taste of Hong Kong culture through a pop-up "cha chaan teng" (Hong Kong-style café) at the Grand Palais.
L-R: Mr Dane Cheng, HKTB Executive Director (second from right), Mr Noah Horowitz, CEO, Art Basel (second from left), Ms Angelle Siyang-Le, Director of Art Basel Hong Kong (rightmost), and Clément Delépine, Director of Art Basel Paris
©Courtesy Hong Kong Tourism Board
This unique culinary experience offers art enthusiasts and culture lovers a chance to savor iconic Hong Kong delicacies such as roasted pork 'char siu' with rice, pineapple buns, egg tarts, mango pudding, and 'Yuen Yang' milk tea. Adding to the ambiance is a stunning chandelier-like illuminated installation by Hong Kong-based artist Trevor Yeung, who is also representing Hong Kong at this year's Venice Biennale.
Dane Cheng, Executive Director of HKTB, expressed his excitement about the initiative, highlighting the positive reception from visitors who have had the opportunity to try authentic Hong Kong cuisine and appreciate Yeung's artwork. The HKTB aims to provide a deeper understanding of Hong Kong's living culture to international audiences through this world-class arts platform.
Angelle Siyang-Le, Director of Art Basel Hong Kong, emphasized the significance of showcasing Hong Kong's rich culinary history and cultural diversity to an international audience. She noted that the cha chaan teng concept beautifully illustrates the vital connection between artists and their local cultures.
This activation at Art Basel Paris is just the beginning of HKTB's global partnership with Art Basel. Plans are already underway for similar themed pop-ups at Art Basel Miami Beach in December 2024 and a special activation during Art Basel Hong Kong in March 2025.
Dane and Noah enjoying the food at Cha Chaan Teng
©Courtesy Hong Kong Tourism Board
The Hong Kong Café – Cha Chaan Teng is located on Level 1, Galerie Nord, Grand Palais, and is open to the public from 11 am to 7 pm during the fair. Additionally, a panel discussion titled "Cultural crossroads: Hong Kong, Shanghai, Abu Dhabi" will take place on October 18, featuring speakers from prominent cultural institutions.
This innovative approach by the HKTB not only promotes Hong Kong's unique culture but also strengthens its position as a world-class travel destination. By bridging art and culinary experiences, Hong Kong is showcasing its vibrant and diverse cultural landscape to a global audience, inviting them to explore the city's rich heritage and contemporary offerings.
Hong Kong Café – Cha Chaan Teng at Art Basel Paris
Location: Level 1, Galerie Nord, Grand Palais
Operation Hours: 18-20 October, 11am-7pm
Hong Kong Tourism Board Website: https://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/index.html
Comments