HONG KONG — The Central Harbourfront has undergone a surreal botanical transformation this March as acclaimed artist CJ Hendry debuts “Flower Market,” a massive immersive installation marking her first major showcase in Asia. Running from March 19 to 22 at AIA Vitality Park, the exhibition replaces the transient fragrance of the city’s traditional wet markets with a sprawling greenhouse containing over 150,000 plush, handcrafted flora. The event, held in conjunction with Hong Kong Art Month, saw all registration slots vanish within 24 hours of opening, signaling a profound local appetite for Hendry’s signature blend of high-concept art and tactile accessibility.
A New Breed of Botany
CJ Hendry, a Brisbane-born, New York-based artist, has carved a unique niche in the contemporary art world. Originally famous for her meticulous, hyperrealistic ballpoint pen drawings, Hendry has pivoted toward large-scale architectural interventions that challenge the viewer’s perception of reality.
In her latest work, the “Flower Market” serves as a meditation on the human desire to capture and domesticate nature. Within a pavilion overlooking Victoria Harbour, visitors navigate a lush hedge maze populated by oversized sculptures before entering a greenhouse saturated with color. The “plants”—ranging from sunflowers and thistles to violets—are rendered entirely in fabric. These soft, plush specimens offer a sharp contrast to the nearby Prince Edward Flower Market, providing a version of nature that will never wilt or fade.
Local Homage and Cultural Symbols
While the installation has previously appeared in Brooklyn, the Hong Kong edition features two bespoke commissions that root the project in its local context.
- The Henderson Flower: An oversized plush Allium commissioned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Henderson Land. The flower serves as a symbol of resilience and unity, mirroring the permanent sculpture located at The Henderson building.
- The Bauhinia: A monumental soft-sculpture rendition of Hong Kong’s official floral emblem. By translating this civic symbol into a medium associated with comfort and childhood, Hendry invites visitors to reconsider the city’s identity through a lens of softness and intimacy.
The Rise of “Democratic” Art
The installation represents a shift in the Art Month landscape, offering a complimentary experience amidst a season often dominated by exclusive, high-priced gallery fairs. Hendry’s philosophy prioritizes direct engagement over academic gatekeeping. “It’s a playful, childlike adventure,” Hendry remarked, noting her hope that the joy inspired by the greenhouse remains with visitors long after they return to the “real life” of the city.
Visitor Information and Logistics
For those who secured tickets, the experience includes a unique takeaway: each guest can select one complimentary plush flower to keep, with additional stems available for purchase at HK$38.
If You Are Attending:
- Location: AIA Vitality Park, Central Harbourfront. Closest transit via HK Station (Exit F) or Central Station (Exit A).
- Timing: Allow at least one hour to navigate the maze and greenhouse. Weekday mornings offer the most contemplative atmosphere.
- Nearby: The exhibition is situated along the harbourfront promenade, making it an ideal anchor for a broader tour of Art Month installations across Central.
As the greenhouse doors close on March 22, the “Flower Market” stands as a testament to the power of public art to transform a skyline, proving that even in a city of concrete, there is always room for a garden—even one made of plush.