Weaving into Hong Kong’s Past through its Textile Legacy

Description

Busy Needles: Textile Embellishments of Hong Kong delves into Hong Kong’s rich embroidery and textile history. It examines the intricate tasks of embroidery, beading and drawnwork, which were once skillfully carried out by older generations. Busy Needles highlights the defining qualities of commercial craft production in 20th-century Hong Kong, including systematisation of skilled work, female labour, adaptation for export markets and the alienation between makers and consumers. 

Moreover, the show also showcases materials from the Maryknoll Convent School Foundation, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary, alongside iconic pieces such as the Dior Spring/Summer 1998 “Floral Tattoo” gown. The show encourages alternative and personal views of craft in Hong Kong, which runs from March 2025 until 22 February 2026.