By Our Botanical Correspondent
HONG KONG — This March, the high-octane energy of the Prince Edward flower markets met its surrealist match on the Central Harbourfront. New York-based artist CJ Hendry has officially launched “Flower Market,” an immersive horticultural installation featuring over 150,000 plush blossoms. Running from March 19 to 22 at AIA Vitality Park, the exhibition marks Hendry’s Asian debut, transforming the city’s skyline into a whimsical, wilt-proof greenhouse that challenges traditional perceptions of nature and art.
A Master of the Hyperrealistic
CJ Hendry, originally from Brisbane, has ascended to the upper echelons of the contemporary art world through a unique blend of digital savvy and analog precision. Known for her staggering hyperrealistic drawings executed in simple ballpoint pen, Hendry’s practice has increasingly leaned toward massive, experiential environments. Whether placing a swimming pool in the middle of a desert or recreating a Brooklyn flower stall, her work thrives on the tension between the familiar and the fantastic.
“Flower Market” represents the pinnacle of this exploration. Within a custom-built pavilion overlooking Victoria Harbour, visitors are greeted not by the scent of pollen, but by a tactile explosion of color. The exhibition features 26 distinct floral designs—including sunflowers, thistles, and violets—all meticulously crafted from plush fabric.
Local Homage: The Allium and the Bauhinia
While the installation has previously captivated audiences in New York, the Hong Kong edition features two site-specific commissions that ground the work in its local context:
- The Henderson Flower (Allium): Created to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Henderson Land, this piece symbolizes resilience and unity. It draws inspiration from the sculpture located at The Henderson building, dedicated to the group’s founder.
- The Bauhinia: A plush rendition of Hong Kong’s official floral emblem. By rendering this culturally significant symbol in a soft, oversized medium, Hendry invites viewers to engage with the city’s identity through a lens of comfort and playfulness.
“It’s a playful, childlike adventure,” Hendry remarked on the installation’s spirit. “I hope the Flower Market inspires joy and beauty well after the greenhouse is empty.”
Navigating the Exhibition
The journey begins through a lush hedge maze, where giant floral sculptures peek over the greenery, leading guests into the heart of the saturated greenhouse. The experience is designed to be democratic; while the art world often feels exclusive, Hendry’s work is immediately accessible, requiring no prior art history knowledge to appreciate its scale and vibrancy.
Practical Information for Visitors:
- Tickets: Admission is free with prior registration, though slots filled within 24 hours of opening.
- Take-Aways: Each ticket holder is entitled to one complimentary plush flower, with additional stems available for HK$38.
- Location: AIA Vitality Park is easily accessible via a short walk from Hong Kong Station (Exit F) or Central Station (Exit A).
As Hong Kong Art Month reaches its peak, “Flower Market” stands out as a rare, unhurried sanctuary. It serves as a meditation on the human impulse to domesticate nature, offering a garden that, for a few days in March, remains permanently in bloom.