Central Market | Reveals how martial arts and traditional Chinese attire mutually enrich to weave a narrative of balance between strength and grace：Sartorial Elegance · Martial Prowess

Description

Chinese culture has a long and rich history. Martial arts and traditional Chinese clothing are not only the crystallization of skills and aesthetics, but also important carriers of history and spirit. To promote cultural heritage, the Student Affairs Office of the School of Professional and Continuing Education of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, in collaboration with the Hong Kong Association for the Promotion of Chinese Cultural Activities, the Central Market, and 2120, present the "Chinese Clothing Martial Arts" exhibition. Using Tai Chi, Wing Chun, and nunchaku as the main theme, and Tai Chi uniforms, long gowns, and short fighting as the weft, the exhibition weaves a cultural dialogue between strength and softness. The exhibition, which runs from now until October 12th on the first floor of the Central Market, features three themed areas: Tai Chi, Wing Chun, and nunchaku.

The opening ceremony of the "Splendid Clothes · Martial Arts" exhibition was officiated by Dr. Lau Yui-yi, Director of Student Affairs at the School of Professional and Continuing Education, Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Ms. Lam Chun-chu, Chairman of the Hong Kong Association for the Promotion of Chinese Cultural Activities; Mr. Lau Man-leung, Founder of the Hong Kong Nunchaku Association; Ms. Chow Ka-wai, representative of the Hung Clan; Ms. Tam Siu-wing, General Manager of Chinachem Group Asset Management Central Market; and Master Yu Zhenrong, Sixth-degree Wing Chun Kung Fu Master. This marked the official launch of a cultural dialogue integrating martial arts aesthetics with traditional costumes.

"Splendid Clothes · Martial Arts": Three Exhibition Zones: Clothing Expresses Truth and Martial Arts Expresses Spirit

The Tai Chi exhibition, centered on the concept of "flowing like clouds and flowing water, harmony between man and nature," showcases how the wide sleeves and flared sides of Tai Chi uniforms, through dynamic projections and structural deconstruction, enhance the flow of energy and the execution of movements. Curved cuffs support wrist support, while slits at the hem echo the "single whip" footwork. The garments and movements blend seamlessly, like a splash-ink painting, embodying the natural charm and dynamic philosophy of martial arts. The Wing Chun exhibition emphasizes the balance of strength and flexibility, synchronized attack and defense, and is a practical martial art that prioritizes efficiency. The flat-shoulder cut and slit hem of the cheongsam showcase its blend of elegance and practicality. The exhibition showcases how the cheongsam facilitates the swiftness of the Three Yuan Hands (spread, push, and crouch) and the Sun-shaped Punch, as well as the footwork transitions of the Two-Character Clamp Sheep Horse, echoing the essence of Wing Chun's synchronized attack and defense.

The Nunchaku exhibition focuses on the realm of "strength, agility, and ease of control." The nunchaku's swift movements combine the explosive power of chopping, sweeping, and wrapping, showcasing a perfect balance of strength and flexibility. The pairing of short Tang suits with kung fu pants showcases how clothing flows with fierce moves like the "White Snake Spits Tongue." Fabric and movement create a rhythmic fusion, highlighting the dynamic dialogue between power and spatial control.

3D Mini Cheongsam Design Workshop: An Artistic Journey from Idea to Reality

A group of secondary school students and students from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University's School of Professional and Continuing Studies (SPCSE) interested in fashion design recently participated in a 3D Mini Cheongsam Design Workshop, where they learned the process from graphic design to 3D production. They then handcrafted a 1:2 scale 3D mini cheongsam. The finished product was displayed to the public at the Central Market, showcasing the fusion of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary creativity.

Dr. Liu Ruiyi, Director of Student Affairs at the School of Professional and Continuing Education (SPCSE) of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University, said: "Through exhibits, martial arts demonstrations, costume deconstruction, performances, and interactive experiences, the public can appreciate the unique aesthetic of the "harmony and flexibility" of Chinese martial arts and traditional Chinese clothing from different perspectives through four themes: Wing Chun, Tai Chi, Nunchaku, and Cheongsam. This allows the public to rediscover the contemporary significance of the fusion of strength and flexibility in Chinese culture." He added, "The exhibition also features interactive workshops and guided tours, where visitors can learn Wing Chun moves, see dynamic projections of Tai Chi costumes, touch cheongsam fabric, and even try out nunchakus. This journey from viewing to participating allows the public to become more than just spectators, engaging in the cultural experience.

Ms. Lin Chunju, Chairperson of the Hong Kong Chinese Cultural Activities Promotion Association, said, "2120 is a platform for people to breathe culture, connecting cultural heritage practitioners from different fields with the public. Since its establishment, the Hong Kong Chinese Cultural Activities Promotion Association has consistently championed the promotion of China's fine traditional culture. The Association is committed to promoting cultural heritage and innovation through three key areas, fostering the shared values ​​of all sectors of society." "To foster an understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture." She further emphasized the importance of education and heritage: "It is the Association's responsibility to inspire a love of Chinese culture among the younger generation. This year, we held the first Intangible Cultural Heritage Cheongsam Design Competition, open to students from primary and secondary schools across Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Polytechnic University's School of Professional and Continuing Education. Students will personally create 3D mini cheongsams from their designs, transforming them into walkable garments and giving them new life."

"Enjoying the Moon Together": Mid-Autumn Festival, Cultural Reunion

Coinciding with the Mid-Autumn Festival, the "Chinese Clothing and Martial Arts: Enjoying the Moon Together" cultural experience and interactive workshop will be held on October 6th on the ground floor of the Central Market, creating a cultural evening feast that blends tradition and innovation. The most distinctive workshop is the lantern-making workshop, where residents can personally make bamboo lanterns, from framing the bamboo frame and mounting paper to drawing and inscribing, experiencing the complete traditional lantern-making techniques and creating unique Mid-Autumn lanterns. Enthusiasts of traditional crafts can participate in the sugar-blowing workshop, where they can blow sugar syrup into festive shapes such as the Jade Rabbit and stars, revisiting sweet memories passed down from ancient times to the present day. The market also offers free rental of Hanfu for adults and children, allowing residents to enjoy elegant Hanfu, their flowing sleeves flowing, and take photos under the bright moon. Evening performances such as the "Hanguan Yueyue" opera performance and the dazzling "Mid-Autumn Night Firefly Nunchaku" show will add a rich cultural atmosphere to the festival. Registration for these exciting events is now open. The public is welcome to register through the CCG Hearts app to enjoy a culturally rich Mid-Autumn Festival.

"Hanfu and Martial Arts. Celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival Together" Cultural Experience and Interactive Workshop

Date and Time: October 6, 2025, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM (To be confirmed)

Address: G/F Oasis, Central Market

Admission: Free. The public can register through the CCG Hearts app.