Through the veil of rain

When you look at this painting, do you think the scene is set in Hong Kong, or in other place? This piece captures Mandy’s view from a double-decker bus in London, where familiar surroundings bring a strikingly different feeling. Double-decker buses are an icon of Hong Kong, yet they originated in the UK. The deep historical connection between Hong Kong and the UK has created a sense of familiarity for many Hongkongers, a sentiment that accompanied Mandy throughout her studies abroad.
As Mandy reboards a double-decker bus in the UK, familiar seats frame an entirely different view outside the window. In the UK’s rainy weather, the scenery is often blurred, creating an illusion of Hong Kong-like traces in the misty outlines. By day, the Victorian architecture on the British streets stands out; at night, the brightly lit shops and busy traffic make Mandy feel as if she’s back in Hong Kong’s familiar cityscape.
In this vast, foreign country, many Hongkongers have come to start a new life. Mandy met many who are also adjusting, feeling the dedication to keep Hong Kong’s culture alive. Even in a distant land, the connection and sense of belonging among Hongkongers have never faded. This artwork seeks to portray the traces of Hong Kong that its people strive to keep alive abroad, and the deep emotional bonds that remain strong across continents, even as they hold each other in their thoughts across thousands of miles.