GET INVOLVED !
ABOUT US
Urban Poet's inaugural exhibition at Anvil Centre, Vancouver. Art in frame by (from top left to bottom right) NoPaperStudio, Dorothy Tsang, Don Mak & Isaac Spellman.
Welcome to Urban Poet Hong Kong (香港都市詩人), an arts and cultural initiative fueled by the passion and creativity of the global Hong Kong artist community.Founded in early 2023 by a group of graduates of Literary and Cultural Studies at the University of Hong Kong, our mission is straightforward: to bridge the gap between Hong Kong artists and the world.At Urban Poet Hong Kong, we're committed to providing valuable opportunities for Hong Kong artists to showcase their work and connect with potential clients. We pride ourselves on curating impactful exhibitions that go beyond the visual realm.Our events feature:
- meet-and-greet sessions with artists
- pop-up shops
- collaborations between businesses and featured artists, and more.These collaborations aim to give back to the global Hong Kong artist community by providing avenues for their artwork to be showcased and distributed. Read on to learn about our impact strategies.
OUR IMPACT
STRATEGIES
Through the artist programs at Urban Poet Hong Kong,
we champion artistic potential and measure success by the transformative journeys of our featured artists.
Making an impact in the world of
Hong Kong creative diaspora,
one project at a time.
Read on to learn about how we implement our impact investing strategies to achieve community engagement and cultural preservation while fostering economic empowerment and global cultural exchange through our Artist Program.
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CULTURAL PROMOTION
| IMPLEMENTATION | IMPACT |
|---|---|
| ⤑ Bridge the gap between the Hong Kong creative diaspora and the world through arts and cultural initiatives. ⤑ Showcase Hong Kong artists globally to express the spirit of Hong Kong through art, transcending boundaries. | Global cultural exchange Urban Poet's art exhibitions provides a platform for Hong Kong artists to showcase their work internationally, promoting cultural exchange and understanding. |
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ARTIST SUPPORT
| IMPLEMENTATION | IMPACT |
|---|---|
| ⤑ Collaborate with Hong Kong immigrant artists to create limited edition merchandise, preserving and promoting Hong Kong's cultural heritage. ⤑ Sponsor photographers and videographers to capture the essence of Hong Kong community events in Canada, highlighting the contributions of Canadian-Hong Kong business owners. | Economic empowerment Collaborating with Hong Kong immigrant artists empowers them economically by providing opportunities to showcase and monetize their talents. |
Through our Artist Program, Tokyo-based product designer MOMOZAZA JP , Hong Kong fahsion label VICTORIA.HK and other global Hong Kong artists are able to distribute their works across North America through HOLY DUCK CHILI, a Vancouver-based retail busi
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
| IMPLEMENTATION | IMPACT |
|---|---|
| ⤑ Assist Hong Kong businesses in bringing their products to North America, facilitating economic growth and cross-cultural exchange. ⤑ Sponsor Hong Kong community events in Canada, providing exhibition supplies and arranging meet-and-greet activities for artists, fostering community cohesion and cultural exchange. | Fostering diversity By introducing talents in our Artist Program to the world, Urban Poet Hong Kong amplifies diverse voices and perspectives within the arts community. Through our projects and initiatives, Urban Poet Hong Kong promotes cultural diversity and inclusivity, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation among diverse audiences worldwide. |
URBAN POET
ART SHOWS
Urban Poet Hong Kong serves as a platform for diverse artistic expressions, showcasing the talent and creativity of Hong Kong artists from different backgrounds and regions.
WHAT WE DO
Exhibitions
Pop-Up Shows
Collaborations
Urban Poet Design Show 2024 in North Vancouver, BC.
Urban Poet Inaugural Show 2023 at Anvil Centre, Vancouver.
Hong Kong Nostalgic Collective Exhibition at Markham, Toronto in 2023 Fall.
Tokyo-based Hong Kong Designer Momozaza JP collaborated with Canada's Holy Duck Chili launching a merchandise paying tribute to Hong Kong's 'Bing Sutt' diners.
Bridging the Hong Kong
Creative Diaspora with the world
By collaborating with the Hong Kong creative diaspora, Urban Poet Hong Kong amplifies diverse voices and perspectives within the arts community.
In Urban Poet Artist Program, our exhibitions and pop-up events serve as platforms for artists to gain recognition and exposure on an international scale.Our journey began with the inaugural exhibition, "Don’t be a Stranger 不要成為陌生人’’ a heartfelt ode to the spirit of Hong Kong portrayed through the captivating works of 13 talented artists. Organized by the Vancouver Hong Kong House and held at the Anvil Centre in Vancouver, British Columbia, this debut showcase attracted the gaze of approximately 6,000 participants, echoing the sentiments of home across distant shores.
Sharing Hong Kong Art and Culture Beyond Boundaries
Through our projects and initiatives, we promote cultural diversity and inclusivity, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation among diverse audiences worldwide.
Building upon this foundation, our second exhibition, "Hong Kong Nostalgia - an Introspective Retrospective for the Future 香港懷舊合集——回顧省思," unfolded at Toronto's Assembly Market at the Markham Museum in Ontario, Canada. Featuring the evocative creations of 16 Hong Kong artists, this exhibition served as a poignant reminder of our shared heritage and aspirations. Witnessed by more than 6,000 attendees, it further reinforced our belief in the power of art to transcend boundaries and spark meaningful dialogue.
'The storytelling element in creating art is like composing a poem. Every artist is an Urban Poet.'
URBAN POET
DIRECTORY
Previously, Urban Poet exhibitions have proudly showcased the works of over 40 Hong Kong artists hailing from diverse corners of the globe.
Together we give back to
the art community
The primary aim of Urban Poet's artshows is to act as a beacon for Hong Kong's art and culture, uniting them under one roof and sharing them with audiences worldwide.
Welcome to Urban Poet Hong Kong
ARTIST DIRECTORY
Explore our directory of featured Urban Poets below and join us in our mission to make a lasting impact through the power of art and philanthropy.
《香港老美》- Photographer & Author (Hong Kong SAR)
Alan Wu- Collector @hktaxitoronto (Toronto, Canada)
Don Mak- Illustrator (Hong Kong SAR)
Justin Wong- Photographer (Toronto, Canada)
juk gwan on hau - Lifestyle Label (Hong Kong SAR)
Momography 巫墨筆歡 - Calligrapher (Hong Kong SAR)
MOMOZAZA JP - Product Designer (Tokyo, Japan)
Chloe Chan @littleoceanart - Illustrator (Vancouver, Canada)
Hang 恒仔 @ NO PAPER STUDIO - Illustrator (Hong Kong SAR)
Kate Lau @laugahey - Jewelry Designer (London, United Kingdom)
Dorothy Tsang @holyduckchili , Graphic Designer (Hong Kong SAR)
Mercedes Ng - Painter (Salt Lake City, America)
Yuen Ka Chun, Miles 袁家俊 - Photographer (Hong Kong SAR)
Ellen Lo 叫我姐姐 - Digital Illustrator (Toronto, Canada)
Asa Wong @drawmud - Illustrator (Toronto, Canada)
Owen Yu @photoperspectivehk - Photographer (Hong Kong SAR)
寳典 @pookoq - Calligrapher (Toronto, Canada)
Wong Chun Ho, Harris ( Neck ) - Sculptor (Hong Kong SAR)
Isaac Spellman - Illustrator (Hong Kong SAR)
Jessica Lui - Coffee Artist (Vancouver, Canada)
Salted Fish Life ( 鹹魚人生 ) - Illustrator (Hong Kong SAR)
峽彼樂園 Gappyland - multi-media artist (Hong Kong SAR)
VICTORIA - Fashion Designer (Hong Kong SAR)
BEYOND ART SHOWS
Making an impact in
the world of Hong Kong creative diaspora, one project at a time.
Beyond mere exhibitions, we facilitate meaningful connections between Hong Kong artists and Canadian businesses, fostering opportunities for collaboration and commerce. By facilitating these trades, we strive to not only create job opportunities and expand the stockist network for independent artists in Hong Kong but also to enhance their portfolios and extend their reach to potential clients beyond our borders.
WIth Cultural Connect Art Trade Program,
your client base is no longer limited to local.
Click to read more on our retail program.
Are you the owner of a retail business or an art space?
Urban Poet Hong Kong presents
香港都市詩人
非牟利全球香港藝術家社區
誠邀您參加
Vancouver Art Show 2025
溫哥華藝術展2025
Sunday May 11th, 2025
VAN HK FAIR by Vancouver Hong Kong House
Shipyards @ North Vancouver
Urban Poet is a non-profit art and cultural initiative aiming to connect Hong Kong artists with the global community.We're thrilled to extend an exclusive invitation to you for our upcoming Urban Poet Art Show in Vancouver this May.
香港都市詩人展覽旨在通過不同對懷舊的表達方式，為未來藝術概念發展的基礎打好基石，以保護香港文化。我們誠邀您參加我們即將在加拿大舉行的香港藝術展。
請注意: 參展藝術家不必親自出席展覽。藝術品將由本會支援交接處理助展覽用途。
Vancouver Art Show 2025
Urban Poet 2024 Vancouver Show will be taken place at the Shipyards in North Vancouver on May 5th, 2024.
Live music, art show and marketplace featuring Hong Kong artisans at our upcoming show. The expected size of audience is 8,000 - making it the biggest overseas Hong Kong community event.
Previous success: our art show at the Vancouver Hong Kong Fair has captivated eyes of over 6,000 attendees, ranging from Hong Kongers to Canadian locals and to tourists.
展覽主題：
「香港印記：地圖與氣味的時光軌跡」
展覽詳情「香港印記：地圖與氣味的時光軌跡」透過歷史地圖與氣味藝術，探索記憶、地景與感官經驗的交匯，捕捉香港不斷變遷的城市風貌。香港歷史和設計物品收藏家 MODERNISM 呈獻《Lost & Collected - 香港地圖。舊物》，精選珍貴地圖與文獻，描繪數十年來街區、商貿與城市規劃的變遷。同時，Ollie & Co. 以手工香氛重塑香港日常——從熱鬧市集到茶餐廳的暖意，氣味喚起記憶深處的城市故事。視覺與嗅覺的交融，使《香港印記》 成為一場沉浸式旅程，讓觀眾在地圖的紋理與空氣中的氣息裡，尋找屬於自己的香港印記。
Traces of Hong Kong: Mapping
Memories Through Sight & Scent
"Traces of Hong Kong" explores the intersection of memory, geography, and sensory experience, bringing the city's evolving landscapes to life through historical cartography and scent.Featuring "Lost & Collected – Maps & Things of Hong Kong," by the Hong Kong history and design collectibles group MODERNISM, this exhibition showcases rare maps and documents spanning decades, tracing the transformation of neighborhoods, trade routes, and urban spaces.Alongside, Ollie & Co. reimagines Hong Kong’s past through handcrafted scents that evoke the city's everyday moments—from bustling markets to the warmth of a cha chaan teng.By bridging the visual and the olfactory, "Traces of Hong Kong" invites visitors to navigate the city’s history in a way that is both intimate and immersive, where memory lingers in the details of a map and in the air itself.
Benefits of Becoming our Show Helper
加入志願者團隊的理由：
➔助力香港文化的保育與推廣
Contribute to the preservation and promotion of Hong Kong culture through art.
➔參與展覽策劃與展示過程
Get involved in the planning and execution of cultural exhibitions that highlight Hong Kong’s rich art history.
➔深入了解香港藝術家的作品
Gain in-depth knowledge of the cultural works of five Hong Kong artists featured in the exhibition and merchandise section, enhancing your cultural awareness and artistic appreciation.
➔成為文化大使，協助展覽解說
Act as a cultural ambassador by explaining the significance of the artists' works and their connection to Hong Kong’s cultural heritage to exhibition visitors.
➔參與「Shop for Good」零售部分，支持本地香港藝術家
Be involved in the “Shop for Good” retail section, where you will have the opportunity to support Hong Kong artists by assisting the sales of their works.
➔免費參加訓練課程，提升藝術知識與溝通技巧
Access a training session by featured artists and Urban Poet's curating team prior to the event to enhance your knowledge of the artists and their works, while developing communication and interpersonal skills.
➔增強雙語溝通能力
Proficiency in both Cantonese and English is required, helping you to connect with a wider audience and enhancing your bilingual communication skills.
➔建立專業網絡，拓展人脈
Expand your professional network by interacting with artists, curators, and attendees, including those with Hong Kong roots in the cultural and art sectors.
Our Past Projects
過往展覽
Our art exhibitions showcasing global Hong Kong talent have already captivated over 12,000 participants, and we're just getting started.
我們的藝術展覽展示了全球香港藝術人才，已吸引了超過12,000名參與者，而我們只是剛剛開始。
URBAN POET
ARTIST PROGRAM
Urban Poet is a cultural hub to connect artists with global audiences, spreading the unspoken words to many corners of the world.
We believe every piece of artwork is a poetic expression of an artist's perspective and a story of its own.
HOW DO ARTISTS BENEFIT FROM
JOINING URBAN POET'S ART SHOWS?
Our approach to philanthropy at Urban Poet is straightforward: we believe in the power of storytelling.We champion artistic potential and our results are measured by the transformative journeys of our artists. Every Urban Poet's narrative is distinct, and our initiatives reflect the diversity of those we serve.
We partner with forward-thinking individuals and communities in both Hong Kong and North America, united in our dedication to driving positive change.Our art exhibitions showcasing global Hong Kong talent have already captivated over 12,000 participants, and we're just getting started.
At Urban Poet Hong Kong, we're dedicated to empowering Hong Kong artists by offering them invaluable opportunities to showcase their creativity and connect with prospective clients.
Through our meticulously curated exhibitions and dynamic pop-up events, we provide artists with platforms to garner recognition and exposure on a global scale.
Urban Poet 2023 Toronto Show at Markham Museum
Courtesy to Hong Kong illustrator Drawmud and other featured Urban Poets for their contribution.
2023 Toronto Exhibition titled 'The Hong Kong Nostalgic Collective: An Introspective Retrospective for the Future'
Looking ahead, we're excited to continue hosting art shows and fostering collaborations that unite Hong Kong's creative talents with the global community. Join us in celebrating the vibrant artistry of Hong Kong and bridging cultures through creativity by participating in our upcoming art shows. Join our Artist Program today!
Visitors engaging with featured Urban Poet Justin Wong's citysnaps at 2023 Urban Poet Toronto Exhibition.
URBAN POET
ARTIST PROGRAM
Program Eligibility
如希望參加 Urban Poet 藝術家計劃，您必須符合以下要求：To participate in Urban Poet Artist Program, you must fulfill the following criteria:
- 年滿18歲或以上Be 18 years of age or older.- 同意 Urban Poet 的尊重和友善行為政策，並願意在安全環境中考慮和與他人合作。Agree to Urban Poet policies for respectful and kind behavior and be considerate and willing to work with others in a safe environment.
Urban Poet 不會因種族、信仰、膚色、種族、國籍、宗教、性取向、性別表達、年齡、身體和精神能力、退伍軍人身份、軍事或婚姻狀況而進行歧視。Urban Poet Hong Kong does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender expression, age, physical and mental ability, veteran status, military, or marital status.
如果您對以上事項有任何疑問，請發送電子郵件至我們的計劃團隊：[email protected]If you have any questions about the above items, please send an email to our program team: [email protected].
We want to give you a hand landing your next artist gig.
simply fill out this form and you will be in touch shortly.
2025 ARTIST INTAKE
請向我們發送包含以下信息的電子郵件：Please send us an email with the below information:- 您的姓名 your name- 您的社交媒體鏈接 your social media links- 藝術品類別 category of artwork- 告訴我們您打算提交的藝術品的故事 tell us about the artwork you are looking to submit- 藝術品尺寸和媒介 size of your artwork and medium當上述詳細信息準備就緒時，請發送至 [email protected]（主題標題：2025年溫哥華展：藝術家申請）When the above details are ready, please send to [email protected] (Subject title: 2025 Vancouver Show: Artist Application)您的提交是否被接受將取決於我們的評審團決定。
Whether or not your submission will be accepted will subject to our jury's decision.
GET INVOLVED
AS A BUSINESS
You can help fund our art exhibitions and Artist Programs in various ways.
Get involved
as a business
Have a direct and immediate impact with your contribution as a Program Partner. Being an Urban Poet Program Partner allows you to make a meaningful connection.
Urban Poet hosted ''Don't be a Stranger'' art show and a Pop-up Store at the Vancouver Hong Kong Fair 2023 at Anvil Centre, New Westminster, amassing over 6,000 attendees.
WHAT IS A PROGRAM PARTNER?
Program Partners fund entire large-scale projects ranging from Artist Program to cultural initiatives, fostering creativity in our communities and make a difference in the world of arts and culture.
Funding Strategies
Our global community of program partners supports and drives the artistic endeavors of Urban Poet Artist Program. These visionary individuals collaborate with us to fund our Artist Programs because they want to know that their generosity is being used strategically, in a scalable and sustainable way. We ensure that 100% of their support goes directly towards empowering artists and promoting cultural exchange.
Featured Urban Poet Justin Wong had previously showcased his videography work in motion at Anvil Centre, New Westminster, where the Vancouver Hong Kong Fair 2023 took place.
Through Cultural Connect Art Trade program, featured Urban Poet MOMOZAZA JP is now able to reach the North American market through collaborating with Canada-based retail business Holy Duck Chili.
Read on to learn about how you can contribute to this cause through your business.
RETAIL BUSINESSES
Introducing our Art Trade Program
Cultural Connect
By selling the work of Hong Kong artists, businesses contribute to cultural exchange and understanding, allowing customers to experience the richness and diversity of Hong Kong's artistic heritage.
To date, merchandises by artist participants in our Cultural Connect Art Trade program have reached 15 stores across Canada and distributed internationally.
EXHIBITION SPACE
Showcase unique artwork in your studio space!
Partnering with Urban Poet allows businesses to feature unique and culturally rich artwork from Hong Kong artists in their establishments, adding vibrancy and diversity to their spaces.
TALENT VOLUNTEERING
Ever specialized skill matter in curating a meaningful, storytelling art show.
Businesses can contribute their talents, whether it's through photography, editorial writing, or other creative endeavors, to help facilitate Urban Poet's work and amplify the voices of Hong Kong artists and storytellers.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
100% of your support goes directly towards empowering Hong Kong artists and promoting cultural exchange.
Businesses can support Urban Poet's Artist Program and art exhibitions financially, ensuring that talented Hong Kong artists have the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
Join us in making a difference through the power of art and storytelling today!
TOGETHER,
WE MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Urban Poet invites businesses to join us in championing creativity, cultural expression, and community empowerment through our diverse projects and collaborations to support Hong Kong artists and storytellers.
Please send us an email to discuss program partnership: [email protected]
Cultural Connect
ART TRADE PROGRAM
By partnering with Hong Kong artisans, we provide them with the opportunity to showcase their artwork in retail stores and galleries, connecting them with a broader audience and enabling them to grow a sustainable source of income.
HOW DO HONG KONG TALENTS BENEFIT FROM
THIS TRADE PROGRAM?
Despite their talent and creativity, many Hong Kong artists face challenges in reaching international audiences and generating sustainable income from their artwork. Geographical barriers, limited resources, and lack of exposure can hinder their ability to break through boundaries and showcase their work on a global scale.With Cultural Connect Art Trade Program, we're on a mission to change that. Our program empowers Hong Kong's storytellers to transcend geographical and other barriers, allowing their artwork to reach international audiences and generate income for them.n
Urban Poet Hong Kong presents
Cultural Connect
Art Trade Program bridging Artisans
with Global Businesses
BENEFITS OF BECOMING A RETAIL PARTNER
Through this trade program, retailers gain access to a curated selection of unique artwork, enriching their offerings and attracting new customers. Meanwhile, artists benefit from expanded market reach, increased sales opportunities, and the potential to transform their careers.
BE A GAMECHANGER
Join us in our philanthropic mission to foster economic growth, artistic innovation, and social impact with Cultural Connect Art Trade Program.
Cultural Connect
ART TRADE PROGRAM
Through Cultural Connect Art Trade Program, your business have the unique opportunity to showcase the work of Hong Kong artisans in your store, enriching your product offerings and captivating your customers with unique and inspiring pieces.
shop for GOOD
Every sale made through our program directly supports the livelihoods of these talented individuals, allowing them to pursue their passion and build sustainable careers.
Kinokuniya New York. (1073 Avenue of the Americas New York, NY 10018)
Nikoniko Gifts (2181 Union St., San Francisco, CA, USA.)
Chunky Things. (946 Mei Ling Way, Los Angeles, CA 90012 USA)
Foo Hung Curios . (168 E Pender St, Vancouver, BC V6A 1T3 Canada)
Merchandises created by participant artists of Culture Connect Art Trade Program are now on the shelves of over 80 stores across North America.
APPLY TO BE A
Cultural Connect
RETAIL PARTNER
Please send us an email to discuss retail partnership: [email protected]
OTHER BUSINESS CONTRIBUTIONS
You can help fund our art exhibitions and Artist Programs in various ways.
apply to be a
PROGRAM PARTNER
Provide Hong Kong artists with the support and resources they need to amplify their voices and share their stories with the world.By breaking down barriers and connecting artists with opportunities, together we are unlocking the full potential of Hong Kong's vibrant creative community.
Thank you.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to these businesses and organizational bodies that have graciously offered their resources and help in our artist programs, enriching our community's cultural landscape.
DRIVE POSITIVE
CHANGES TOGETHER
Please send us an email to discuss retail partnership: [email protected]