HONG KONG — The Central Harbourfront has been transformed into a botanical wonderland this March as internationally acclaimed artist CJ Hendry brings her viral “Flower Market” installation to Asia for the first time. Located within a bespoke greenhouse at AIA Vitality Park, the exhibition replaces the fleeting scent of Hong Kong’s traditional wet markets with a permanent, plush landscape of over 150,000 textile blooms. Running from March 19 to 22, the event has become the centerpiece of Hong Kong Art Month, drawing thousands of visitors to a tactile exploration of nature and artifice.
A New Vision of Botany
Originally from Brisbane and now a resident of New York, CJ Hendry has built a global reputation for hyperrealistic drawings and large-scale experiential art. “Flower Market” represents her most ambitious project to date, challenging the boundaries between everyday objects and high art. Unlike the nearby Prince Edward market, where stems wilt and petals bruise, Hendry’s garden is composed entirely of fabric.
The installation features 26 distinct floral designs, ranging from recognizable sunflowers and violets to intricate thistles and chrysanthemums. Visitors navigate a verdant hedge maze before entering a glass pavilion where the sheer volume of oversized, soft sculptures creates a surreal, sensory-altering environment. Hendry describes the work as a “playful, childlike adventure,” designed to provide a moment of joy before guests return to the urban hustle of the city.
Culture and Commission
To honor the exhibition’s Hong Kong debut, Hendry introduced two site-specific commissions that ground the international project in local heritage:
- The Bauhinia: A plush rendition of Hong Kong’s official floral emblem, reimagined as a soft, monumental sculpture that invites reflection on cultural identity.
- The Henderson Flower: An Allium bloom commissioned to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Henderson Land. This piece mirrors the large-scale sculpture at The Henderson building, symbolizing resilience and unity.
Art for the Public
In a month often dominated by exclusive auctions and high-end galleries, Hendry’s installation stands out for its democratic approach. Admission is free with registration, and the artist’s “accessible” philosophy extends to the takeaway experience: every ticket holder can select one complimentary plush flower to keep, with additional stems available for purchase at HK$38.
Industry analysts note that the rapid sell-out of registration—which closed within 24 hours—underscores a growing public appetite for immersive art that prioritizes physical interaction over traditional viewing.
Visitor Information
For those with secured tickets, the installation is a brief walk from Central Station (Exit A) or Hong Kong Station (Exit F). Organizers recommend arriving during weekday hours for a more tranquil experience. While the greenhouse is expected to remain at capacity, the surrounding Central Harbourfront promenade offers a scenic backdrop for the event, which remains the must-see highlight of the 2026 spring art season.
The “Flower Market” serves as a poignant reminder of the human desire to capture beauty in a permanent form, leaving an indelible, plush mark on the city’s skyline.