Fine cuisine and contemporary art don’t usually make perfect bedfellows. However they should make for a grand pairing at the Asia Art Archive library’s first-ever open weekend. One of the centrepieces of the two-day event is a ‘meals and conversations’ concept, where visitors can dine on some tasty grub while chatting with local artists about contemporary themes. One of those artists is heritage purveyor and photographer Simon Go, who has picked out the delicious bites for sharing. We expect the conversation to be tasty too.

The weekend event is all about contemporary Asian art. Those who grace the venue can research, learn, design and share their creative ideas, as well as enjoying all sorts of art-related activities for young and old. Another highlight is The Art of Storytelling, where kids and parents are welcome to join artists like Clara Cheung and Justin Wong (also parents) who share creative and fun ways to engage children through storytelling. There are plenty of talks and workshops in between on the same theme of contemporary art.

Every event over the weekend is free to attend provided you’ve RSVP’d beforehand. The whole thing is part of an initiative to bring more people through the doors of the AAA. They’ve got a collection of more than 34,000 items relating to contemporary Asian art which is accessible to the public as well as being searchable through an online catalogue. And, commemorating the 15th anniversary of Hong Kong’s handover, the AAA is displaying material from its collection relating to this important historical event. But regardless of whether you’re a history or art buff, this open weekend is a prime opportunity to check out what the AAA has to offer.

Jess Kwong

The Open Weekend happens at the Asia Art Archive from Saturday July 7 to Sunday July 8. Check www.aaa.org.hk for a full schedule of events.