Usually at this time of the year we are busy in closing the books and filing returns for the taxation year that ends in March, at the same time attending (or even working on) arts events in town. This year, we are, of course, all grounded at home. It might be a good idea to share with you highlights of what we have done.
For the third year we worked with the Hong Kong Arts Development Council on the education kits for “JOCKEY CLUB New Arts Power”. It has always been an enjoyable process to discuss with artists what they want to achieve with these little guidebooks, and then to develop the content – from digging up background information to conducting interviews, from devising scenario questions to designing little games to amuse the readers. We were also responsible for the copywriting and coordination with designers on layout matters, and oversaw everything until they are ready for print.
We also worked on a few film-related projects, but with very different scopes. We worked on the Human Rights Documentary Film Festival for Amnesty International Hong Kong, mainly on the operations but also took care of media relations, social media content, opening ceremony, invitation of guest speakers for post-screening talks, etc. The challenge was to organise events amidst social movements, but it was also at such times that a film festival on human rights becomes unprecedentedly relevant. We were also commissioned as event manager for the launch party of the NEXT Film platform, but unfortunately the event was cancelled at last minute also due to the social unrest.
What we did for Youth Square’s movie week was totally different. We were the programmer instead of the event manager – from selecting films, obtaining screening rights to hosting post-screening talks. The challenge was more on balancing the social relevance of the programme content and the many practical constraints. We were glad to be able to screen the 35mm copy of Persepolis (thanks to the distributors!) and also to conclude the week with Capernaum – two films that we loved so much.
Hopefully in the year to come we will be able to work on more interesting projects, and add value to cultural and creative initiatives. We have no idea when the pandemic situation will end, but until then, let’s stay home and stay healthy.