The craft of Hong Kong bamboo birdcage making, as an intangible cultural heritage and a vessel of urban memory, embodies the vitality of everyday life and the ingenuity of craftsmanship.  “Opening Birdcages”, centered on the core imagery of "a birdcage in hand," traces the evolution of this craft from a mundane pastime to an art form while confronting its existential crisis in contemporary society.

"A birdcage in hand" represents a dialogue between artisans and nature, preserving the endangered bamboo weaving techniques. Veteran craftsmen invest decades into perfecting a single cage, yet struggle against shrinking demand due to urbanization and a lack of successors. Through interviews with artisans, the book reveals the intricate complexity of the craft and uncovers cultural resilience hidden in urban alleys—such as the "Bird Street" in Mong Kok’s Bird Garden, a living showcase of birdcage craftsmanship and avian trade, and a social hub for elderly bird enthusiasts. However, urban renewal and commercialization increasingly threaten such traditional spaces.

Facing these challenges, the author argues that cultural preservation requires "dynamic continuity": upholding the artisan spirit encapsulated in "a birdcage in hand" while reinterpreting the social significance of spaces like "Bird Street" to bridge generational divides and sustain this cultural lineage.

Language: Cantonese

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