Hong Kong between the storms

A short break in Hong Kong before Australia and whilst the weather is warmer it is certainly familiar. Rain, rain and more rain and lots of it.Still at least its not freezing. I am staying in the Tin Lau area of the Island (east of Causeway bay. Tin Lau is goddess of the sea and very important to Hong Kong people. I wonder if she is also invoking the rain? Below are a few images of the local temple and the night scene just outside my room.

On first full day I did the touristy thing and took a tram ride up to the Peak and then joined all the Chinese keep fit and dog walkers on the long walk down. Th
e sun actually brook through for a while and allowed a lovely viewing of the botanical garden and  Battery Point on the way down. I even managed to continue through the longest escalator route to central. Using the steps as the escalator routes uphill. Then took the Star Ferry to Kowloon and then back to Wan Chai. Walked along region of Causeway taking in some noodles before a welcome return to bed.

Sparrows after my sweet bun

Peak view tram and view

Sketch Kowloon Park

Kowloon near the harbour Hong Kong and me reflected in the buildings 

Buildings Causeway Bay

On second day took a small bus to Stanley and the market. I have to say, I was drawn more to the walks and the Military Cemetery rather than the market. Most of the day dodging the storms. They have their own Tin Hau Temple, with a festival and dragon dancing on the day.

Tin Hau at Stanley

Offering at Pak Tai Shrine (God of the North and special and special to fishermen)

It is still pouring with rain..which is why I am taking some time to update my b log..but need to go out to get some noodles or rice and dumplings.

Entering Autumn,Leaving 'Spring'

Well, the solstice has passed and we are officially in 'Spring' though it is more like Winter. More confusing, I leave shortly for Australia via Hong Kong so will enter Autumn bit will feel more like Summer. Will need clothes for four seasons (isn't there a pop group in there somewhere?)

I will update this blog with sketches and images as and when I can. Meanwhile, I leave my other half (Derek) doing a 'Spring Clean'. He is a very handy guy so we will be putting stairs into our loft to make better storage and access and further down the line, kitting out our old shed as an outdoor room/studio.

Before leaving, I am reminded of a the winter trees, Witch Hazel and cold weather behind:

Witch Hazel 15x15cm

Witch Hazel 

 

 

 A sketch of pots at West Dean pottery studio and photographs from the windows of my house

Winter Tree and Bowl 15x15cm