In addition to admiring the classical architecture, visiting Tai Kwun allows you to learn about the history of the former Victoria Prison through its cultural heritage. Tai Kwun recently introduced two new permanent exhibitions on the cultural heritage of Victoria Prison: “Block B and Block D of Victoria Prison,” which narrate the history of Victoria Prison from multiple perspectives.
The two exhibitions were curated by Dr. Chung Miu-fun, the Director of Cultural Affairs at Tai Kwun, and curator Chen Jia-ying. The creative process included audience surveys, consultations with scholars, interdisciplinary research, and direct involvement of relevant stakeholders, especially those who have personal experiences with this historic prison. Through the latest research data, the exhibitions showcase the complex history of Victoria Prison and the real experiences of the people inside its walls. They explore the prison from its concept, design, function, and the lived experiences it created, while also understanding its historical evolution and symbolic significance.
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The exhibition includes the voices of former staff from the former Victoria Prison, real individuals who were once incarcerated, as well as diverse perspectives from Professor Whitehead and others involved in prison ministry. Through various creative mediums such as graffiti and artwork by inmates, it offers a glimpse into their inner world and true emotions, highlighting how the Tai Kwun has transformed from a former prison into a cultural heritage site that transcends barriers and connects everyone, including marginalized and vulnerable groups.
The B Warehouse Cultural Heritage Exhibition explores the life behind bars and reflects on the significance of this place to the past, present, and future as it transforms into a cultural heritage site. As for the D Warehouse Exhibition Hall, it is located within the preserved cells of the former radiating prison wing, inviting viewers to contemplate the trauma and healing brought about by prison life. Through a series of precious historical photographs, the exhibition depicts this heritage site as a testament to prison reform, while also showcasing the stories of resilience and transformation through artworks created by inmates.
In addition, to complement the new permanent exhibition on cultural heritage, the new series “Dialogues at Tai Kwun” will focus on prisons to further explore the topics of prison work, Restorative Justice, and related artistic creations. Additionally, a new online documentary series “Walking and Talking (Part 3)” will be released after the opening of the permanent exhibition, showcasing different individuals’ personal experiences at Victoria Prison.
New Cultural Heritage Permanent Exhibition – Victoria Prison: B Block and D Block Date: From now on Time: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM Location: Tai Kwun B Block and D Block
Photos provided by Tai Kwun.
