Embroidery, beading, drawnwork – these intricate tasks were once skilfully carried out by many of our older generations. Upon closer look, they also illustrate the defining qualities of commercial craft production and circulation in 20th-century Hong Kong, such as systematisation of skilled work, female labour and leadership, adaptation for export markets, and alienation between makers and consumers.

Busy Needles examines embroidery materials from Maryknoll Convent School Foundation, drawnwork from Swatow that circulated through Hong Kong, beadwork and its cottage industry, traditional kwan kwa marriage gowns and more, at the same time encouraging alternative and personal views of craft in Hong Kong.