何穎嘉

Wing Ka Ho Jimmi

If the border disappears, will the names of the cities vanish too? Should my identity be restored to its original state?

I was born in a small city in southern China. I have often crossed national borders and travelled between two major cities for family reasons since I was young. This has made a deep impression on me. Over the years, my identity shifted from a traveller to a resident. Like many mainland Chinese, I longed for new opportunities and a fresh perspective on life in Hong Kong. I slowly and gradually integrated into Hong Kong society and developed an indescribable emotional connection to this city.

The Shenzhen River is located to the north of Hong Kong. It is the dividing line between Hong Kong and mainland China. Hundreds of Thousands of people pass through by the river daily to work or reunite with their families.

As the colonial rule by the British came to an end, the border ceased its function as to be a geographical marker. However, it has diverted to be a symbol of self-identity for everyone. The intrusion of Chinese politics through the changes of times filled the city with a grave and depressive atmosphere. In times of turbulence, some may choose to turn a blind eye and be anaesthetised by the current situation, while others will fight in despair for the values that they hold.; As for those who are disheartened, they may reluctantly choose to leave the city that they once called home.

Little by little, I became confused about my identity as my future in the city is uncertain. The interpretation of this line of border becomes quite different. Through my immigration experience, this project presents the connection between history and contemporary society, the integration and contradiction of identity as a migrant, the process, and the pain, thus creating a unique sense of belonging to Hong Kong.