play.ground is a collection of colourful sculptures by Chinese University fine arts graduate Jaffa Lam. Based on the theme of toys, her works (above) are made of natural wood and an industrial material known as hot-melted glue. 'They are in the form of toys, daily accessories and tools that are familiar to us. Although fresh air and space is scarce in this city, we still enjoy the freedom of imagination,' she says. Since toys are made to be played with, visitors are free to touch the exhibits. play.ground runs until Feb 27 at Wurth-Gallery, Goethe-Institut Hong Kong. 10am-8pm Mon-Fri; 2pm-6pm Sat. Wurth Gallery, Goethe-Institut, 14/F Arts Centre, Wan Chai. Tel: 2802 0088. Until Feb 27.
This one's a refreshing change from all those avant-garde oil paintings that have been coming out of China lately. Ma Haifang's water colours are simple, relaxing and traditional but not stuffy. Old Beijing Folk Custom is the 44-year-old Beijing artist's first solo exhibition in Hong Kong. He enjoys painting scenes of 'ordinary life' in the capital and his subjects include bustling crows at temple fairs, street jugglers, rickshaw boys, snack vendors, street barbers and chess players. His brushstrokes are straightforward and vivid. Ma's works are on display at Cathay Fine Art, Rm 709, Yu Yuet Lai Bldg, 43-55 Wyndham Street, Central, until March 20. Opening hours: Mon-Sat 11am to 6pm, Sunday by appointment. Tel: 2521 2448.
Emil Wong Yuk-ling adopted a kitten a year ago and Days Getting Along With A Cat is just what it says it is. 'I do not have or need any special reason for my creative works since having a cat,' Wong says. 'Creating has become a part of my life. That is also why so many of my paintings are untitled.' She adds that in recent years her usually vibrant works have undergone changes in content, medium manipulation and presentation depending on her body's 'strength and weakness' and her ever-changing mood. On show at Montblanc Gallery, Fringe Club, until Feb 17. Closed Sundays.
Tel: 2521 7251.
