Hong Kong Lion Head Artisan Hui Ka Hung on Preserving Lion Dance Heritage | The Sovereign Lion

Tradition is not preserved by standing still. It survives through reinvention, finding new ways to connect with each generation. For Hong Kong lion head craftsman Hui Ka Hung of Hung Sing Lou, that belief is reflected in every lion he creates.

Resilience in Her Bones

“Lion dance is more than a performance,” Hui says. “It is a culture shaped by martial arts, folklore, craftsmanship, and the bonds between people.”

To him, the spirit of lion dance lies in resilience and perseverance. A lion must project strength, courage, and blessing, embodying the never-give-up attitude that has allowed the tradition to thrive across generations.

The lion head he found hardest to part with was a life-sized commissioned piece whose remarkable realism left a lasting impression on him. The experience reaffirmed his belief that tradition holds endless possibilities when paired with dedication and innovation.

If he were to create a lion that represents himself, it would be the Vermilion Red Lion - rooted in Hong Kong and dedicated to carrying the flame of tradition into the future.

Keeping the Flame Alive

Hui often says that traditional craftsmanship should not be confined to museums or remembered only through nostalgia. It must continue to evolve and engage new audiences.

At MGM, The Sovereign Lion is presented within a contemporary artistic setting, inviting viewers to experience lion head craftsmanship from a fresh perspective. Through its bold forms, vibrant colours and striking presence, younger audiences can discover that tradition remains as relevant and inspiring as ever.

For MGM, showcasing lion culture is about more than preservation. It is about creating opportunities for tradition to connect with the next generation. Together with artisans, artists and the wider community, MGM continues to explore new possibilities for the future of lion culture.

Exhibition Information

9 artworks, 9 different takes

“The Sovereign Lion” is now on view at Lion Dance Festival 2026.

Resilience in Her Bones

Keeping the Flame Alive

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