Thank you for listening: creative practices and cultural adaptation tensions among Hong Kong migrant artists in the UK

Abstract

This essay explores how migrant artists from Hong Kong have used creative practices to adapt to life in the UK. Through personal narratives expressed in songwriting, theatre, and blogging, it highlights how these practices help artists navigate cultural displacement and marginalization. By maintaining ties to their heritage while fostering intercultural dialogue, they build a sense of community and belonging in a new environment. The essay also considers how legal frameworks, cultural protection policies, and arts funding impact their ability to sustain creative work. A key finding is the under-utilization of these artists’ skills, with many feeling their talents are not fully understood or appreciated by local communities. This points to a need for UK cultural institutions and local authorities to engage more directly with migrant artists, for example those from Hong Kong, recognizing their contributions and supporting their integration. Overall, the essay contributes to wider discussions on migration, identity, and the transformative role of creativity in diasporic experiences