Sheung Wan Upper
Open Quote
*** PLEASE NOTE: Open Quote is currently no longer operating permanently in Sheung Wan but as a pop-up around Hong Kong, please check their Facebook page (they are in the area of San Po Kong at the time of writing, May 2017). Open Quote was started by artist Ricky Lai as a platform for young local artists to showcase their talents and ideas, hence the name of the store. He is an artist himself so he gets how difficult it can be to gain a mainstream audience. The space is divided into three parts – lifestyle products, books and music, and gallery. I love its agenda. I’ve been introduced to some amazing Hong Kong artists whilst browsing through its contents. Thoughtfully there are some seats in the books sections so you can take your time. Also, for the environmentally-minded there are some quirky recycled products such as pens made of egg shells and tea leaves. If I had to name one favorite store in my neighborhood this would be it.