The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is proud to present "ART FOR THE EARTH: An Exhibition and Auction for Conservation,” a groundbreaking initiative that bridges art and environmental preservation. This exhibition harnesses the power of art to raise awareness and drive conservation action for endangered species and habitats across the Asia-Pacific region.
This unique collaboration between TNC and renowned doll artist Ning Lau features 16 meticulously crafted, one-of-a-kind doll art pieces that beautifully depict the unique and threatened species and landscapes of the region. From the rich and vibrant marine ecosystems, the lush forests, to the boundless sky, these artistic ambassadors evoke a deep connection to nature and inspire us all to become steadfast advocates for protecting our planet's precious resources. Ning deliberately uses upcycled fabrics in each doll, explicitly emphasizing a commitment to sustainability and highlighting the importance of reusing materials to reduce waste and protect the environment.
Quote: Ning Lau, Artist
"As an artist, I believe art has the power to touch hearts and ignite passion for conservation. Through these dolls, I hope to focus attention on the beauty and fragility of the natural world, and inspire people to protect endangered habitats and species.
"I’m honored to be part of an initiative that brings attention to such an important cause," Ning Lau said.
The 16 handcrafted dolls are truly one-of-a-kind works of art, each requiring immense time and effort to create. A highlight of this collection includes the Ceylon Rose and Oyster Reefs figures, inspired by the beloved and renowned celebrity and actress Lin Min-Chen. Min-Chen has long had a deep interest and passion for nature conservation. She not only strongly supports this important conservation effort, but has also personally participated in it and expressed her heartfelt concern for endangered species and their habitats.
Quote: Lin Min-Chen, Artist
I am very happy to be a part of this project, and to help raise awareness about the issues facing our planet. The Ceylon Rose and Oyster Reefs figures symbolize resilience and hope, and I’m thrilled that they will be part of an event that contributes to meaningful change.
Min-Chen shared, "I hope they will be bid on and obtained by people with a kind heart, and I call on everyone to actively support this charity auction and contribute to the protection of our natural home."
While all of the 16 one-of-a-kind dolls will be exhibited and auctioned, the Ceylon Rose doll will be available in a limited edition of 20 replicas for pre-order and auction. Each piece is unique, featuring distinct hairstyles, facial features, and intricate details, ensuring that every piece is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. This offers supporters the chance to own a truly exclusive and distinctive art collectible.
Among the collection, the Oyster Reefs doll pays tribute to an endangered habitat - a vital and irreplaceable ecosystem that supports the delicate balance of life. Three dolls – Red-crowned Crane, Snow Leopard, and Chinese White Dolphin – will be showcased in a live auction at the TNC Gala Dinner on September 13th, with proceeds directly benefiting TNC’s conservation and education initiatives in the region. The remaining 13 dolls will be auctioned online until October 31st, allowing a broader audience to support these vital efforts.
Quote: Lulu Zhou, Hong Kong Program Lead, TNC
This exhibition is more than just an art display, it’s a powerful statement about our commitment to protecting the natural world. Each doll, whether representing a majestic animal or a crucial habitat like the Oyster Reefs, symbolizes the delicate balance of our ecosystems and the urgent need to act
"We hope this exhibition will inspire everyone who attends to contribute to our conservation efforts and help preserve these incredible species for future generations,” said Lulu Zhou, Director, Strategic Partnerships (Asia Pacific) and Hong Kong Program Lead of The Nature Conservancy.
Visitors to the exhibition can immerse themselves in a variety of enriching activities, starting with bidding on the figures through a QR code available at the exhibition. Additionally, they can explore an interactive augmented reality experience by scanning the animal photos next to each doll, gaining insight into the species or habitat it represents. To further engage with the event, the first 100 visitors who sign up for the TNC e-newsletter on-site will receive a complimentary small pouch featuring photos of the figures.
"ART FOR THE EARTH: An Exhibition and Auction for Conservation" invites everyone to experience the intersection of art and conservation. By participating in this charity auction, you can contribute to safeguarding endangered natural resources and help to build a more beautiful and sustainable planet. All proceeds from the auction will directly support TNC's vital conservation and education efforts in the Asia-Pacific region, funding on-the-ground programs that protect fragile ecosystems and the species that depend on them. The event is further enriched by the support of renowned pet portraitist Prissy Tang, who has beautifully drawn all of the animals in the collection. As a token of appreciation, each bidder will receive a thank-you card featuring her exquisite artwork.
For online auction, please visit https://hk.givergy.com/ArtForTheEarth
First and foremost, TNC extends heartfelt gratitude to doll artist Ning Lau for her selfless contributions and support. She has handcrafted all 16 exhibition pieces and will be donating all auction proceeds to our conservation efforts. Her generosity and passion are truly appreciated. We also thank Pacific Place for providing the venue, making this exhibition possible. Finally, we thank Prissy Tang for her exquisite artwork, which enhances the exhibition with her detailed and captivating illustrations of the animals.
"Art for the Earth: An Exhibition and Auction for Conservation” details
Exhibition:
Venue: Park Court, Level L1, Pacific Place (near Shiro)
Date: 5 – 18 September 2024
Time: 10:00 – 22:00
Online Auction:
Date: 5 September – 31 October 2024
Time: 24 hours
16 dolls representing endangered species
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) is proud to present "ART FOR THE EARTH: An Exhibition and Auction for Conservation,” a groundbreaking initiative that bridges art and environmental preservation. This unique collaboration between TNC and renowned doll artist, Ning Lau, features meticulously crafted, doll art pieces that beautifully depict the unique and threatened species and habitats across the Asia-Pacific region.
Following the successful auction of these one-of-a-kind dolls in October, with all proceeds directly supporting The Nature Conservancy's conservation and restoration efforts, we are excited to present a special public showcase during December 3-12, 2024, where their beauty and significance can continue to inspire. The Land collection will be showcased at Taikoo MTR station, inviting you to marvel at the majesty of terrestrial creatures and the intricate balance of life on land. Meanwhile, the Ocean and Sky collections will be exhibited at Hong Kong MTR station, where the wonders of the deep and the vastness of the skies unite in a stunning tribute to nature’s splendor.
Land collection
Asian Elephant, Asiatic Black Bear, Yunnan Golden Monkey, Bornean Orangutan
Asian Elephant: As Asia’s largest land animal, they consume up to 150 kg of food daily, dispersing seeds and promoting forest regeneration. © TNC
Asiatic Black Bear: Frequent human activities and over-exploitation have led to habitat deterioration, loss, and fragmentation. In many parts of Asia, "bear bile" is used in traditional medicine. © TNC
Yunnan Golden Monkey: Found only in China. Their complex social structure resembles human societies, with family units forming clans and tribes. © TNC & Long Yongcheng/TNC
Bornean Orangutan: Benefits the environment by dispersing seeds to promote forest regeneration and creating habitats for other animals. They are mostly solitary and build nests in trees. © TNC & Ashar Ashar/TNC Photo Contest 2021
ART FOR THE EARTH: Land: Renowned doll artist Ning Lau handcrafted one-of-a-kind doll art pieces that beautifully depict the unique and threatened species and landscapes © TNC
Ocean and Habitat collections
Chinese Horseshoe Crab, Humphead Wrasse, Hawksbill Turtle, Chinese White Dolphin, Oyster Reefs
Chinese Horseshoe Crab: For decades, horseshoe crabs have played a critical role in human medicine, with their blood being used to develop vaccines and new drug reagents. © TNC & Miko Lui
Humphead Wrasse: Rarely exceeding 20 adults per 10,000 square meters, they play a crucial role in maintaining coral reef health by controlling the populations of harmful invertebrates. © TNC
Hawksbill Turtle: Slow-reproducing species that reaches sexual maturity at 25-40 years old, while the odds of a hatchling reaching adulthood are just 1 in 1,000. © TNC
Chinese White Dolphin: These stunning creatures are crucial for marine ecosystems, regulating prey populations and supporting nutrient cycling. © TNC
Oyster Reefs: Oyster reefs are the unsung heroes of coastal areas, providing immense benefits to both the environment and nearby communities. © TNC & Marine Thomas
Sky collection
Kākāpō, Wrinkled Hornbill, Ceylon Rose, Red-crowned Crane, Black-faced Spoonbill
Kakapo: Endemic to New Zealand. Like other birds, the Kākāpō plays a crucial role in ecosystem functioning. It contributes to plant pollination, seed dispersal, nutrient distribution, © TNC
Wrinkled Hornbill: primarily consumes a diverse range of fruits. Its distinctive beak enables it to pluck and manipulate fruits, playing a crucial role in seed dispersal within forest ecosystems © TNC
Ceylon Rose: Serves as an “indicator species” for the health of its habitat; its existence points to pristine, resource-rich forests; its absence signals detrimental environmental shifts. © TNC & Spacegecko
Red Crowned Crane: It contributes to biodiversity by maintaining ecological balance within its habitat, and its presence is an indicator of environmental health. © TNC
Black-faced Spoonbill: It serves as an indicator species for wetland environments that provide essential ecological services like water filtration and flood control. © TNC & Wu Kailiang
"Art for the Earth: An Exhibition for Conservation” details
Venue: Hong Kong and Taikoo MTR stations
Date: December 3-12, 2024
