No comparison

Zhang Rui, a 28-year-old project manager at Huaxie International Fine Art Freight Services Co who has helped plan several delivery operations in Hong Kong, said that as a result of numerous collaborative efforts, local museum workers and residents have continued to deepen their understanding of national treasures.

She said close cross-border exchanges and the increasing need for high-quality culture have helped the cultural relics handling industry develop rapidly. More cultural enthusiasts and members of the public have learned about this work, and newcomers to the industry such as herself are adding input to the sector.

Although the pandemic has caused disruption for the past two and a half years, the industry has adapted to the situation thanks to the latest technologies. Offline examination of exhibits has shifted online, and a cloud-based monitoring system helps locate exhibits and tracks them during deliveries.

Zhang said the opening of the Hong Kong Palace Museum offers new hope for cross-border exchanges of cultural relics, and is expected to lead to more extensive collaboration.

She stressed that although technology adds quality to digital and online displays, nothing can compare with visiting an exhibition in person.

As long as there is a need for exhibitions, the arts handling industry will do its utmost to transport items for display, Zhang added.