Tucked away near trendy coffee shops and vintage boutiques in Hong Kong’s Sheung Wan district, the Blue Lotus Gallery might seem like an unlikely neighbor to a vibrant basketball scene. Yet, within a 600-metre radius (approximately 1,968 feet), a staggering 22 basketball courts thrive, perched on rooftops, nestled in parks, and ingeniously integrated between skyscrapers.This high concentration of courts isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a testament to Hong Kong’s unique approach to urban space.
Austin bell’s Three-Year Odyssey: Documenting Hong Kong’s Courts
American photographer Austin Bell, captivated by this phenomenon, embarked on a three-year project to document every basketball court in Hong Kong.His dedication, resulting in over 58,000 photographs, is now showcased in his exhibition, “Shooting Hoops,” at the Blue Lotus Gallery, running until February 23.The exhibition is accompanied by a photobook of the same name.
American photographer Austin Bell.Credit: CNNBell has photographed basketball courts across the globe, including in New York, Montreal and Bangkok. Credit: CNN
Bell’s project goes beyond mere documentation; it’s an exploration of Hong Kong’s urban landscape and its creative adaptation to limited space. As Bell explains, “It’s not really about the sport — it’s more just about the architecture, the color, the surroundings and the topography of Hong Kong.”
Bell’s fascination began in 2017 with a visit to Choi Hung Estate, a public housing complex famous for its rainbow-colored facade and vibrant basketball courts. This location has become an “Instagram hotspot,” drawing photographers eager to capture its unique aesthetic. However, it was the revelation of other unusual and colorful courts that sparked Bell’s city-wide quest.
The basketball courts at Choi Hung Estate were the first Bell photographed in Hong Kong. Credit: CNN
Driven by curiosity, Bell began mapping these courts on Google Maps. “I started mapping them on Google Maps,” Bell said. ”I came back in the fall of 2019 to shoot them, and after two weeks, I said, I need to try and find all of them.”
The Density Factor: Why Hong Kong Embraces Rooftop Courts
Hong Kong’s remarkable density, with a population exceeding 7.5 million in an area of just over 426 square miles, necessitates creative solutions for recreational spaces.this density, which ranks among the highest in the world, fuels the proliferation of rooftop basketball courts and other innovative uses of vertical space. According to the Hong Kong government,approximately 45% of the land is country park and special areas,further limiting space for development and increasing the need for creative solutions.
Beyond the Game: Community and Culture
These basketball courts are more than just places to play; they are vital community hubs. They provide accessible recreational opportunities for residents of all ages and backgrounds, fostering social interaction and promoting physical activity. In a city known for its fast-paced lifestyle, these courts offer a space for relaxation, competition, and community bonding.
A Global Perspective: Urban Basketball in the 21st Century
Hong Kong’s innovative use of urban space for basketball resonates with similar trends in other densely populated cities around the world.From the public courts of New York city to the rooftop fields of Tokyo, urban planners and communities are finding creative ways to integrate sports and recreation into the urban fabric. Bell’s work provides a unique lens through which to examine these global trends.
See the Courts in Action
Experience the vibrant basketball culture of Hong Kong through this video showcasing some of the unique courts Austin Bell captured.
Connect with the Community
See more of Austin Bell’s work and connect with the Hong Kong basketball community on instagram.
Hong Kong’s hidden Courts: One Photographer’s Dedication to Documenting Urban Life
In the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong, where space is a premium, basketball courts frequently enough find themselves in the most unexpected locations. Photographer Austin Bell has made it his mission to document these hidden gems, revealing not just the courts themselves, but also the vibrant community life that surrounds them.
The Obsessive Pursuit: Uncovering Hidden Basketball Havens
Bell’s project began with a fascination for the unique urban landscape of Hong Kong. He meticulously scoured satellite images, identifying basketball courts tucked away in residential areas, perched atop shopping malls and parking garages, and even concealed within the dense foliage of remote islands. His dedication is evident in his meticulous tracking of these courts using spreadsheets.
This dedication highlights a broader trend in urban exploration, where individuals use technology to uncover hidden aspects of city life. According to a 2023 study by the Project for Public Spaces, accessible public spaces like basketball courts contribute significantly to community well-being and social interaction.
A Day in the Life: Documenting Hong Kong’s Courts
Early in the project, bell recounted photographing as many as 100 courts in a single day. He noted that this “isn’t that crazy” considering Hong Kong’s population density, which, according to 2021 data from the World Bank, ranks fourth internationally with 7,060 people per square kilometer.
Driven by a personal challenge, Bell once planned a route through densely populated neighborhoods like Tuen Mun, Tin Shui Wai, and Yuen Long, aiming to photograph as many courts as possible in a single day.
“I was just going out to take one diagnostic picture of each court and see how many I could do,” bell explained. He anticipated shooting around 200 courts,limited primarily by drone battery life. Though, he was surprised to find he had captured 475 courts that day.
Beyond Accessibility: The Journey to Remote Locations
Not all courts were easily accessible. Some required extensive travel, such as those on the remote island of Ap Chau, Hong Kong’s smallest inhabited island that was settled in 1952 by Christian missionaries from Beijing. Reaching such locations frequently enough took an entire day.
Bell observed non-sporting activities on the courts, like laundry drying at this venue in Tin Shui Wai.
A blue basketball court on Cheung Chau, one of Hong Kong’s islands, matches the coast.
More Than Just Basketball: Courts as Community Hubs
Bell’s photographs frequently enough exclude people, partly due to his preference for shooting in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid harsh lighting and to minimize disturbance.However, his work reveals the diverse uses of these spaces beyond basketball.
Over the years, Bell has witnessed a variety of activities on these courts. “I’ve seen choral practices, people walking their pet tortoises, people drying orange peels, everything you could imagine,” he said. “Its main purpose is basketball, and you’ve got big signs saying, no other ball games, no hanging laundry, no remote-control cars or whatever — but you still see all that stuff.”
This adaptability highlights the importance of public spaces in densely populated areas. As urban planning expert Jane Jacobs noted in her seminal work, “The Death and Life of Great American Cities,” diverse and adaptable public spaces are crucial for fostering community and social interaction.
“It’s so many different things all the time,I think that’s what makes it compelling. But it’s also just the fact that, there’s just not that many other (public) spaces to do things.” Bell observed.
The Allure of the Rooftop Courts
Many of Hong Kong’s basketball courts are uniquely situated on rooftops, offering stunning views of the city skyline. Bell utilized satellite imagery to pinpoint potential locations before deploying his drone to capture these elevated courts.
Many of Hong Kong’s basketball courts are located on rooftops. Bell used satellite images to map out potential locations before using his drone to snap photos.
basketball’s Enduring Appeal
Basketball, a sport invented in 1891 by James Naismith, continues to thrive in diverse communities worldwide. bell’s work underscores the enduring appeal of the game and its ability to create community spaces even in the most crowded urban environments.
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Hong Kong’s Hidden Courts: A Century of Hoops in a Concrete Jungle
By [Your Name Here], Updated [Current Date]
Originally published by CNN
A City Defined by Density and a Love for Basketball
Hong Kong, a global hub renowned for its towering skyscrapers and bustling streets, also harbors a unique passion: basketball. This passion is etched into the very fabric of the city, with basketball courts strategically woven into its dense urban environment. From rooftop playgrounds to spaces nestled between buildings, these courts offer a glimpse into Hong Kong’s resourcefulness and its residents’ dedication to the sport.
The story of basketball in Hong Kong is a testament to the city’s ability to adapt and thrive, even within spatial constraints. The game, invented in the U.S. in 1891 by James Naismith as a safe and engaging non-contact sport for the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA), has found a vibrant and enduring home in Hong Kong for over a century.
In the United States,basketball’s popularity continues to soar. According to the National Basketball Association (NBA), the 2022-2023 season saw record-breaking viewership, with the NBA Finals averaging 11.64 million viewers per game. This enthusiasm mirrors the dedication found on Hong Kong’s courts,albeit within a vastly different urban context.
urban Planning with a purpose: Basketball for All
The prevalence of basketball courts in Hong Kong isn’t accidental; it’s a result of deliberate urban planning.As Hong Kong’s population surged in the 1950s and 60s, city planners recognized the critical need for recreational spaces. This foresight lead to the implementation of guidelines for new public housing projects, mandating one outdoor basketball court per 10,000 residents – a ratio exceeding that of any other outdoor sports facility.
This commitment to providing accessible recreational facilities reflects a broader understanding of the importance of physical activity and community engagement in densely populated areas. In comparison, many major U.S. cities struggle with equitable access to recreational spaces, especially in low-income neighborhoods.A 2021 report by the Trust for Public Land found that 100 million Americans don’t have access to a park within a 10-minute walk of their home.
maximizing Space: The 15-Minute City Concept
According to Stefan van Ameijde, incorporating leisure facilities into urban design is common, but Hong Kong’s population-based guidelines are unusual. He says it’s symptomatic of the city’s high density and scarce land, where maximizing efficiency is vital: for example, the proximity of recreational facilities to residents aims to make housing projects and districts self-contained, like a 15-minute city where everything is within walking distance.
Beautifying the Game: Design and innovation on the Courts
The culture of space efficiency has evolved in recent years into the beautifying of some of these leisure spaces, said van Ameijde, pointing to the work of cross-disciplinary design firm One Bite Design, which has upgraded several rooftop and mall basketball courts with vivid designs.
These vibrant designs not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the courts but also contribute to a sense of community pride and ownership. This approach aligns with trends in urban design in the U.S., where cities are increasingly investing in public art and placemaking initiatives to revitalize neighborhoods and foster social connections.
Puzzling into the Urban Fabric
The basketball courts always find a way to puzzle into the urban fabric, whether it’s in between buildings, or on rooftops of shopping malls, said Van Ameijde. It’s an captivating balance, this sort of hyper-dense mix of both life and work, commerce and efficiency, which is very much in the DNA of Hong Kong.
Photographer Austin Bell has captured the essence of Hong Kong’s basketball culture through his unique aerial photography. His project, “Shooting Hoops,” documents the city’s diverse range of courts, from public spaces to hidden schoolyards. Bell’s work provides a compelling visual narrative of how basketball thrives in this densely populated environment.
Hong Kong’s public basketball courts are just a fraction of the story though, accounting for less than a third of the ones Bell snapped. The majority of Bell’s photos, around 1,800, are of school basketball courts that he captured using a drone.
Accessibility is one of the biggest differences Bell has observed between the basketball courts in Hong Kong and New York — the latter of which he believes has the world’s second-highest number of outdoor courts, and where he’s shot around 1,000 courts so far and has mapped 1,000 more.
While New york City boasts a important number of courts, access can be challenging due to factors such as permit requirements, overcrowding, and uneven distribution across neighborhoods. This contrasts with Hong Kong, where the planned integration of courts within residential areas aims to ensure greater accessibility for residents.
Conquering Walls: The Allure of the Aerial Dimension
You would never know it’s there unless you were up in a building somewhere looking down on it, Bell said of Hong Kong’s school basketball courts. So I think that was part of the appeal too — I wanted to conquer these walls through the aerial dimension, and get everything that’s hiding behind them.
Bell’s aerial perspective reveals the hidden beauty and strategic placement of these courts, offering a fresh appreciation for Hong kong’s urban landscape. His work also highlights the challenges of documenting these spaces, particularly with the tightening of drone regulations.
Navigating Drone Regulations: A Changing Landscape
Almost all of these images were shot with a drone — something he adds is now not possible, as the tightening of drone laws in Hong Kong in late 2022.
The evolving regulatory landscape for drone usage presents both challenges and opportunities for photographers and urban explorers. While restrictions may limit aerial documentation, they also encourage innovative approaches to capturing the essence of urban spaces.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy
Hong Kong’s unique relationship with basketball serves as a compelling case study in urban planning, community engagement, and the enduring power of sport. The city’s commitment to providing accessible recreational spaces, combined with its innovative approach to maximizing space, has created a vibrant basketball culture that continues to thrive. As cities around the world grapple with issues of density and livability, Hong Kong’s example offers valuable lessons in how to integrate recreation into the urban fabric and foster a sense of community through sport.
Shooting Hoops: Photographing Hong Kong’s Hidden Basketball Courts
By [Your Name/Agency Name] - Published [Current Date]
Austin Bell’s “Shooting Hoops” project captures the unique charm and ever-changing landscape of Hong Kong’s urban basketball courts, revealing their significance beyond just a place to play.
The Allure of the Urban Court: More Than just a Game
Basketball courts,often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of city life,hold a unique appeal. They are community hubs, canvases for vibrant art, and testaments to the ever-evolving urban landscape. In Hong Kong, photographer Austin Bell recognized this hidden beauty and embarked on a mission to document the city’s diverse collection of basketball courts.
Bell’s project, titled “Shooting Hoops,” transcends mere documentation. It’s an exploration of how these spaces are integrated into the urban fabric, reflecting the city’s culture and its people. the project, showcased in an exhibition and a book, aims to elevate the mundane, transforming everyday spaces into objects of artistic appreciation.
In the United States, similar projects have highlighted the cultural significance of basketball courts. Such as, the “Project Backboard” initiative revitalizes neglected courts in underserved communities, turning them into vibrant public art spaces. These projects, like Bell’s, demonstrate the power of art to transform and uplift communities through the simple act of celebrating the game.
A Photographic Odyssey: Documenting a Fluctuating Landscape
Bell’s journey began with a simple fascination for the unique designs and locations of Hong Kong’s basketball courts.From rooftop courts overlooking the city skyline to hidden gems nestled within public housing estates, each court tells a story. The project, spanning several years, involved meticulous research and exploration to locate and photograph each court.
Though, the ephemeral nature of these urban spaces presented a challenge. As Bell notes, “The number has already changed. There are already new ones since I finished this project — new housing (projects) have been built,there’s probably some that have been torn down. The number is constantly fluctuating.” This constant change underscores the importance of documenting these spaces before they disappear, preserving a snapshot of Hong Kong’s urban history.
This mirrors the experience in many U.S. cities, where urban development and gentrification often lead to the disappearance of community spaces, including basketball courts. preserving these spaces, either through documentation or revitalization efforts, becomes crucial for maintaining community identity and providing recreational opportunities.
Transforming the Mundane: Seeing the Extraordinary in the Ordinary
For Bell, “Shooting Hoops” is more than just a catalog of basketball courts; it’s an exercise in finding beauty in the everyday. As he explains, “We take all these visual things, like basketball courts, for granted… in reality, when you condense them together in a picture, or put them in 2D, you can see it’s really something different.” By isolating and framing these spaces, Bell invites viewers to reconsider their perception of the urban environment and appreciate the often-overlooked details that contribute to its character.
This perspective aligns with the principles of urban exploration and street photography, which seek to uncover hidden beauty and stories within the urban landscape. By focusing on the mundane, these art forms challenge us to see the world with fresh eyes and appreciate the richness of everyday life.
The Ever-Changing Court: A Reflection of urban Dynamics
The project also highlights the dynamic nature of urban spaces.Some courts have been repainted, others have been repurposed, and some have simply vanished. This constant flux reflects the broader forces of urban development and the ever-changing needs of the community. while Bell doesn’t plan to revisit the project due to this constant change, the existing collection serves as a valuable record of a specific moment in Hong Kong’s urban history.
In the U.S., organizations like the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) are working to ensure that urban parks and recreational facilities, including basketball courts, are maintained and updated to meet the needs of the community. These efforts recognize the importance of these spaces for promoting physical activity, social interaction, and community well-being.
Visual Gallery: Hong Kong’s unique Basketball Courts
The majority of Hong Kong’s outdoor basketball courts are located in schools, and often double as playgrounds for recess. Photo by Austin Bell.five colorful basketball courts in Sheung Wan, near Blue Lotus Gallery where Bell is exhibiting his collection. Photo by Austin Bell.Some courts have changed as Bell photographed them, like this one in Kwun Tong, which has since been repainted. Photo by Austin bell.This court, located at Tin wan housing project’s playground, backs onto the Aberdeen Country Park. Photo by Austin Bell.Basketball court in Kwai Chung. Photo by Austin Bell.
Conclusion: A Lasting Impression
“Shooting Hoops” serves as a reminder to appreciate the beauty and significance of the spaces we often take for granted. Austin Bell’s dedication to documenting Hong Kong’s basketball courts has created a valuable archive of urban life, inviting us to see the city in a new light. Whether in Hong Kong or the United States, these urban courts represent more than just a place to play; they are vital components of community and culture.
Connect and Share
Share your thoughts on Austin Bell’s “Shooting Hoops” project and your favorite basketball court memories.
A Kaleidoscope of concrete: Photographing Hong Kong’s Unique Basketball Courts
By [Your Name/Agency Name] – Published [Current Date]
Hong Kong’s urban landscape is a dense tapestry of skyscrapers and bustling streets. But hidden within this concrete jungle are vibrant pockets of community life: its basketball courts. Photographer Austin Bell has captured the essence of these spaces, showcasing their unique designs and the stories they tell.
Beyond the game: The Cultural Significance of Hong Kong’s Courts
Basketball’s popularity in Hong kong mirrors its global appeal, but the city’s courts are far from generic. They are canvases of color and design, reflecting the local culture and serving as vital community hubs. According to a 2023 report by the Hong Kong Basketball Association, participation in organized basketball leagues has increased by 15% in the last five years, highlighting the sport’s growing importance.
Austin Bell’s photograph capturing the vibrant colors of a basketball court in Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
Bell’s work goes beyond simply documenting these courts; it explores their role in shaping community bonds. In densely populated areas, these courts offer a rare open space for recreation and social interaction. They are where friendships are forged, skills are honed, and a sense of belonging is cultivated.
austin bell’s Vision: capturing the Essence of Urban Play
Austin Bell’s photography project, focusing on Hong Kong’s basketball courts, began in 2022. His initial fascination stemmed from the courts’ striking visual appeal. Bell explains:
“Bell said the bold, colorful aesthetic of the courts sparked his interest in the subject.”
This initial spark ignited a deeper exploration of the courts’ cultural significance. bell’s photographs showcase not only the aesthetic beauty but also the energy and life that these spaces embody. He masterfully captures the interplay of light and shadow, the vibrant colors, and the dynamic movements of the players.
A grid showcasing the diverse designs of basketball courts across Hong Kong, as captured by Austin Bell.
The Art of the Court: Design and Community Identity
Each basketball court in Hong Kong possesses a unique character, frequently enough reflecting the surrounding neighborhood. The designs range from geometric patterns to vibrant murals, showcasing the creativity and artistic expression of local communities. This contrasts with the more standardized courts often found in the United States, where regulations often dictate court dimensions and color schemes.
Consider the example of the famous “Pigalle Duperré” court in Paris, a collaboration between Pigalle and Nike, which transformed a simple basketball court into a vibrant work of art. Similarly, Hong Kong’s courts demonstrate how public spaces can be revitalized through creative design, fostering a sense of pride and ownership among residents.
Here’s a video showcasing some unique basketball court designs around the world:
More Than Just a Game: Basketball’s Impact on Urban Communities
Basketball courts serve as vital social spaces, particularly in densely populated urban environments. They provide a safe and accessible outlet for physical activity, promoting health and well-being. Moreover, they foster a sense of community, bringing people together from diverse backgrounds.
In the United States, organizations like the NBA Cares program invest in building and renovating basketball courts in underserved communities, recognizing the positive impact these spaces can have on youth development and community cohesion. Hong Kong’s courts, as documented by Bell, serve a similar function, providing a platform for social interaction and community building.
Looking Ahead: Preserving and Celebrating Hong Kong’s Urban Gems
As Hong Kong continues to evolve, it is crucial to preserve and celebrate these unique basketball courts. They are not just places to play basketball; they are cultural landmarks that reflect the city’s vibrant spirit and community identity. austin Bell’s photography serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of these urban spaces and the need to protect them for future generations.
