25th December 2024 – (Hong Kong) A tattoo bearing the Chinese characters for “Hong Kong” has recently garnered attention, symbolising the anti-extradition protests that swept the city from 2019 to 2020. The design, which also translates to “Add Oil” when read horizontally, was showcased by a local tattoo studio that shared before-and-after images featuring street scenes added around the characters.
The tattoo has sparked a wave of commentary on social media, with some netizens mocking the protester for potentially fearing retaliation should he travel to mainland China. Others have derided him for what they perceive as a loss in the ongoing struggle for democracy, a sentiment that many believe has diminished significantly in recent years.
Throughout the protests, slogans played a crucial role in fostering solidarity and raising awareness. Phrases such as “Hong Kongers, add oil” became rallying cries, initially meant to encourage protesters. However, following the implementation of the anti-mask ban, the slogan evolved to “Hongkongers, resist,” reflecting the shifting dynamics of the movement.
Protest art emerged as a vital form of expression during this period, with activists and artists using various creative mediums to raise awareness and critique the government. Known as the “publicity group”, these individuals often worked under pseudonyms to protect their identities, embodying the leaderless nature of the protests. Their artwork ranged from subversive political commentary to comedic relief, heavily inspired by pop culture, particularly Japanese anime, and often featuring dystopian and anti-authoritarian themes.
