The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam | Celebrating the 80th Anniversary of The Little Prince: 'The Little Prince and the Aviator' Exhibition presented by the French Culture Association of Hong Kong and the University Museum and Art Gallery of the Univers

Description

The French Culture Association of Hong Kong joins hands with the University Museum and Art Gallery (UMAG) of the University of Hong Kong to present the grand finale of Le French May, 'The Little Prince and the Aviator' exhibition, from 26 June to 18 October 2026 at the University of Hong Kong, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the publication of The Little Prince (Le Petit Prince) in France.

The exhibition is generously supported by the Antoine de Saint-Exupéry Youth Foundation and The Little Museum of the World, with the kind sponsorship of IWC and the University Museum Society of the University of Hong Kong, as well as the support of the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Banque Transatlantique and Gérard Bertrand.

As one of Hong Kong's annual cultural highlights, the exhibition will take audiences of all ages on a unique thematic journey to explore the multifaceted life of the legendary writer, pilot and artist, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1900–1944).

A Thematic Journey Through a Legendary Life

The exhibition will offer a comprehensive view of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's life, guiding visitors through four thematic journeys that explore the author's life from multiple perspectives and provide deep insights into how his rich experiences shaped The Little Prince.

Through rare photographs, personal letters, family memorabilia and original manuscripts, visitors can glimpse into Saint-Exupéry's childhood, his close friendships and his creative spirit. The exhibition will also delve into his illustrious career as a pilot and World War II hero, showcasing maps, flight documents, military objects and a range of personal belongings that reflect his pioneering contributions to aviation and his indomitable spirit of adventure.

The climax of the exhibition focuses on the birth of The Little Prince, featuring original manuscripts, illustrations, first editions and translations from around the world, detailing the evolution and impact of the beloved character. The exhibition brings together precious artefacts that vividly portray Saint-Exupéry's life as a writer, artist, explorer and humanist, and how his spirit continues to inspire generations.

Additionally, eight exclusive life-size coloured sculptures of The Little Prince will be on display in Hong Kong, with pre-orders available for collectors and enthusiasts to commemorate Saint-Exupéry's globally acclaimed masterpiece.

To enhance the experience for art enthusiasts, customised guided tours can be arranged for schools and groups upon request. Furthermore, the University of Hong Kong will host a series of educational workshops during the exhibition, while the French Culture Association of Hong Kong will offer themed French courses, summer camps and various learning activities at its three branches.

To celebrate the opening of the exhibition, Adrien Guiraud, grand-nephew of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry and representative of the Saint-Exupéry-d'Agay Family Estate Committee, will visit Hong Kong. His presence underscores the family's commitment to promoting Saint-Exupéry's life story, humanist values and literary legacy to new generations of readers and audiences worldwide.

Exhibition Details

Date: 26 June 2026 (Friday) to 18 October 2026 (Sunday)

Opening Hours:

Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30am - 6:00pm
Sunday: 1:00pm - 6:00pm
Closed on Mondays, public holidays and university holidays

Location: 1/F, Cheng Ming Building, University Museum and Art Gallery, The University of Hong Kong, 90 Bonham Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong

Tel/Email: (852) 3917 5500 (General Enquiries) / museum@hku.hk

Admission: Free (Please enter through the ground floor of Fung Ping Shan Building)

Website:

https://umag.hku.hk/tc/exhibition/the-little-prince-and-the-pilot/

https://www.afhongkong.org/cn/cultural-events/french-may/2026/the-little-prince-and-the-pilot/