Diasporic Identity reflects the convergence of Canadian urban life and Hong Kong’s heritage over the past few decades.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, uncertainty about Hong Kong’s future prompted more than 210,000 residents to move to Canada, mainly settling in Vancouver and Toronto. Then in 2020, Canada launched an open work permit program to attract more immigrants from Hong Kong.
This project aims to explore the social transformation of Chinese communities, particularly Hong Kong-Canadians, in the Greater Toronto Area, with a focus on Richmond Hill, Markham, and Scarborough. The series investigates interactions between newcomers and existing residents, and examines changes in stores, architecture, and demographics.
The work focuses on key locations such as First Markham Place, Pacific Mall, and New Kennedy Square, documenting their interiors and exteriors. The goal is to examine how Hong Kong residents have adapted to their new environment while maintaining their cultural identity.
Hansen, who was born and raised in Hong Kong, is now based in Toronto. He is a versatile photographer, specializing in street photography. By combining digital techniques with 35mm film, he creates rich, nostalgic images. Influenced by the culture and cinematic aesthetics of Hong Kong, his work features low-contrast visuals and emphasizes narrative-driven storytelling.