Past Events and Programmes
Event Calendar Past Events and Programmes
Encountering Indigo – Exploring the Chemistry and Culture of Natural Dye

Did you know the indigo blue on jeans can come from a native Hong Kong plant called Chinese indigo (Strobilanthes cusia, 「馬藍」)? To mark the Year of the Horse in 2026, this programme takes inspiration from the character 「馬」 in 「馬藍」, offering an interdisciplinary journey that blends ecology, art, and tradition – culminating in a student showcase at your school around Chinese New Year.

Used for centuries as a natural dye, Chinese indigo also supports local ecosystems as a habitat and food source for insects. Its dyeing process is both eco-friendly and rooted in science, involving oxidation-reduction reactions, pH levels, and temperature control – where traditional craft meets scientific discovery.

Join our STEAM-based journey, guided by interdisciplinary artists, to explore the living chemistry and cultural richness of natural indigo.

Differentiated Learning Focus

Junior Secondary (S2–S3): Spark Curiosity Senior Secondary (S5 Chemistry): Deepen Understanding
  • Build interest in STEAM, science and chemistry through fun and hands-on learning.
  • Discover traditional natural dyeing and local Hakka culture.
  • Create indigo-dyed artworks themed around the ‘Year of the Horse’. Showcase students’ works during Chinese New Year on campus and at the Countryside Eco-Festival at KFBG.
  • Reinforce chemistry concepts such as redox, bonding and organic reactions through real-life applications.
  • Blend science and creativity through natural dyeing.
  • Create meaningful artworks inspired by ‘Harmony with Nature’ or ‘Sustainable Development’ for school displays and decorations.

CLICK HERE to download the Programme Catalogue.

Learning Journey and Key Focus

Learning Phase Junior Secondary Senior Secondary Key Focus

Encountering Chinese Indigo
Location: KFBG
Oct 2025 Feb 2026 Observe Chinese Indigo in its natural habitat; understand its plant features, ecological role, and the cultural history of indigo dye

When Nature Meets Science
Location: School

Oct - Nov 2025 Feb - May 2026*

Hands-on extraction and dyeing with natural indigo

  • Junior focus: operation and observation
  • Senior focus: scientific principles including redox, pH and temperature effects

Colours of Reflection
Location: School

Dec 2025 - Jan 2026 June 2026 Reflect on the cultural and communal significance of natural dye; summarise learning through artistic creation

Final Showcase
Location: School and KFBG

Feb–Mar 2026 Not applicable Junior students act as curators and exhibit their works at school and the Countryside Eco-Festival

*It can be adjusted according to the teaching progress of each school.

Language
Cantonese / English

Target Audience
Junior Secondary: One class (up to 35 students) for in-depth, hands-on creation and exploration
Senior Secondary: Open to all Chemistry students at the same grade level, suitable for theme-based and cross-disciplinary learning

Fee
Junior Secondary: HK$30,000
Senior Secondary: HK$10,000+

Application
Interested parties are welcome to contact us for further details. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

Enquiry
Please contact Mr Delton Li at 2483 7187 during office hours or email delton.li@kfbg.org

Related Links

  • Kadoorie Earth Programme (KEP) is an initiative co-created by KFBG and its network of collaborators and volunteers. By integrating the various strands of KFBG’s nature conservation, sustainable living and holistic education programmes, it provides life-transforming learning experiences that reconnect people with themselves, each other and the rest of nature and enable them to cultivate resilience in the face of global challenges.
  • Nature Art Programmes: Immerse yourself in silent contemplation of nature. Deepen your awareness of beauty and connect with nature through art. KFBG organises a variety of art workshops including Zentangle drawing, sketching and wood art, and exhibitions to guide participants, with or without artistic background, to create nature art.
  • Nature Education Programmes: Become animal detectives and explore the mysteries of wild animals. Use different senses to discover the beauty of plants. Learn about the significance of forest, trees and even soils through field visits, experiments and woodwork, to reconnect with nature.
  • Group Guided Tours: Led by trained environmental interpreters, the content includes experiential and hands-on activities. We encourage a passion for nature, conservation and ecology by nurturing an appreciation of the natural world.
  • Corporate Programmes: Our Holistic Education Department staff can design either half-day or full-day nature education and art programmes for  corporate staff or their family members based on specific needs. Leveraging the unique natural landscape and cultural ambiance of Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden, our activities may include guided tours, farm-to-table experiences, nature-based workshops, talks and art activities, aiming to promote understanding and practice of sustainable living for organisations.