Interview

How do you usually find inspiration for your artwork?I take my inspiration from actual experiences in my personal life, and seldom from social happenings, politics, or global issues, like environmental protection. I know these feelings may seem trivial, but at the same time I think these ideas can be shared by the viewers once I turn them into paintings.

Few artists in Hong Kong concentrate exclusively on painting. Why do you choose to stick to this medium?I think it’s the medium that makes me feel most comfortable. I like it that I can do it with my own hands, and can finish [a work] all by myself. People do ask me sometimes why I’m only focusing on painting. The thing is, I don’t find it monotonous at all. I’m happy.

The drawing in some of your work is quite girly in style.
That’s true. Recently, I’ve been thinking about that too. [Laughs] Sometimes, the lighter colour tones in my work can create that kind of impression. Looking at it from another perspective, these types of paintings – and not just those by me – regularly manage to give out delicate and intimate feelings.

What do you think about this particular drawing style?It’s not that I can only draw in this simple manner, but that’s the way I draw. [Laughs] If you take a quick glance, you’d think that they’re drawn by little children; but if you look closer, you’ll see that although they give a sense of naivety, they’re obviously drawn by an adult. There’s that special feeling they give out.

Has this drawing style presented any obstacles to your career as an artist?I understand what you’re getting at. It depends on who you’re targeting with your paintings. For me, I haven’t [had a specific audience] in mind. I realise that the more mature viewers may not be as enthusiastic with my works, which may remind them of illustrations or comics. But as long as I’m happy with my paintings, I’m not going to worry about it.

Have you been drawing at home since you moved out of your Fo Tan studio in late 2008?Yes, I draw at home. All  you’re seeing here were drawn at home.

Does that mean you have a very big apartment?My home isn’t big. I can hardly walk when I have to let the larger paintings lie down horizontally. When I draw, I’m also using the ironing board to support the canvas. I’m finding it quite interesting, actually. When in Fo Tan, it felt a bit like I was going to work. I was totally isolated from the world then – even though I’m enough of a hermit [just by] working at home now.

So what’s next for you?I’ll continue to paint, and begin trying out other media, like photography. Another thing is – like you’ve just mentioned – about the very girly expression in my work. I’m thinking about doing some research on this type of artist. It may take the form of a piece of writing, a book, or an exhibition.