Eva Cheng: Giant Puppet Artist and Parade Costume Designer

What do you love most about working in the arts?
I love feeling satisfied knowing that my ideas are coming to life through my works. From conceptualising to completing an artwork, I’m very hands-on with every step of the creative process. 

How did you get involved in creating giant puppets?
I met Taiwanese giant puppeteer Jimmy Hsieh through friends, and I assisted him at school workshops and parades throughout Standard Chartered Arts in the Park. After working with Jimmy for a few years, he encouraged me to start leading my own classes. Eventually, I began teaching at the artist-in-residence programmes for Arts in the Park. Every puppet I made with the students comes with new challenges, which makes the experience more enjoyable and invigorating.

What do you find most challenging when designing a parade costume?
Parade costumes often come in lavish designs and elaborate structures. This requires using various materials underneath the costumes to support the structures. It’s a challenge to find the right combination of materials and adhesives to make sure that the costume stays in place while leaving enough flexibility for the performer to move comfortably.

What makes an artwork good?
Art is a medium that conveys ideas through objects. A good piece of artwork has to be able to connect with the audience and convey the artist’s ideas. Without this connection, the work is just an object.

What advice would you give to young people who are passionate about the arts?
One of my school teachers used to say “If you can imagine it, you can do it.” This quote has become my inspiration whenever I face a challenging situation. So, if you can imagine it, keep experimenting, and eventually, you will be able to find a solution.

What advice would you give to your sixteen-year-old self?
Don’t stop being curious about the world. And take care of your eyesight. You'll need good vision to keep making work!

Who is your favourite artist?
Dick Bruna, the creator of Miffy. I really admire the usage of simple lines and shapes and primary colours in his drawings.