Spotlight on YAFies: Hui I-chuen

Hui I-chuen
Giant puppeteer at Standard Chartered Arts in the Park 2022

You originally worked in the field of stage costumes and props design, what interested you about creating giant puppets?
When I was working as a costume and props designer, I had a lot of opportunities to join all kinds of shows and performances. I was amazed and captivated by the giant puppets I saw. As I also like working on different creative projects, when the opportunity came up to make a giant puppet, I was eager to try it out.

How long does it take to create a giant puppet?
About two months. First, I get to know the character and do design research. Once the concept is clear, I start to create. I study the proportions of the puppet to build the supporting frame structure, make the body and the head, paint the puppet, and make costumes and accessories. Finally, I try it on and see if it works.

What’s the biggest challenge of making a giant puppet?
The design. I always try to add new elements without affecting the character’s personality and the creative process.The facial expression is also crucial as it’s the most obvious indication of the character’s personality. I go through a lot of references and trials before I decide on the best facial expression.

This year, you’re working on the giant puppet of Fagin from the story Oliver Twist. Are there particular details you’d like the audience to pay special attention to?
Fagin is the leader of a group of young thieves in Oliver Twist. If you look closely at his face you can see he looks cunning. He’s holding a jewellery box with a lid that can be opened and closed. He’s also wearing layers of clothing to make him look more three-dimensional.

What do you do if you lack inspiration?
I take a break and play with my two cats.

If you had a time machine, would you travel to the past or future and why?
The future. I’d like to see incredible new inventions and gadgets. Then, when I return to the present, I can make art inspired by the future.

Share with us one of your most unforgettable Christmas memories.
The first time I went out with my family to see the Christmas lights when I was young. It was the most exciting, festive and memorable Christmas.

What advice do you have for youngsters who are passionate about the arts?
Making creative work is like doing experiments. There will be times when you succeed and times when you fail. But don’t be afraid of failure. Learn from it and keep going. It’s important to keep being creative and come up with unique, original ideas.

Who is your favourite artist?
​Julie Taymor, an American stage and film director, playwright and costume designer. She’s most widely recognised for her inventive use of costumes and props for the musical production of The Lion King. Her strong creative instincts enable her to create outfits and accessories appropriate for each character.