Spotlight on YAFies: Chao Harn-kae

Chao Harn-kae
Artist with The Hong Kong Jockey Club Community Project Grant: stART Up Community Arts Project “Portraitsss”

How did you become a ceramic artist? 
I’ve been interested in painting and sculpture since I was young and have been working in these two areas since graduation. I’m grateful to have had the chance to work with professional sculpture artists from around the world and to create sculptures for all kinds of scenarios, like window-displays, shopping malls, stage performances, props and sculptures in amusement parks. In the past, I’ve created art from wood, iron, copper and cement, but my chosen medium at the moment is ceramics.

What inspired you to move from Malaysia to Hong Kong?
In 2003, when Hong Kong was constructing Disneyland, they advertised for sculptors in Malaysia. I had the chance to work on that project and have lived in Hong Kong ever since.

How would you describe the style of your work?
Most of my sculptures take the form of quirky, whimsical creatures with human elements. I want my work to reveal human feelings and emotions, but I also try to keep it simple and retain a certain naivety and vitality. As I was born in Malaysia, I grew up with a mix of Eastern, Western and other cultures. At university I majored in fine arts and graduated in oil painting. I’ve also acquired a lot of essential skills and techniques at work, all of which helped me develop my own style of sculpture.

What is the process involved in creating a ceramic sculpture?
It starts with a good idea. Once I have the inspiration, I use a variety of techniques to make the artwork stand out and show emotion.

What’s special about the portrait sculptures created for the “Start Up Community Arts Project”?
In this project, participating students created colourful clay sculptures inspired by their research on cultures and traditions around the world. I think it was a fascinating learning opportunity.

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What impressed you most about the youngsters’ creative work?
The participating students came from different schools, and all of them were talented, creative and productive. I was surprised that they were already using digital art software as a creative medium.

How would you define “beauty”?
Even this question is subjective! Something one person finds “ugly” can also be beautiful. Beauty is authenticity, sincerity and kindness.

What advice would you give to young people who are passionate about visual arts?
You don't have to start by studying visual arts. Just observe the things around you and spend more time on your interests. It’s very important that you feel excited about the work you do!

What is your favourite thing about Hong Kong?
I’m drawn to Hong Kong’s vibrant lifestyle – everyone works hard and contributes to the community.