Spotlight On YAFies: Candice Keung

Candice Keung
Spark! Art Empowerment Programme Artist

How many small group homes or foster care organisations have you visited through the Spark! Art Empowerment Programme?
Maybe between six and eight? I’ve lost count! Each centre is unique, because of the environment or the personalities of the children. I often adjust the content and direction of the workshop based on what I observe during the first two sessions.

Can you share what the workshops are about and why you use this approach?
Many of the children initially think of art as something decorative. To capture their interest, the first sessions often involve creating “pretty” work. As we progress, I gradually introduce self-expression, guiding them to explore their individuality as well as aesthetics.

Later, I shift the focus to their personal thoughts, encouraging them to design items such as shoes and bags. I don’t just teach colour theory; I often ask open-ended questions like “How does this colour make you feel?” or “What does this piece remind you of?” This encourages them to put their thoughts and feelings into the creation process and produce something that's truly their own.

We focus on making functional items that they can use every day, such as name tags, keychains, shoes, and tote bags. Combining creativity and practicality like this can make art more tangible for them.

You offered to extend the workshops from 4 to 8 sessions. What inspired this? 
During the workshops, I noticed that the children were very interested in exploring the theme of “self”. They grew bolder in expressing themselves through art and became more confident. Initially they were quite hesitant and shy, but they soon transformed into individuals eager to share their thoughts and feelings. That inspired me to provide more time and space for them to continue their self-discovery.

Can you share a memorable moment?
One boy stood out to me. He was very guarded at first, often creating chaotic scribbles and disturbing the class. He wasn't the easiest student to get along with, but I encouraged him and never dismissed his doodles. Slowly, he started to enjoy the workshops and would even arrive at class early. Although he remained strong-willed and didn't always follow instructions, that wasn’t a bad thing. It was just how he expresses himself, and that self-expression helped him grow.

What was the most challenging aspect?
The biggest challenge was the venue. The small group homes don’t have art supplies, so I had to take all materials we needed with me and adapt on the spot. However, being able to create art in a familiar space allowed the children to feel safe, and helped them see that creating art is something you can do at home.

In one session, I asked them to create graffiti-style self-portraits using a single line and hang them on the living room wall. The children were both amused and amazed by each other’s paintings and the room turned into a gallery filled with laughter. It was really surprising and touching.

How has participating in the Spark! Art Empowerment Programme influenced you?
It has taught me to be patient and empathetic, and shown me that the real value of the arts is in connections and self-discovery.

What tips do you have for working with young people?
Mutual respect is key. Trying to see things from the young person’s perspective really helps to build connections. But the same applies to all relationships, not just to young people.

What is your vision for an ideal society?
In my mind, the ideal society is filled with understanding and inclusion. Everyone can find their place and be supported to follow their dreams, regardless of their background. Individuality and uniqueness would be celebrated, and inequality wouldn’t exist.