The pace of life in Hong Kong is fast, and although multitasking is the norm, it is not easy to juggle multiple roles and pursue one’s interests or dreams. Felix Chan, who is both a fashion brand PR and manager, and a self-taught illustrator, has a unique understanding of artistic creation.
From a young age, Felix has had a strong interest in art, particularly in performance, theater, and satirical drawings. He began documenting and depicting his love for performance and theater through his works as gifts for performers. Felix Chan has held two exhibitions in Hong Kong, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Sunset Industries. He has also been invited to give a keynote speech at “Today at Apple” in the flagship store in Hong Kong, where he shared his insights on painting and theater.
This personal exhibition, held at Soho House in Sheung Wan, was curated by Felix and contemporary art agency Mi-Tony Creative Inc. It showcases a series of works related to drama and creates a theatrical journey for visitors through specially designed thematic scenes.
Further reading:
- Celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Chinese University with a Mini Art Exhibition, Recreating Famous Landmarks on Campus
- Experience the changes and connections of urban life at the “Urban Species” nighttime art exhibition
- German artist Sabine Finkenauer collaborates with Marimekko, injecting vitality into home decor with geometric patterns
Felix’s series of works are expressed through clean lines, presenting the complex emotions, expressions, and personalities of each performer in specific roles. The works also skillfully capture the details of costumes and set designs. Anticipated works include hand-drawn portraits of Benedict Cumberbatch and Eddie Redmayne, the digital drawing series “Actors In Drag,” and limited edition T-shirts featuring Felix’s paintings of John Partridge and Bob Fosse exhibited on-site.
In addition to the ongoing exhibition, Felix also shared his artistic philosophy and the journey of his creation with ZTYLEZ, telling everyone about his unique perspective.
ZTYLEZ: When did you start loving illustration?
Felix Chan: I have loved drawing since I was young. I wanted to recreate the drawings I saw in plays, TV shows, and cartoons. Drawing has always been a passion of mine.
ZTYLEZ: What is the special reason for the common presence of dramatic elements in illustrations?
Felix Chan: When I was studying in Hong Kong, I felt that it was more of a “cramming” style of education. But after coming to the UK and getting to know the world of stage theater, I realized that the realm of imagination is vast and that anything is possible as long as you can imagine it. This is a very special and powerful sentiment for me because it makes me feel like I can achieve anything. Additionally, I want to do more painting and theater because watching plays from a young age has taught me a lot. For example, watching musicals as a child helped me learn English, and as I grew up, I gained insights into different life lessons. When I draw the characters from these plays, it’s like writing them a “Love Letter” and paying tribute to them. I am grateful for their dedication to giving 100% of themselves on stage every day.
ZTYLEZ: How does having multiple roles (public relations, manager) affect your creativity?
Felix Chan: Actually, it doesn’t have much impact. It’s just because I have a full-time job, so I didn’t consider what to draw in order to make money and be able to draw things I like. But time management is a big issue. I have to make sure I have time to draw. I’m not someone who can just sit down and start drawing. I need to watch dramas and movies to get into the mood for drawing, so time control is the most important thing.
ZTYLEZ: What message does this exhibition want to convey?
Felix Chan: What I want to convey is that I really love the stage, so I have been involved in it for a long time. I gained inspiration from the plays “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Angels in America” to create this large theatrical framework, hoping that the audience can immediately feel that this exhibition is related to drama as soon as they enter.
In addition, I also want to tell others that having a full-time job does not mean you cannot pursue what you want to do or chase your dreams. It doesn’t have to be drawing or art, it can be going to the gym to exercise your muscles, or swimming, horseback riding, skiing. I believe that no one should give up on what they pursue for the sake of their livelihood. The message I want to convey is that no matter how your daily work is, you can still do what you want to do. As long as you want to do something, you will find ways to make it happen.
ZTYLEZ: Which piece of work do you like the most? Why?
Felix Chan: My favorite is a painting by Joey Ma. It’s the first time I’ve showcased my artwork, so it’s very special to me. Joey Ma is a Hong Kong KOL and stylist. He was the first person I met after returning from the UK. I feel like he can completely be himself without compromise, which makes me feel like I can also fearlessly be myself in this constrained and structured place like Hong Kong. It’s very inspiring for me to continue painting.
ZTYLEZ: What difficulties do you think there are in developing an illustration career in Hong Kong?
Felix Chan: I haven’t been in the industry for long, so I can’t say that I’m an artist myself. But I have been involved in the entertainment and art circles for some time, and I feel that creating art is difficult because the market is small and the acceptance level of Hong Kong people is relatively low. Also, doing art in Hong Kong really requires a lot of money. I have also helped some Hong Kong designers with PR, and although many Hong Kong audiences claim to support them, they hesitate when it comes to actually spending money. This is a big problem in Hong Kong. I truly have a lot of respect for those who dedicate themselves 100% to creating art in Hong Kong, because it is truly a difficult thing to do.
Exhibition Dates: Now until September 27th
Address: Ground Floor, 33 Des Voeux Road West, Sheung Wan, Soho House
Text : Ava Chan
Interview : Mimi Kong
