Recently, Kaho held a solo concert at the Hung Hom Coliseum and released his new album “Inner | Child”. The album tells the story of how there is still a part of childhood in every mature person’s heart, such as innocence, purity, curiosity, etc., which may be forgotten or suppressed. Kaho hopes to use his story of reverse growth to help everyone rediscover their true selves.
Therefore, the album design incorporates a lot of illustrations, all drawn by Hong Kong illustrator Don Mak , hoping to bring everyone into the inner world of this “big and small road” and feel a different side of Hong Jiahao.
Don Mak, Hong Kong illustrator.
Mak Tung Kei (formerly Mak Chun Tung) grew up in Hong Kong and has been working as an illustrator in Hong Kong for over ten years, ranging from comics to advertising design, often focusing on Hong Kong street scenes in his works. With his realistic and delicate strokes, he captures the nostalgic landscapes of Hong Kong, complemented by a warm color palette, creating a unique dreamy atmosphere. He later became a full-time illustrator, establishing his personal brand “Mak Tung Kei,” which is highly acclaimed in the industry.
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Preserve the marks of the old district
Wandering the city is his habit and hobby. Especially passionate about old things, most of what he draws are things that have already been demolished, such as the Tung Tak Pawnshop in Wan Chai, the Dragon Gate Hotel in Wan Chai, and the Wan Chai street market without luxury homes. Not only does it bring back fragments of memory, but his drawings are full of detail and rich in storytelling, making people aware of the different aspects of this city. It is also filled with his imagination, memories, and emotions towards the place.
Explore Hong Kong through his eyes
Under the sediment of more life, sharp observation, and profound themes, he held a personal exhibition, published picture book works, and shared his view of Hong Kong with others.
For example, the first solo exhibition held in 2016, “Hong Kong Story Corner,” depicted six representative events in Hong Kong from the 1960s to the present, using city street corners to showcase the silhouette of the era, revealing the turning points of Hong Kong’s time. The picture book “Hong Kong Stills” describes Hong Kong in 2018, and even invited the contemporary representative of the Northern Wei calligraphy style to inscribe the title. In these seemingly ordinary daily street corners, not only can you feel the atmosphere and characteristics of this city, but when pieced together, you can also see the historical scenery of Hong Kong over the years.
Related to nostalgia
In the past, he has also collaborated with many brand companies, covering various categories such as lifestyle, fashion, and dining, such as: HSBC, CASETiFY, Louis Vuitton, Warner Music Hong Kong, Soho House Hong Kong, Tramway HK, Samsung, Rosewood Hotel, Hong Kong Arts Centre, Time Out Hong Kong, Milk Magazine, The M+ Museum, and his works retain many elements or colors of old Hong Kong.
For example, for the online release of the song “The Last Record Store” by the band Dear Jane, he created nine Instagram illustrations, focusing on local small shops, connecting the characteristics of eight old districts such as Yuen Long, Mong Kok, and Sham Shui Po; or designing five pin series for singer Lin Jiaqian’s “Summer Blues concert 2022” concert, including the Hung Hom Coliseum and the iconic ferry.
In his works, there is more of a sense of life. He strives to record those precious memories and things that are right beside us, in our hearts. Each work is his reflection on the present moment, and he also hopes to provide more records and inspiration for the next generation.
And this time, Don Mak’s illustrations have added many childlike colors and KAHO-related elements, such as cars, stars, smiley faces, and also incorporated KAHO’s playful expressions taken in the park for the album. He also tried out different musical styles to present his playful and whimsical side.
Kaho Hong, using the ordinary name “KAHO,” plays an ordinary person like you and me under the spotlight, sharing ordinary stories through ordinary life experiences. Real growth is not necessarily dreamy, but at this moment, I want everyone to rediscover their inner child and enjoy the process and joy of unwrapping gifts.
Whether it’s “The Prophet” or “Demonstration Life,” why not watch “Starry Sky” with him in this “Decaying Paradise” and grow up together!
Feedback: @donmak
