Joy Chen Hiu-yan’s journey as a self-taught artist began at the age of 13 when she discovered her love for art through Jandy Nelson’s I’ll Give You the Sun, a young adult novel that meditates on life and art.
“Art is my way of understanding the world and expressing my thoughts and feelings,” said the 17-year-old student from Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong.
Joy’s dedication to self-improvement led her to earn an art scholarship, a pivotal moment that set her on her artistic path. “Winning the scholarship was a turning point for me. It gave me the opportunity to explore different artistic mediums and styles,” she said.
Artwork by Joy, who is a self-taught artist. Photo: Handout
At the age of 15, she ventured into oil painting, seeking inspiration from artists like Nicolas Uribe. Her unique artistic journey has allowed her to explore various styles and mediums, including sculpture.
One notable project was Metamorphosis, a sculpture installation depicting the grief Joy felt after her father passed away. It illustrates the internal metamorphosis of accepting loss. The project delved into the emotional journey one undergoes during challenging times.
Beyond her artistic endeavours, Joy believes in the power of art to convey important messages and create positive change, especially on issues affecting marginalised communities. Inspired by artists like Frida Kahlo and Ai Weiwei, Joy has made it her mission to incorporate social justice themes into her artwork, addressing pressing concerns such as anti-Asian racism in Western countries during the Covid-19 pandemic and the fight for LGBTQ rights.
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“Art is a powerful tool for change. It allows me to shed light on issues that are often ignored or misunderstood,” she said.
This dedication to social justice through art earned Joy first place in the Visual Artist category at the Student of the Year (SOTY) Awards. The awards are organised by the South China Morning Post and solely sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club. The judges described Joy as a self-taught artist who has developed a unique style of expression through drawing.
Joy’s commitment to social justice extends to her role as the co-founder of XinSai Magazine, a student-led organisation that strives to bring justice to a global audience.
Joy says she is inspired by Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Photo: Getty Images
“XinSai Magazine is a platform where we can give a voice to those who need it most,” Joy explained. The magazine features interviews with inspirational figures, engages in street interviews on critical topics, and explores diverse perspectives worldwide.
Joy is also a founding member of the Sealamat Foundation, which shares the stories of marginalised communities through a podcast and social media platform. It aims to uplift those who play vital but overlooked roles in society.
Looking ahead, Joy remains committed to promoting social justice through art. She envisions creating pieces that address critical issues, such as depicting the diverse experiences of the LGBTQ community.
