In this summer issue, we continue to explore artworks of the “Gift of Love” project in Kwun Tong House that touches the hearts of many. Cherry Kaeonil, whose works “Circles of Friends” on the 4th floor, “Our Berry Good Friends” on the 10th floor, and “Bellybutton Kids” on the 12th floor, all created a happy escapism – a step away from stress, connecting across generations.
How did you become an artist?
Art has always been a part of my life. I’ve been drawing and doodling for fun ever since I can remember. However, I really learned a lot from finishing the UC San Diego Children’s Book Illustration Program.
Please tell us about the artwork for “Gift of Love”. What are the essential must-have elements to be included and why?
The artworks include Bellybutton Kids, Circle of Friends, and Our Berry Good Friends, all have a fun fantasy, friendly characters, happy escapism, and a bit of childhood nostalgia, which I hope to connect across generations. Take “Bellybutton Kids” for example, everyone who has grown up in Hong Kong has snacked on those sweet and adorable bellybutton biscuits.
What were the experiences participating in this project?
It was smooth as everyone in the project I worked with was good at communicating and responding. They made it easy because they told me exactly what they needed, and I did not have to guess. We were even given a private tour of the building once it was completed. I appreciated that tour a lot, which allowed me to see the art as the families will experience it.
How do you think the artworks could help our children and families?
I hope they will help the brave and amazing children and their families escape from stress to heal together. The artworks are meant to bring fun and joy to their day. In Bellybutton Kids, you can see the different actions each Bellybutton Kids is doing to inspire the viewers’ imagination to go along for the ride. In Our Berry Good Friends, there are little mischievous characters hidden throughout the drawing, so this could be a game to find them all. In Circle of Friends, you can feel the friendliness of these characters rooting for us to heal and to be happy. I hope that these artworks can inspire wonderment, imagination, and a little moment of peace in a faraway place of happiness.
What do you think about the service of RMHC Hong Kong?
The Kwun Tong House is such a great community resource for families in need. The services provided are tremendously important since the RMHC Hong Kong keeps families together and provides unmatched support while they are going through tough times. Hong Kong is lucky to have two houses through the RMHC, and I feel grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of such an incredible institution doing this super work for our children and families.
Photo captions:
- Circles of Friends on the 4th floor of the Kwun Tong House.
- Our Berry Good Friends on the 10th floor of the Kwun Tong House.
- Bellybutton Kids on the 12th floor of the Kwun Tong House.