Exhibition by a Hong Kong artist who’s on the autism spectrum an example of how art can unlock creative potential

Before he took up painting, Wong Sai-kit was quiet and reclusive. Today, thanks to his brushes – and spoons – his world is a brighter, happier place. Wong, 51, has an intellectual disability and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurological condition that affects how people socialise, learn and behave. Like many on the spectrum, Wong has a heightened sensitivity to light. He also struggles to communicate. Art helps him express himself – and he does it in a bold, colourful way. “I feel happy when I paint,” says Wong, whose works are on show in “Art Beyond Boundaries” at The Park Lane Hong Kong hotel in Causeway Bay on Hong Kong Island until May 1. The exhibition not only celebrates the hotel’s 50th anniversary – and its commitment to fostering community and cultural ties – but shows how artists can challenge and redefine boundaries. The exhibition is a collaboration with Fu Hong Society, a Hong Kong non-governmental organisation supporting individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities, including those battling mental health issues and those on the autism spectrum. Proceeds from the sale of Wong’s art will help support the charity’s work. ‘His lifeline’: how schizophrenic Hong Kong artist used creativity to cope Wong’s creative journey started when his family enrolled him in art classes the NGO organised. “I started creating art, using a spoon as a medium, under the guidance of an art instructor … I enjoyed it. I have more than 50 spoons,” says Wong, who also uses paintbrushes in his works. He held a solo exhibition in 2022. Wong’s journey aligns with Fu Hong’s goals of promoting social inclusion and harnessing the potential of those with disabilities: its staff saw how spoons acted like keys that unlocked his creative potential. “Recognising his need for visual stimulation, occupational therapists arranged sensory integration training for Sai-kit,” says Darren Wan, Fu Hong’s service unit manager, who is also Wong’s social worker and mentor. This training helps the brain recognise and respond to information the senses provide. Now, whenever Wong gets upset, Fu Hong staff encourage him to use spoons to reflect light, which has a calming influence. “Sai-kit’s emotions have become more stable, and he is more willing to express his needs, building good relationships with his peers and staff,” Wan says. Art, Wan says, has greatly helped Wong’s progress. “Art gives him a space to freely share his daily observations, things he likes, and his thoughts with others.” Staff have noticed significant changes in Wong’s behaviour and mood since he took up art. He used to be introverted and quiet and struggled to express himself, immersed in his own world, says Wan. “Since he started painting, his daily life has become more enriching, with new interests and activities.” One of the hallmarks of autism is having difficulty with verbal and social communication. Studies have shown that art therapy can be an effective means of helping people express their needs, emotions and thoughts in a stress-free environment. “In the past, when Sai-kit felt unhappy, he would hit himself or punch a wall and make ‘moo moo’ sounds until he found a spoon,” Wan recalls. Many behaviours, such as hitting oneself, are about self-regulation, says Hong Kong psychologist Bertie Wai. The “moo moo” sound that Wong use to make, says Wai, is also about self-regulation. “People on the spectrum often find repetitive behaviour self-soothing,” Wai says, adding that it is important to find out what triggers extreme behaviour. “Is the room they are in too bright, too noisy, too hot, too smelly, et cetera? Are they annoyed because they want something that’s not allowed? Is the tag in their shirt bothering them? Managing triggers is an important part of preventive measures,” Wai says. For those on the spectrum, Wai says early intervention is key – and therapy is an important part of long-term management. At the Park Lane Hong Kong exhibition space, Wong proudly shows off five spoons, including his favourite that his father gave him. They are more than just eating utensils: they are his tools, each with its own unique story. “A staff member who took care of me for many years retired and gave me a spoon. My mentor and family have also given me spoons as gifts,” says Wong. He uses them to paint every day. “I observe the world and paint what I see,” he says. That includes birds, flowers, trams and boats. “My favourite thing to paint with a spoon is a goldfish. I use a spoon to dot the black eyes and paint its body in red,” he says. His favourite drawing is one of him and his father. Wong also enjoys observing refracted light using a spoon. “He will hold a spoon between his eyes and a light bulb, creating unique light and shadow effects through different rhythms and movements,” says Wan. “The light and shadow effects created by the spoon not only bring Sai-kit a sense of peace but inspire his creative ideas.” Like what you read? Follow SCMP Lifestyle on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. You can also sign up for our eNewsletter here.