Street Talk: Grand So
Veteran artist and former graphic designer Grand So happily showcases his work outdoors—right on Hollywood Road, between a formal gallery and The Press Room. Grand explains his artistic philosophy, and how the open air is his inspiration, to Katie Chan.
HK Magazine: What made you decide that art was the only thing you wanted to do?
Grand So: Since my retirement in 2000, I didn’t want to be involved in the corporate world anymore. In fact, I learned from being in advertising for over 30 years that everything was money-driven. I didn’t enjoy this culture, and chose to pursue my interest in art instead.
HK: How come you chose to base yourself here on Hollywood Road?
GS: I grew up on this street, and as a child I would come here to find little treasures. I come here when I am happy or upset. There’s just something about this street that makes me want to keep returning.
HK: Why do you like to paint outside?
GS: While painting outside is challenging, I have noticed that those who just stay inside do not produce good pieces, and therefore you need to expand your creativity by looking beyond four walls. When you’re in the open, you’re basically racing against the weather since it’s so unpredictable. Once, from out of nowhere, the sky just poured down with torrential rain, all my paintings were soaked, and myself, and I had to take shelter in Angela [Li]’s gallery.
HK: How many paintings do you think you have produced since you started?
GS: Since being here, I think I have done over 1,000 paintings, all with different styles telling their own story. I love my abstract paintings the most, because most of them are inspired by my interest in philosophy.
HK: Do you ever miss your paintings when you sell them?
GS: I see all my paintings as my daughters, and within the Chinese tradition, the parents’ wish is for their daughter to marry a good husband and into a caring family so that she will have a happy life. It’s the same with my artwork. I only sell to those who I believe will truly take care of and respect them. The last thing I want to see is my paintings being used as tablecloths.
HK: You have your first indoor gallery at City Walk in Tsuen Wan. Can you tell us more about it?
GS: You will see my paintings of cats, scenery and abstract work. I particularly love drawing cats; they represent me, with some elements of a lion but extremely friendly on the inside. Cats have their own individual personality and won’t change for anyone else; they are loyal to those who care. I can draw cats straight away, without needing to look at them; you will notice that it’s my style not to draw their eyes, though.
