In Vivian Ching’s view, art is something that should not be constrained by technique or definition of right and wrong.
By all accounts, she is a rare breed in the art world.
During weekdays, Ching keeps herself busy with her operations management job with a data center. But on weekends, she puts on a different hat and spends her time in a studio in Central, absorbing herself in the world of painting.
Ching has an impressive background in economics and management training, and she has been pursuing a career in that direction. But with a strong desire to create and to express herself, she felt that something was missing.
Four years ago, she decided to “choose her dream”, an advice she received from American physician Patch Adams whom she met while in college.
Adams is said to be a firm believer in positive thinking. He organizes volunteers from around the world to dress up as clowns and bring cheer to patients, believing that such unorthodox relief will help people recover.
Compared to Vincent Van Gogh, who struggled to make a living and sold only one painting before he died, or Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama (one of Ching’s favorites) who suffered from nervous breakdown because she could not take negative reviews, Ching is extremely lucky.
Right from the beginning, Ching met a good teacher. Rather than imposing rules and skills on Ching, her teacher soon identified her talent and encouraged her to develop her unique style.
Through her teacher, Ching met an art gallery owner, who also appreciated her colorful, abstract work. Before long, Ching received media attention and also had her first solo exhibition. Her works were bought by numerous collectors, including individuals and companies.
Aiming to do something like Adams, Ching hopes the vibrant colors of her paintings can bring joy and positive energy to people.
Keen to give something back to society, Ching has been involved in charity work.
For instance, in June, she will be joining a workshop organized by International Women’s Peace Group, showing kids how to paint on bottles. The theme for the event would be how to contribute to a better Hong Kong, an attitude much needed at the moment when everybody seems to be whining about everything.
Ching also holds painting classes from time to time.
Like her teacher, she won’t be focusing too much on the technical side, but more on inspiring and instilling in students a positive thinking spirit — the spirit of not letting others stop you from pursuing your dream, even though you may not seem to have the right qualifications.
“No matter what people or the society tells you what you can or cannot do, ultimately, it’s up to you to make things happen,” says Ching.
Asked what she thinks about the gloom in Hong Kong, Ching said, not surprisingly, that people should stop complaining and instead “do something about it”.