Homegrown comic icons

Some of the most beloved characters from humor-oriented comics created and published in Hong Kong have been brought to life — in the forms of models, blown-up images and animated graphics — at a Hong Kong Heritage Museum exhibition. Cohosted by the museum and the Hong Kong Comics and Animation Federation, Comic Fun for All: The Magic of Hong Kong Comedy Comics is all about 11 homegrown comic characters and their creators. Chosen from different periods in history, the list includes iconic characters such as Old Master Q, featured for the first time in a cartoon published in 1962, and Sau Sing Chai — who first appeared in a 1973 publication — to more recent creations like Taimasing by So Wing-hong, and IT Guy & Art Girl by Bonnie Pang.

In keeping with the theme, the exhibition design is aimed at creating a playful atmosphere. On their way in, visitors are greeted by a large mural featuring all 11 characters, painted next to familiar Hong Kong landmarks. In another section, the focus is on the process of creating comic books. A giant replica of a typical desk used by comic artists meets the eye. Rare original manuscripts of historic Hong Kong comics dating back to the '50s — including a few that were never published — are on display.

The 11 comic characters have a dedicated section each in the exhibition - providing interesting information on the concerned artist, as well as the history and development of the characters. Original sketches, manuscripts, memorabilia and items that served as inspirations for the artists also figure. Some of the early editions of Old Master Q, featuring two of the comics' three main characters, Old Master Q and Mr Chin — as the third, Big Potato, was yet to make an appearance — make interesting reading for fans of the series.

Fun experiences to try out

The show offers interactive experiences. For instance, visitors can try their hand at Rolling Comics Cubes. By pressing a button, it is possible to flip through panels of comic strips displayed on different digital faces of the cube, allowing multiple viewers to enjoy the work at the same time.

"The interactive features definitely add more fun elements to the exhibition, making it feel less like a traditional one. It's wonderful that comics are no longer limited to two-dimensional surfaces," says Alan Wan Siu-lun, vice-president of the Hong Kong Comics and Animation Federation.

Another interactive element — called Digital Caricature — invites visitors to draw themselves as comic characters and watch them come to life. The Comics Photo Booth allows enthusiasts to become a part of their favorite comic strips. Visitors are able to read and physically flip through comic books in the Comics Reading Zone, while being seated comfortably on bean bags with designs referencing the 11 featured comic characters.

The legacy of Hong Kong's comedic comic books extends beyond the city. A section highlights international award-winning works such as Andy Seto's City of Darkness, which won bronze at the 7th Japan International Manga Award in 2014. Also featured are stories of comics that were adapted into TV, movies, video games and merchandise. Examples include the 2005 live-action film Dragon Tiger Gate — starring Donnie Yen, Nicholas Tse and Shawn Yue — based on the eponymous comic series. A series of activities — ranging from talks to movie screenings to drawing workshops led by the artists featured in the exhibition - is on the cards.

Wan hopes the exhibition can inspire children to try making their own comics. "Besides writing, I think trying one's hand at producing comics is the easiest thing for anyone to begin their creative journey with. You don't need any special equipment to start drawing. All it takes is some paper and pencil."