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Kylie Knott

The ceramic figurines on display in Hong Kong’s Wan Chai district depict crazy creatures that push the boundaries of the imagination. That is the point.
“Morning Relay” is an exhibition at St James’ Creation (SJC), a platform under the St James’ Settlement charity that supports people with intellectual disabilities and autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a neurological condition that affects how people socialise, learn and behave.
Kasper Lam, SJC assistant arts development manager, says the exhibition celebrates the participants’ artistic journey over the past year.
“For most, it is the first time they have exhibited their works,” says Lam, adding that sketches and photographs are also part of the exhibition.
“By sharing their work and receiving recognition from the community, it encourages participants to continue to develop their skills and pursue art,” he says.

Among the participants is Lam Yuk-ying, who created several ceramic dragons in honour of the Year of the Dragon.
“Some of my creations include a dragon egg and baby dragons,” she says. “My most elaborate work is The Dragon Prince, which took several weeks to complete.”
Another participant, Ng Kwok-fai, says working with clay brings him joy.
“I like to make animals out of clay, such as squirrels and puppies,” says Ng.
“Creating cute animal sculptures and helping in the ceramic studio fills me with joy. I love my art time and am glad it makes me feel good inside.”

For the show, Ng sculpted a monster titled Mr Ink that has a human face but four legs.
“Look closely and you can see that he has an apple on his head and a fish in his hand!
“He is special though, and can make things appear out of nowhere – I thought it would be fun to give him this magic power.”
The ceramics, about 50 pieces in total, were created by students of all levels. They include houses that reflect the artists’ concept of home, while the monster pieces show what is possible when the imagination is unleashed.
Live clay demonstrations that allow visitors to engage with the artists and see first-hand the skills they have acquired is rewarding for the artists, says Kasper Lam.
“The positive support can inspire them to continue working with clay.”












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The tactile properties of clay also allow participants to learn in a fun, hands-on way. “From houses to giants, each piece tells a story,” Kasper Lam says.
Many of the artists do not speak, so making things out of clay can help them express feelings without words, he adds.
Studies have shown that art therapy is a valuable tool for those with developmental disabilities and social challenges, with benefits ranging from improved self-expression to reduced stress.
It also offers alternative ways to communicate when words are limited or non-existent.
“Our goal is to demonstrate how art can be an empowering force for people with disabilities,” says Kasper Lam.

Another goal is to promote social inclusion, part of the SJC’s mission.
Artwork created through SJC programmes has been exhibited in more than 10 locations worldwide. Locally, the platform – which was established in 1999 under the rehabilitation services of St James’ Settlement – has engaged more than a million people through community education and arts programmes.
“I am happy that I get to show everyone my clay sculptures in the demonstration sessions,” says Lam Yuk-ying.
“I love talking to people while they watch me work and if someone wants to know how I make the clay work, I can tell them the steps. It is fun to share what I have learned.”
“Morning Relay”, St James’ Creation Gallery, 85 Stone Nullah Lane, Wan Chai, Tuesday to Saturday, 1pm-6pm. Ends October 30.
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Lam Yuk-ying (left) and Ng Kwok-fai (right) display their ceramic creations at the ‘Morning Relay’ exhibition, which features works by individuals with intellectual disabilities and neurodiverse artists.      08OCT24.     SCMP / May Tse

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Live clay demonstrations also allow visitors to engage with the artists who are affected by intellectual disabilities such as autism


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