Photography by Michaela Giles

Cecilia Cheung’s smile is infectious -- the budding artist and philanthropist can’t help but grin from ear to ear when speaking about Sublimity, her debut solo exhibition at Sotheby’s Gallery Hong Kong. Ahead of the exhibition opening, we speak to the artist about her love for nature and why being both an artist and a collector is one of her greatest assets.

1. What does Hong Kong mean to you?
   

   Hong Kong is home -- I’ve travelled all across the world but I still find Hong Kong to be one of the best places in the world. It has a very special place in my heart.
   
   See also: 10 Things to see at Art Basel Hong Kong 2017

2. Summarise your style of art in one sentence.

   I’ve always loved impressionist and abstract expressionist style of paintings, it certainly influenced my style of work.
   
   

3. What is your proudest accomplishment?

   “Accomplishment” may be too bold of a statement for me. I’m still exploring art, nature and life --searching for a common thread between these elements.
   
   

4. What do you love most about being an artist?

   Through painting I’ve had the opportunity to recreate some of the marvellous places I’ve travelled to. I enjoy being able to express things that have left an impression on me and lifted my spirits—I only hope people have a positive takeaway when seeing my work.

   Photography by Michaela Giles

5. What advice can you offer budding artists? 

   See the world with eyes wide open, open your heart and mind to whatever life brings your way. Appreciate nature and the works of the great masters and most importantly, stay humble.
   
   

6. As an artist what do you think sets you apart from the rest?

   I think I’m fortunate enough to be both an artist and a collector. As an artist, I’m inspired by what I see in nature and during my travels and my style of work is influenced by the impressionists and abstract expressionists. However, as a collector I visit many museums and exhibitions in order to search for pieces that are worthy of collection. I believe my ability to appreciate both sides of the same coin is a unique asset.
   
   

7. What inspires your artwork?

   Being out in the open, being one with nature and allowing myself to be immersed in these environments is my greatest inspiration. There is so much beauty in the world if you make the time to go out and allow yourself to experience it.
   
   See also: Is The Digital Age Killing Art?
   
   

8. What are you most looking forward to with your upcoming exhibition? 

   Sublimity is the title of my debut solo exhibition and I’ve put a lot of time and effort into it. I’m excited for my friends and for other artists to see my work. The exhibition is both exhilarating and liberating as it has allowed me to express my passion and love for art. I hope that others are inspired to pursue their own passions when seeing my work.

   Photography by Michaela Giles

9. What’s your end goal?

   Being able to share my own personal experience of art, nature and life—and being able to inspire people to follow their passions in life, whatever they may be.
   
   

10. Who benefits from your exhibition? 

    All proceeds raised through my exhibition will be donated to the French Chamber Foundation’s Lunch Club, which provides a healthy meal, a support network and training and employment services to the needy.
    
    See Also: Art Talk: Tomokazu Matsuyama On His First Solo Exhibition
    
    

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    Sublimity is open to the public until March 4, 2017, at Sotheby's Gallery, 5/F, One Pacific Place.