From the moment Lau You-gi, a Grade 12 student at Diocesan Boys’ School, exhibited his first artwork at the Asia Hotel Art Fair at just five years old, his life took a decisive turn.
“Having had the opportunity to exhibit at such a young age, the experience not only gave me a platform to showcase my early creative passion – it also instilled a confidence that continues to fuel my artistic journey and push me beyond my limits,” he recalled.
That early public display affirmed You-gi’s place in the world of art. Even as a child, he felt a deep urge to communicate ideas that words couldn’t capture, to invite others into his universe through colour, form and texture. This aspiration – to speak through images – became the compass guiding every brushstroke from then on.
You-gi, now 17, won the top honour in the Visual Artist category of the 2024/25 Student of the Year Awards. The awards were organised by the South China Morning Post and solely sponsored by The Hong Kong Jockey Club.
Since 2014, You-gi’s role as arts ambassador for the Young Artists Development Foundation has further deepened his belief in art’s power to unite. Through exhibitions, contests and charity events, he has witnessed first-hand how creativity bridges divides.
“Being an arts ambassador allowed me to see the shared passion for art among people of all ages and backgrounds,” he said.
Whether mentoring a retiree learning watercolour or collaborating with a teenager exploring mixed media, You-gi has discovered that art dissolves barriers and cultivates genuine connection.
These experiences have cemented his conviction that art is a cornerstone of community building and youth empowerment.
One transformative moment stands out. “I still vividly remember teaching Chinese calligraphy at a primary school in the Czech Republic,” You-gi recalled. “I was thrilled to see every participant, despite the language barrier, writing in an unfamiliar script with complete enthusiasm. Watching children trace foreign characters with joy made me realise that communities from different backgrounds can be united through art.”
He has also launched a platform called VisualVoke, which connects young artists across the globe. Today, VisualVoke stands as the first international youth art platform dedicated to creative expression and advocacy.
“I’m thrilled by the positive feedback we’ve received,” You-gi said. “Knowing that our team and these young talents are already making an impact on communities near and far is incredibly rewarding.”
