Joannah Hon Pui-yan, a 32-year-old artist known as Jobey, has gained attention by sharing her oversized oil paintings of local cultural figures on the streets of Hong Kong. Her short videos, often accompanied by classic Cantonese music, feature her posing next to various subjects, including taxi drivers and fishmongers as well as tai chi practitioners.
Hon started posting on her Instagram account, @jobeyhon, in June 2025, and has since attracted 18,000 followers. One of her most popular videos showcases a painting revealed in a wet market, garnering 1.5 million views and over 79,000 likes. Hon expressed her desire to bring art into public spaces, stating that artists typically work in isolation and that sharing her inspiration helps connect her with others.
Her work reflects relatable themes, aiming to resonate with a broad audience. Hon continues to paint in her studio located in Sai Ying Pun.
- Why it matters: The rise of digital platforms like Instagram allows artists to reach wider audiences and engage with local communities through relatable content.
- The visibility of local culture may foster appreciation and support for traditional trades and practices.
- The latest: Jobey’s Instagram following has rapidly grown, reflecting an increasing interest in her work since she began sharing it just months ago.
Source: https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts/article/3328818/hong-kong-artist-who-paints-local-people-then-reveals-art-public-goes-viral-ig
Source: https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/arts/article/3328818/hong-kong-artist-who-paints-local-people-then-reveals-art-public-goes-viral-ig