Meet Ticko Liu, a talented artist based in Hong Kong. Dive in to discover how winning The Sovereign Art Foundation Hong Kong Students Prize in 2018 has transformed his artistic journey. You won’t want to miss his inspiring story!
How do you feel winning The Hong Kong Students Prize in 2018 has benefitted your career as an artist?
Winning the Hong Kong Students Prize in 2018 was a pivotal moment in my journey as an artist. It wasn’t
just an accolade; it was a profound affirmation of my voice and vision within the creative landscape. The
recognition provided a platform that allowed others to see and engage with my work, and more
importantly, it gave me the confidence to trust my instincts and continue exploring the depth of my
practice.
The prize opened doors to opportunities that, as a young artist, felt almost intangible at the time. It
connected me to other artists who are working in the same field, like Jacky Tao, one of the winners of this
award, who worked in Chinese ink painting. After six years, and we are still exchanging ideas and
thoughts about the creative process and artworks constantly.
On a personal level, the award also challenged me to think critically about the direction of my work. I
found myself asking deeper questions about my purpose as a painter. The Hong Kong Students Prize was not just a milestone but a foundation. I believe that art has the power to connect, provoke, and inspire. It’s a reminder that every piece I paint has the potential to carry forward the legacy of that moment, while simultaneously forging new paths for the future.
What advice would you give to aspiring young artists currently participating in the Students Prize?
Surround yourself with other artists—they’re your allies, your support system. Friends like Jacky Tao and I
have shared advice, exchanged ideas, and motivated one another to keep going. Building a community of
creative minds will inspire you and help you grow.
Looking ahead, what are your future plans or goals?
Right now, I’m fully immersed in creating a series of new paintings for Art Basel Hong Kong 2025. It’s an
exciting challenge, and I’m pouring my heart into each piece. Stay tuned—there’s so much more to come,
and I can’t wait to share these new works with the world!
How do you think you have evolved since winning the prize?
Time has a way of flowing so beautifully, and with it, I feel I’ve grown in ways I never imagined., and i want to capture the trace of time. My painting style has evolved, becoming more personal and reflective with each piece I create. After finishing a drawing, I often find myself struck by the thought that this work will outlive me—it’s a part of me that will stay forever. That realization has deepened my connection to art and made me dream of the future.
One of my biggest aspirations is to hold an exhibition 50 years from now—a collection of every single
drawing. I’ve created throughout my life. To see them all together, side by side, would be like telling the
story of my journey as an artist, a celebration of time, growth, and the enduring power of creativity.
**Image of Ticko’s winning Artwork from 2018**
