While you were sleeping

Abstract Animation

In my first semester as an MFA student in Hong Kong, I embarked on an exploratory journey through the city’s vibrant streets. Immersed in the bustling urban landscape, I was captivated by the iconic neon signage and kaleidoscopic lights that define Hong Kong’s unique visual identity. This neon-lit nightscape, a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, forms the pulsating heart of the city and stands as a testament to Hong Kong’s enduring allure in popular and cyberpunk culture.

Renowned globally for its cyberpunk ambiance, Hong Kong’s urban scenery is not just a backdrop but a narrative in itself, a living organism that echoes the themes of futuristic dystopia and digital revolution. Through the lens of time-lapse photography and stop-motion animation techniques, my project sought to animate these neon lights, transforming them from static symbols to dynamic storytellers.

In my animations, these vibrant lights do more than just illuminate the night; they narrate the city’s untold stories, embodying the spirit of resilience and innovation. As ‘masters of the night,’ they bear witness to the ever-changing socio-cultural landscape of Hong Kong, reflecting a city that is constantly in flux yet firmly rooted in its history. My work is an ode to this neon legacy, a visual symphony that captures the energy, charm, and paradoxical harmony of Hong Kong’s cyberpunk reality.