Meet the Qrafties II: Lindsey McAlister, Founder of Crafty Bitch and HKYAF

5 Mins Read

After 45 years of creating performing artworks last year, Lindsey delved back into creating visual art, she sees a strong correlation between both genres as she uses language, images, colours, textures, messages & emotions in her creations. Lindsey sees her work as a love letter to Hong Kong. “It’s a way to celebrate my home of the past 37 years. I like to describe my work as “Uniquely Hong Kong”. Her work has a nostalgic, sentimental feeling as she uses vintage images juxtaposed with contemporary photographs & found images.

In 2006 she was recognised as an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for her commitment & contribution to UK arts overseas.

Could you tell us about your journey into art and what you find most fulfilling about it?

After 45 years of creating performing artworks last year I delved back into creating visual art, which isn’t a million miles away from how I create a performance. I use language, images, colours, textures, messages & emotions in both genres. I am addicted to creating and feel totally in my element in either the rehearsal studio or my art studio at home. I am full immersed from the moment I begin, and the hours fly by because I am doing something that I feel passionate about.

Can you share with us about the artwork series you've made? What inspired you to create them?

I see my current work as a love letter to Hong Kong. It’s a way to celebrate my home of the past 37 years. I like to describe my work as “Uniquely Hong Kong” I enjoy creating Hong Kong collages, both handmade and digital and recently, I have been experimenting with colour block prints, in which I switch up the colours for a pop art feel which I think replicates the energy of Hong Kong.

What sparked your interest in digital art, and how has it influenced your creative process?

I was originally making handmade works and my son, Sam who is a bit geeky suggested that I try a digital platform to create and initially I was dismissive…I’m not very tech savvy so I was unsure if I’d be able to create in a screen. He persisted and I tried it... and wow! Totally converted me to try new things such as creating with the platform Procreate, all my colour block prints are drawn on a tablet. Who said you can’t teach an old dog new tricks!!! Ha!!

Is there anything you want people to experience or feel when they view your artwork

I think my work has a nostalgic feeling as I use vintage images juxtaposed with my own photographs & found images, so I think people would get a sentimental feeling from my work. I hope people feel my love of Hong Kong from my artworks.

Who is the artist that has had the biggest influence on your art journey and why?

I think visual artist would have to be Warhol as I love the pop art movement and that has influenced my colour choices & repetitive images and use of icons. For performance artist maybe Pina Bausch, she is recognized as one of the most significant choreographers of our time. She brought together dance and everyday movement with theatre, speech, music and clever use of props and sets.

What are your thoughts on AI-generated art, and do you see yourself incorporating it into your work in the future?

I’m intrigued…but skeptical!! I think AI is a great tool but can’t take the place of an artist (at least I hope not!!) I haven’t tried…but never say never!

Apart from creating art, what do you enjoy doing in your free time?

When I’m not directing a show or working in the studio I enjoy spending time with friends and my family, we live in a lovely bright orange village house in Sai Kung I enjoy spending time there. I read quite a lot, I read books but also listen to audio books when I’m hiking or driving! I’m a big Netflix fan and binge watch too many series! I try to exercise as I know I need that in my life so I either drag myself up the steep hill outside our home or go to the gym.

Do you have a personal motto or have you received any valuable advice?

Absolutely…’If you don’t ask, you don’t get” This has served me well in my fundraising for the Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation (YAF) I’m a big believer in asking for what I want/need…if the universe doesn’t know what you want how can it give it to you?

“The beautiful thing about any art form is that you can NEVER be wrong, that’s very liberating!”

— Lindsey McAlister, Founder of Crafty Bitch and HKYA Foundation

You founded Crafty Bitch and run the Hong Kong Youth Art Foundation. What inspired you to create the foundation and what motivates you to continue supporting the industry after three decades?

I started the Foundation 30 years ago, it has been my life’s work. I was inspired to start it as I wanted young people from different backgrounds, cultures, and abilities to have the free-of-charge opportunity to experience high-quality arts. I am continually motivated by the young people I get the chance to meet and the way that the arts change their lives.

As a dedicated member who has played a key role in providing opportunities for young artists in the art and creative industries, what guidance would you offer aspiring creatives who wish to pursue their passion?

As Nike so succinctly says “Just Do It”…don’t overthink…just have a go!! The beautiful thing about any artform is that you can NEVER be wrong, that’s very liberating!

WORDS FROM OUR FOUNDER

“I've always been impressed by Lindsey's energy. She is passionate about what she does and always has a can-do attitude. In a way, I think her artwork reflects her personality and character. The vibrant colors of her artwork speak to her positive attitude, and her mix of media shows that she's always willing to try and improve, and not afraid of failure. I'm also impressed with her dedication to empowering young talents. I'm grateful to have Lindsey as part of the Qraftie Community and look forward to collaborating with her on some exciting initiatives soon.”

Thank you for being an appreciative reader as always. Meet the Qrafties II is a series of Qraftie sellers’ stories, sharing with you the passion and hard work behind the creative works you see in their Qraftie stores. If you enjoy reading this blog post, please share it with your family and friends. Stay tuned for our next Meet the Qrafties story.

September 2023