Artistic Dream Takes Flight: Olun Keung
From the childhood creation titled ‘Dream Boat’ to where he is today, his story shows how the arts can unlock potential, transform lives, and carry dreams toward wider horizons.
Many dreams begin with an unexpected moment.
At the age of 5, artist with disability, Olun Keung, created an artwork titled ‘Dream Boat’, using leftover materials from Lunar New Year celebrations and fallen bauhinia leaves. This piece was later nominated by a social service organisation to enter the ‘Cross All Borders’ competition organised by Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong (ADAHK), where it received a Merit Prize, making him the youngest award recipient of that edition.
The experience not only gave him tremendous encouragement but also opened the door to the world of art, allowing creative expression to become an important way for him to communicate his inner thoughts and feelings.
As a child, Olun was quiet and reserved, often finding it difficult to express himself verbally. His parents initially attributed his social communication challenges to autistic traits and spent years searching for ways to help him communicate more effectively. Throughout this journey, drawing gradually became an important bridge between parent and child.
To nurture his interest, his parents enrolled him in art programmes offered by various organisations. However, they struggled to find a learning environment that truly suited his needs. As the family lived a considerable distance from ADAHK’s centre, they initially participated in the Association’s activities only occasionally.
A Turning Point in 2018
That year, Olun’s artwork ‘Roller Coaster for Marbles’ again received a Merit Prize at ‘Cross All Borders’ and was exhibited at Tsuen Wan Town Hall. However, the framing and display method limited audience interaction with the artwork, which was an important aspect of his creative concept. As a result, the 11-year-old artist felt disappointed and emotionally affected.
Yet amid the demands of exhibition preparations, staff from ADAHK took the time to listen carefully to Olun’s concerns. They respected his views, accepted his suggestions, and promptly adjusted the presentation of the artwork.
This gesture of understanding and respect deeply touched both Olun and his family.
To them, the Association saw more than just an artwork; it recognised the thoughts, feelings and creative vision of a young artist. This support and encouragement inspired the family to become more actively involved in ADAHK’s programmes, despite the long journey required to attend activities.
Growing Through the Arts
Art gradually became an integral part of Olun’s life.
After school, he would often travel to the Association’s centre independently to attend classes, sometimes participating in several workshops each week. Over the years, his parents witnessed him grow from a child who relied heavily on his family into a young person who was increasingly independent, confident and able to communicate with others. They became convinced that the arts brought positive, lasting changes to his life.
Today, art remains central to his identity and daily life.
Exploring the World Through the Arts and Giving Back
Olun enjoys experimenting with different creative media, using the arts to explore the world and express his observations and reflections. In 2025, he was awarded a scholarship to spend ten months on an exchange programme in Izmir, Turkey’s third-largest city.
During his stay, he put aside his mobile phone and immersed himself in local life, building friendships with fellow students and his host family. He attended concerts and craft workshops, sampled local cuisine, and visited museums, historical sites and landmarks, deepening his understanding of Turkish culture and history.
A long-time enthusiast of trains and buses, Olun found inspiration in the city’s transport network, including its metro system, railways and various vehicles. These experiences inspired a series of paintings and his school exhibition, ‘Olun’s Imagine.’
Upon returning to Hong Kong, Olun is preparing to embark on a new chapter in life. Having grown up around the arts, he will soon pursue studies in architecture at university, continuing the imaginative journey that began in childhood.
While pursuing his dreams, he has never forgotten those who supported him along the way.
In recent years, he has actively participated in volunteer work, supporting children with special educational needs and sharing his experiences to encourage them to explore their own potential.
Dream Boat Continues Its Voyage
Looking back, ‘Dream Boat’ is no longer merely a childhood artwork.
It carries the curiosity of a young boy, the unwavering support of a family, and the limitless possibilities that the arts can offer. For years, this small vessel has carried Olun’s dreams forward, guiding him towards broader horizons and greater aspirations.
His story stands as a powerful reminder of how the arts can transform lives, nurture personal growth, and help dreams set sail.
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