Millions of people have seen Australian artist Emma Hack’s work, and you’re probably one of them.

If you’ve wandered over to Youtube and clicked on Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used To Know” video, you’re familiar with Emma and her lively, colorful and camouflaging brush strokes.

Emma is a body painter, photographer and artist –  and she’s as playful and talented as they come, creating cool and contemporary images with paint, photography, wildlife, the beauty of the human form, and sometimes some old-school wallpaper designs.

Emma’s first Hong Kong show will be at The Cat Street Gallery from August 29 to September 22, 2013.

If you’re in town, be sure to make it. Cat Street is one of our favorite galleries, and Emma’s photos are undoubtedly going to thrill in person.

Before the show debuts, here’s our Q&A with the artist and a preview of some of her images.

The NewsWhistle Q&A with Emma Hack:
Name: Emma Hack
Date of Interview: 17th July 2013
Age (if you want to give it up): 40
Birthplace: Adelaide, South Australia
Current town: Adelaide, South Australia
Occupation: Artist

1. What’s the funniest or saddest thing that’s happened to you this week?

I had my face painted for a shoot, the theme ‘turning the tables’ back on local identities.  I haven’t been painted for 20 years and then ran out of petrol on the way home so had to call for help face painted on the side of the road!

2. What’s your favorite movie? And why?

“Great Expectations”  – things are not as they seem, never judge a book by its cover.

3. What’s the biggest risk you took in life?

Creating my first exhibition and calendar – a dream come true that launched my career and promptly put me in debt for 2 years!

Red Bird III

4. If you could go back in time and do one thing over, what would that be?

Nothing – everything happens for a reason and has made me the person I am today, mind you, not that everything has been magnificent judgment, but no regrets…

5. Tell us your favorite joke:

I only remember one, but it’s a bit filthy for this situation.

6. What’s something that most people don’t know about you?

It’s a secret  : )

Wallpaper Owl III

7. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever heard?

My father always said plan your work – work your plan, I try and stand by this as I am tempted to rush into things – the voice of reason!

8. Who’s your favorite celebrity? And why?

I am really not sure – I think they are over-rated!

9. What’s your strangest phobia or superstition?

Fear of heights, I hate a high hotel room or balcony, makes me weak at the knees! 

Tropical Butterflies

10. Last, but not least, is there anything you want to pitch, promote or discuss?

My wonderful solo exhibition at The Cat Street Gallery, [will launch] this August.  I am very excited to be showing a wide range of my best work for the Hong Kong art community!

11. And a bonus curve question . . . What’s the best advice you can give a person who wants to start painting on their friends or loved ones?

Be patient and don’t tickle!  : )

England

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