Character on Canvas
In this Kid's Art Exhibition showcases the creative expressions of young artists, drawing inspiration from the renowned Japanese artist Yoshimoto Nara. This exhibition features vibrant and imaginative works where children explore the themes of "Cat," "Zodiac," and "Anime." Each piece reflects the influence of Nara's unique style, blending innocence with a touch of rebellion, and capturing the essence of childhood through bold lines and expressive characters. Visitors will be delighted by the originality and depth in these artworks, where the playful worlds of cats, zodiac signs, and anime come to life on canvas.
Matai Nakatsuji
10 years old
Cat Man in Japan
In the bustling city of Tokyo, a teenage boy who was half human, half cat, lived alone in a small apartment. One serene night, he ventured out for a walk, finding solace beneath the starlit sky. As he gazed up at the stars and the majestic silhouette of Mt. Fuji in the distance, the soft outline of a cherry blossom tree rested beside him, its delicate petals swaying gently in the night breeze.
Olivia Lin
10 years old
Hime-Sama (姫様)
Princess Bibi strode along the forest with her attendants beneath the beautiful night, full of shooting stars and with a bright full moon above. But they seemed to be worried about something. Their worried faces darted left to right scanning through the forest as if they were looking for something. It was getting dark, and mosquitos were buzzing around them. But they couldn’t stop now. They had to find the princess’s kittens before the prince gets back from his journey! After another 10 minutes of searching, the attendants started convincing the princess to return to the palace. They told the princess that the king would be worried that they have been gone for over an hour! This struck the princess. At last, they decided to return to the palace, but as they walked sorrowfully back to the palace, they heard a sudden, quiet meow…. At last! The princess found her kittens, James, Sophia and Emily. One of the princess’s attendants took a picture, and that was what formed the painting, Hime-Sama. Hime-Sama (meaning "princess" in Japanese).
Yulah Kim
9.5 years old
Nightmare's Dream
Nightmare is a determined and curious girl with a passion for volleyball. Her dream is to become a famous volleyball player, and she dedicates herself to practice every day. Despite the exhaustion that comes with her intense training, she refuses to give up, pushing through fatigue to improve her skills. Her relentless drive and love for the sport fuel her ambition, making her more resilient with each challenge she faces. Though the journey is tough, her determination to achieve her dream keeps her focused and motivated, proving that she’s willing to give it her all to succeed.
Sloka
13 years old
Pisces on a Canvas
It is inspired by the Zodiac sign of Pisces and tries to re-imagine this iconic zodiac sign as a playful mermaid. In this painting the mermaid is given a pencil that sits on her ear to symbolize my own love for art. The fish in the painting resemble the 2 fish seen in the Pisces Zodiac. The two fish are white because they symbolize a canvas further giving more depth to the theme of art and also acting as a border for the mermaid.The white color contrasts with the color of the mermaid causing the mermaid to be emphasized. There are only 2 plants in this painting, one near the top and the other near the bottom which looks quite similar to the Pisces Zodiac that I was inspired by.
Ryder Chiang
9 years old
Diving Cat
"Diving Cat" is a whimsical art piece featuring a ginger cat donning a playful shark suit as it leaps into an imagined ocean. The vibrant orange of the cat’s fur peeks through the blue-grey tones of the shark costume, creating a fun contrast. The piece captures the cat jump out the water while diving, blending its natural feline grace with a touch of humor as it mimics a shark’s sleek movement. With curious eyes and a hint of mischief, the cat appears ready for an underwater adventure. This lively artwork merges fantasy and fun, celebrating the cat’s playful nature in an unexpected way.
Anita Zhang
13 years old
I Want to Keep Dreaming...
This art piece displays Slack’s most favourite things in his own boundless Dream World; he is able to transport himself to this place whenever he falls asleep granting them access to endless possibilities of his imagination. Slack is a black furred Exotic Shorthair cat as his design depicts those distinctive features such as slightly rounded cat ears, a long rounded cat tail, big circular eyes and a roundish face shape expressed by his short hairstyle. Beforehand, I had already done my research on Exotic Shorthair cats for an information report in school, therefore, I’m very familiar with how they act and their overall behaviour which is why I chose this particular animal for my art project. Exotic Shorthair cats tend to be lazy and unenergetic; the personality my character is based off (that is why his Dream World has multiple colourful beds wandering around along with duplicates of his favourite cat plushie, In context, Slack is the most realistic looking character in the middle who is coloured in black & white; he is coloured differently to stand out and to show that he is the only being in the ‘Dream World’ that exists in reality (he isn’t actually black & white in the real world). The other character that looks similar to Slack except for its colourful design is a chibi version of him that only appears in his Dream World. Chibi Slack only exists because Slack loves themself too. (Artwork idea inspired by the Indie video game, Omori.)
Mina Zhang
11 years old
A World with Faded Colour
In a world of many dimensions, each filled with unique life and wonders, there lived a 10-year-old girl named Flora from a bright, colorful dimension. She was an orphan who loved reading books about geography and history. One day, as she was absorbed in a book, a loud scream echoed from outside. When she looked up, she saw the world falling apart, crumbling before her eyes. Terrified, she ran and hid, closing her eyes tightly. When the chaos stopped, Flora opened them to find everything seemingly back to normal—except the colors had faded from the world, leaving her as the only one still vibrant. Confused and alone, she returned home, only to find no one around. As she read her book, the stories magically came to life, but unaware of what was happening, she soon drifted off to sleep.
Phoebe Zhang
7 years old
The Capricorn Mermaid
"The Capricorn Mermaid" is an enchanting night scene that fuses the Zodiac sign Capricorn with a sense of mystical serenity. A girl with flowing teal hair sits elegantly on the edge of a water fountain, her mermaid tail resting in the tranquil waters. The night sky above sparkles with stars, hinting at the Capricorn constellation. The fountain glows softly in the moonlight, casting shimmering reflections on the wet floor. Her teal hair and ethereal presence add a dreamlike quality, while subtle symbols of Capricorn, such as horns or fish scales, subtly adorn the fountain, creating a balance between earth and water, reality and fantasy.
Monica Hsiao
13 years old
My Cat as a Fairy
This painting is based off my pet cat Pepsi. I have tried to capture her essence in my artwork by giving her a carefree but rebellious personality, as she is in real life. Her wings are painted to be slightly transparent and bug-like, and the flowers underneath her are meant to make her body smaller and more fairy-sized, as well as her hat and dress (both made out of a flower). Her black skin mimics her black fur, and her short hair resembles her short but thick fur.
Cathryn Li
9 years old
Aquarius
This artwork"Aquarius," inspired by the zodiac sign, captures the celestial essence of the water bearer. The girl’s blond hair symbolizes the white and yellow hues of stars, connecting her to the heavens. Adorned with pearl jewelry, she embodies a mermaid princess, a nod to the aquatic nature of Aquarius. The mermaid motif highlights the fluidity and mystique of water, making this piece a harmonious blend of astrology and oceanic beauty.
Charlotte Li
5 years old
Fairy
"Fairy" is a captivating painting inspired by the grace of a Ginger cat, blending the ethereal with the cosmic. The central figure, a delicate fairy with feline features, appears to be in flight through a vibrant galaxy. Her white fur glows softly, harmonizing with the swirling nebulae and stardust that surround her. The galaxy’s rich hues of purple and blues create a dreamy backdrop, while the fairy’s serene expression and outstretched wings convey a sense of freedom and wonder as she drifts weightlessly through the stars.
Luca Li
8 years old
Ramy
The artwork ‘Ramy' inspired by the zodiac sign Aries, "Ramy" transforms the fiery spirit of the Ram into a determined badminton player competing for the championship cup. The character embodies the strength and energy of Aries, with the name "Ramy" adding a playful and endearing touch to this powerful figure. Through this piece, the competitive nature of Aries is brought to life with a fun and dynamic twist.
Emmy Meryl Ting-Tsui
8 years old
Aries Girl
The girl is a young representation of the artist. She is kind but shy, and loves to be in beautiful surroundings. Here she is depicted in a vast green valley picking wildflowers with a Swiss mountain backdrop. She loves to sing and has a creative touch. The girl is wearing a traditional dress and may sing a yodel or two. She also enjoys movement and being active. Freely frolicking in the hills is one of her favourite past times.
Madeline Aloua
9 years old
Happy Uliana
Beneath the shimmering surface, where sunlight dances through rippling waves, Uliana glides effortlessly, exploring her underwater world with grace. The vibrant coral reef is her playground, where she finds endless joy in playing with her friends, weaving between colorful sea anemones and schools of fish. In this serene, hidden realm, the soft echo of waves creates a soothing melody that only she can hear—a secret song of the ocean, far removed from the bustling world above. Here, in the depths, time slows, and peace reigns, as Uliana embraces the beauty and mystery of her tranquil aquatic home.
Ivan Luo
9.5 years old
Crab Football
Once upon a time, there was a zodiac named Griddy, a spirited footballer with striking green eyes and a stature of just one meter. Griddy’s love for football was unmatched, and his record on the field remained undefeated. At the tender age of 10, he left spectators in awe with a breathtaking bicycle kick that secured a goal. Griddy's journey with Crab Football FC began when he was just 1.5 years old, marking the start of an extraordinary career filled with passion and triumph.
Isabel Song
9 years old
Background
"Background" is a captivating artwork inspired by a graceful white cat painting an apple. The scene unfolds with the cat delicately focusing on the apple, capturing its vibrant essence on canvas. She sits peacefully on the grass, surrounded by the beauty of nature, which gradually becomes her muse. As she completes the apple, the cat turns her attention to the background, letting the lush greens, soft breeze, and serene surroundings influence her strokes. The painting reflects the harmony between subject and environment, illustrating how inspiration can flow from the simplest moments of connection with nature.
Jamie Zhang
8 years old
Little C
This artwork brings the Zodiac sign Cancer to life as a graceful human figure standing serenely beneath the sea. Adorned with a shimmering shell. the character exudes the nurturing and protective essence of Cancer. Surrounding them are enchanting sea creatures: a gentle jellyfish with its soft, bioluminescent glow, a wise sea turtle gliding calmly, a playful penguin exploring the depths, and a majestic whale gliding in the distance. The scene captures a harmonious underwater world, with the character at its heart, embodying Cancer’s deep emotional connection and protective spirit amidst the beauty of the ocean's wonders.
Owen Hsu
8 years old
Magnet
Magnet is an electrifying piece inspired by the iconic anime Gundam. This artwork captures the essence of magnetic forces and the allure of futuristic technology. Drawing from the sleek, mechanical designs of Gundam, the artist blends vibrant colors with sharp, dynamic lines to evoke a sense of movement and power. The magnet symbolizes the attraction between opposites, reflecting themes of conflict and unity. Through this piece, the artist explores the relationship between human emotion and technological advancement, inviting viewers to consider the magnetic pull of progress and the delicate balance between creation and destruction.
Longjia Li
10 years old
Inside Out
This artwork is a dynamic fusion inspired by iconic anime series, blending elements from "My Hero Academia," "One Punch Man," "Dragon Ball," "Naruto," "Jujutsu Kaisen," "One Piece," and "Demon Slayer." The central character features the sleek costume style of One Punch Man, combined with the vibrant power aura from Dragon Ball. They enjoy a bowl of ramen, nodding to Naruto’s favorite dish, while their brows reflect the intense expressions seen in Demon Slayer. The character’s stance and energy pulses with the fierce spirit of Jujutsu Kaisen and the adventurous flair of One Piece. This piece celebrates the rich diversity of anime through a single, electrifying creation.
Claire Huang
6 years old
The Kitty Cat Girl
This artwork captures Hello Kitty as a sweet little girl, excitedly carrying a freshly baked cake to the dinner table. Clad on the ear with her iconic bow, she carefully balances the cake on a tray, her face beaming with pride. The kitchen scene is cozy and inviting, with warm, pastel tones and playful kitchen accessories enhancing the atmosphere. The cake, adorned with colorful frosting and sprinkles, is the centerpiece of this heartwarming moment. As Hello Kitty heads toward the dinner table, her joyful anticipation and the lovingly prepared cake create a delightful depiction of homey celebration and simple pleasures.
Winston Huang
8 years old
The Secret Pikachu Boy
This artwork imagines Pikachu as an mystery little boy enjoying a relaxing morning on the beach. Bathed in the golden glow of a beautiful sunrise, Pikachu was walking comfortably on the sand, holding a refreshing bubble tea in his tiny hands. His bright, cheerful expression mirrors the joy of a perfect beach day, with the gentle waves and vibrant sunlight creating a serene backdrop. The scene is filled with warmth and tranquility, capturing a moment of pure bliss as Pikachu savors his morning tea time. The artwork combines the playful charm of Pokémon with a delightful slice-of-life beach experience.
Naomi Meng
6 years old
Twinsie
This artwork explores the essence of the Zodiac sign Gemini through a striking depiction of a girl named Naomi. The painting is divided into two distinct halves, each showcasing a different color scheme to represent Gemini's dual nature. On one side, vibrant, warm colour reflect energy and extroversion, capturing Naomi's lively and dynamic persona. The other half features cooler, more muted tones, symbolizing introspection and calm. Naomi's posture and expression subtly blend the contrasting styles, embodying Gemini's complexity and versatility. This duality in the artwork beautifully illustrates the balance between opposing traits, celebrating the multifaceted nature of Gemini.
Kelly Ng
5 years old
Drawing Girl
This artwork beautifully combines the elegance of a white cat with the charm of a blonde-haired girl who is an artist at heart. The scene captures the girl immersed in her painting at home, her golden hair cascading around her as she works on a vibrant canvas. The cozy, artistic space is filled with warmth and creativity, reflecting the girl’s passion for her drawing The harmonious blend of the cat’s serene presence and the girl’s artistic fervor creates a heartwarming portrayal of artistic inspiration and domestic bliss.
Karissa Chang
11 years old
Sisters
This artwork captures the essence of the Zodiac sign Gemini through a whimsical depiction of twin sisters enjoying a magical girls' night in a forest. The golden rose represent the beauty of the twins. The scene is set on a winding forest road, illuminated by the ethereal glow of a beautiful aurora and a dazzling galaxy above. The twins, dressed in flowing, enchanting outfits, are captured in a moment of joy and camaraderie, their laughter and shared secrets echoing the duality and connection inherent in Gemini. The Gemini sign sparkles prominently in the night sky, tying the scene together and highlighting the mystical, celestial quality of their magical evening.
Vincent Chang
8 years old
KICK!!
This artwork embodies the Zodiac sign Cancer through a captivating scene of a Cancer boy strolling along the beach on a beautiful afternoon. The sunset casts a warm, golden hue that mirrors the soft, iridescent color of Cancer’s shell, creating a harmonious and serene atmosphere. As the boy walks along the shore, he playfully kicks rocks, with the word “KICK” artistically incorporated into the composition. The dynamic action contrasts with the tranquil backdrop, capturing a moment of carefree joy and youthful exuberance. The scene beautifully blends the peaceful beauty of the beach with the lively spirit of Cancer, reflecting both calm and energy.
Vivian Chan
6 years old
Shimmering in the Sun
This artwork is inspired by the enchanting world of "The Little Mermaid," featuring a beautiful mermaid sitting gracefully on a sunlit beach. Her flowing, tail shimmers in the golden light, while her long hair cascades around her like sea waves. As she sings a melodious tune, her voice seems to blend with the gentle sound of the waves lapping against the shore. The beach scene is bathed in a warm, tranquil glow, capturing the serene beauty of this magical moment. The artwork captures the mermaid’s captivating charm and the timeless allure of her song, evoking a sense of dreamy escapism and wonder.
Manson Wang
5 years old
Lava Man
This artwork draws inspiration from the Marvel superhero series, depicting a powerful lava man heroically using his abilities to save lives. With molten lava flowing through his veins, his fiery form glows with intense heat and strength. The scene captures him in a dramatic moment, using his elemental power to shield people from a catastrophic event. His powerful stance and determined expression reflect his unwavering commitment to protecting others. The backdrop features a chaotic scene transformed into a dynamic contrast of flames and resilience, highlighting the lava man's heroic actions and the extraordinary scope of his superhuman capabilities.
Nathan Birt
6 years old
The Detective
This artwork depicts a resourceful ginger cat as a detective, working alongside his trusty pet Zac in a bustling backyard. The ginger cat, outfitted in a classic detective hat and trench coat, meticulously examines clues scattered around the garden. Zac, the loyal sidekick, provides playful assistance by sniffing around and interacting with various objects. TThe contrast between the detective’s serious demeanor and Zac’s playful antics adds a delightful dynamic to their investigation, showcasing their teamwork and charm in solving the backyard mystery.
Oliver Liu
5 years old
Shehulk
This artwork reimagines the iconic Marvel superhero Hulk as a powerful female character, embodying strength and determination. With her muscular physique and vibrant green skin, she stands heroically amidst a scene of chaos, channeling her incredible superpower to protect and save the world. Her fierce expression and dynamic pose showcase her immense strength as she effortlessly tackles obstacles and defends against threats. The background features a dramatic, action-packed landscape, highlighting the scale of her heroic efforts. This depiction not only celebrates her formidable abilities but also introduces a fresh perspective on the beloved character, emphasizing her role as a fearless guardian of justice.
Brooklyn Tsang
7 years old
Pisces Mermaids
This artwork beautifully captures the essence of the Zodiac sign Pisces through the playful depiction of twin mermaids. Representing the dual nature of Pisces, the twins are shown joyfully swimming together in a vibrant underwater world. Their shimmering tails and flowing hair ripple as they frolic amidst colorful fish, creating a scene of harmony and fun. The mermaids’ synchronized movements and shared laughter reflect the deep emotional connection and unity associated with Pisces. Surrounded by a swirl of marine life and coral, the scene exudes a sense of playful enchantment, celebrating the twins’ boundless joy and the whimsical charm of their aquatic realm.