The Pink Bear Goes East

In 2013, LUAP’s iconic Pink Bear took his first big international leap — all the way to Hong Kong. Invited to be part of the Hong Kong Contemporary Art Fair, the bear didn’t just appear on the walls through LUAP’s paintings and prints — he arrived in person, too.

From the moment he stepped out in public, the reaction was overwhelming. Unlike in the UK, where he’s often met with quiet curiosity or the occasional sideways glance, in Hong Kong the Pink Bear was greeted like a rock star. Crowds gathered. People waved. Children laughed and ran up for photos. At times the reception was so intense, the Bear had to make a quick escape just to catch his breath.

The public performances took place alongside a selection of LUAP’s works on canvas — including pieces from The Heroes Journey and Bright Pink Floral Scent. The visual juxtaposition of this bold, surreal figure against Hong Kong’s hyper-modern cityscape created a compelling contrast that captivated passers-by and art fair visitors alike.

At one point, the Pink Bear could be seen resting on a quiet bench, hiding from the buzz — an unexpectedly tender moment amid the chaos. It’s this balance between spectacle and solitude that continues to define LUAP’s work and the Bear’s narrative.

This trip helped cement the Pink Bear’s position not just as a character, but as a symbol — of joy, playfulness, and quiet reflection in noisy, fast-moving environments. It also opened new doors for LUAP, marking the beginning of the Bear’s travels around the globe.

Hong Kong wasn’t just a stop on the Bear’s journey — it was a launchpad.