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Nestled in Tuen Mun, Sam Shing has long been cherished for its vibrant seafood scene and rich cultural heritage. Now, a series of stunning new murals commissioned by Link’s Sam Shing Commercial Centre are breathing fresh energy into the district. Created by acclaimed local illustrator Messy Desk (Jane Lee) in collaboration with teachers and students from the Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), these large-scale artworks are a visual celebration of Sam Shing’s distinctive history and identity.
Spanning 13 metres in length and 4.5 metres in height, Messy Desk’s mural vividly encapsulates the essence of Sam Shing. With her signature bold colours and whimsical details, she brings the area’s defining sights to life: leisure strollers along Castle Peak Bay Waterfront Promenade, bustling fishing boats, aromatic cooked food stalls and the revered Sam Shing Temple. Together, these elements form a dynamic narrative of this waterfront community's enduring spirit.
“The mural intertwines Sam Shing’s cultural heritage with my artistic style, creating a fusion of tradition and modernity,” Messy Desk explains. “I wanted to invite both locals and visitors to pause, look closer and discover the rich history behind this unique neighbourhood.”
Beyond its visual appeal, the mural serves a deeper purpose – infusing the community with warmth and positivity. “I’ve therefore included playful characters and intricate details to evoke a sense of joy,” she shares.
In addition to Messy Desk’s artistic vision, Link invited faculty and students from HKDI to contribute to the project. Inspired by Sam Shing’s characteristic elements – its seafood culture, vibrant fishing boats and hidden local treasures – the teams crafted additional murals that enrich the neighbourhood’s visual landscape.
HKDI Programme Leader Ken Wong highlights the significance of this collaboration, noting that it provided students with an invaluable opportunity to apply their learning in a real-world setting. “This project allowed our students to immerse themselves in Sam Shing’s cultural heritage and translate their insights into large-scale artistic creations,” he explains. “Having Messy Desk – one of our most distinguished graduates – lead the initiative was especially inspiring for them. They were thrilled to work alongside such an accomplished alumna and learn from her expertise,” says Ken.
For student Emma Chiu, the experience was both a challenge and a transformative learning journey. “Designing murals of this scale required us to think about both the broader composition and intricate details, ensuring they remained visually compelling from every angle,” she shares. “Messy Desk’s guidance was invaluable – she shared insights and techniques we would not have learnt in a classroom.”
Messy Desk, in turn, found the collaboration equally enriching. “Working with such energetic and creative young minds made the entire process incredibly fun and inspiring,” she says.
The completed murals have transformed Sam Shing, infusing the neighbourhood with vibrant artistry that enriches daily life for residents while attracting visitors eager to capture its beauty. More than just a visual enhancement, the murals serve as a bridge between past and present. “Their greatest value lies in integrating artistic expression with the existing environment,” says Ken. “Through these murals, Sam Shing’s history and culture unfold organically, revealing lesser-known stories for all to discover.”
For Emma, the project has been particularly meaningful. “What were once unremarkable white walls are now alive with illustrations that depict scenes so familiar to the community,” she reflects. “It’s a striking transformation – one that not only catches the eye but also offers a renewed appreciation for Sam Shing’s cultural essence. This project beautifully conveys the district’s stories, fostering a deeper connection between people and community.”
Messy Desk shares her gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to this artistic revitalisation. “I’m incredibly thankful to Link for making this project possible. Creating murals in Sam Shing that invite people to pause and engage with their surroundings has been a rewarding experience. As artists, we always hope our work reaches a wider audience. I look forward to more opportunities like this – where art serves as a bridge, strengthening connections within communities.”
