“Star Buddies Unite” Painting Activity
The inspiration for the “Star Buddies” came from our deep observations while accompanying individuals with Autistic and SEN individuals. Many SEN individuals possess extraordinary artistic talents, yet, these gifts are frequently overlooked by society, sometimes even misunderstood as signs of “aloofness” or “difficulty in communication.” Recognising that many SEN friends may need extra support in making connections and expressing themselves, we wondered: What if we could provide these unique souls with a bigger stage—where their creativity is seen and their stories are heard?
With this in mind, we launched “Star Buddies”, inviting Autistic and SEN individuals participants to design their own “Star Buddy” based on the theme of “The Imaginary Best Friend.”
Star Buddies Painting Campaign is designed to unlock the creativity of Autistic and SEN individuals through a series of stages:
Art Submission
September 1st to October 31st
Participants submit their “Star Buddy” creations, along with a character description.
Judging & Selection
November 1st to November 15th
A panel of experts will evaluate entries based on creativity and emotional expression.
In-Person Exhibit
January to March
Selected works will be displayed in cross-border exhibitions across Guangdong, Hong Kong & Macao for social advocacy.
Walkathon Fundraiser
April
ASD artists will walk hand in hand with the public to support 300 ASD children on their artistic journey.
Participants submit their “Star Buddy” creations, along with a character description.
A panel of experts will evaluate entries based on creativity and emotional expression.
Selected works will be displayed in cross-border exhibitions across Guangdong, Hong Kong & Macao for social advocacy.
ASD artists will walk hand in hand with the public to support 300 ASD children on their artistic journey.
Star Judges (in no particular order)
Ms. Kitty Poon
LoveXpress Foundation Founder
Lau Siu Hong, Freeman
Hong Kong Legend Designer and Artist
Mr. Mak Kwok Keung
Hong Kong Film Awards Art Director
Ms. Shammy Fung Siu Man
An interior soft decoration designer and consultant from Guangzhou
Ms. Liu Cheng Mui
Hong Kong Artist
Ms. Tang Mei Sum
Art designer and children’s illustrator
Event Details
We warmly invite Autistic and SEN individuals from the greater bay area (Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau) to join this creative journey and showcase their voice and talent:
Participants must give their Star Buddy a unique name, describe their personality, and list their favourite trait about their buddy.
The event will select 101 Excellence Awards and 3 Most Popular Grand Prizes (one for each category).
101 represents diverse relationships, highlighting that every SEN individual has their own unique style and story.
It also symbolises the first step in connecting SEN individuals with the world through art — a deeper exploration of life.
Selected artworks will have the chance to become:
- Exhibits in art exhibitions
Participants:
Individuals with Autism/Special Needs aged 6 or above
Age Groups:
Children: 6 – 11 years old
Teens: 12 – 17 years old
Adults: 18 years or above
Submission:
September 1 –
October 31, 2025
How to Participate
This is a free event. Interested participants should note the following guidelines:
Registration Method
- All participants must register via the official online platform.
- Upon successful submission, a confirmation email will be sent.
- Free of charge.
Submission Guidelines
Create your “Star Buddy” inspired by “The Imaginary Best Friend in My Heart.” and include their unique name, description of their personality and your favourite trait about them.
- Submissions accepted as or
- Maximum A3, 2D artwork only
- Any drawing style and materials welcome but must be an original creation (in accordance with design principles)
- Design principles requirements:
- Clear depiction of the head, body, arms, and legs, with a complete structure.
- The character must be presented in full, with a clear view from head to toe.
- Digital illustration accepted, but AI-generated images or artwork using correction fluid/tape will not be accepted
- Physical submissions will not be returned
Submit via Physical Mail
- Artwork must arrive before the deadline. Please ensure sufficient postage to avoid delivery failure.
- Write the participant’s name on the back of the artwork.
- Mailing Address: 12/F, Kelly Commercial Building, 70-74 Morrison Hill Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong ; Mark the envelope with : “LoveXpress – “Star Buddies Painting Campaign”
Submit Online
- Submit files in JPEG or PNG format
- Minimum resolution: 1024 x 1024
- File size: over 2MB
Let the Stars Shine — Support their Imaginative World Through Love Seed Fund
Donate or Sponsor our Love Seed Fund
Every visit to our exhibitions or purchase of creative merchandise helps light up the artistic journey of autistic individuals. We also warmly welcome individuals and corporations to donate or sponsor the Love Seed fund, empowering this initiative through diverse avenues.
Co-organising Institution (Hong Kong)
Co-organising Institution (Guangzhou)
Co-organising Institution
(Macau)
Organising Institution
The submission deadline has passed, and no further entries will be accepted. Thank you to all participants for your enthusiasm and support!