Young artists hope their huge circle painting can set a world record

The circle may be unbroken but about 500 local children are hoping they broke a Guinness world record.

Last Saturday, as part of the Sino Group's Art In Hong Kong initiative, the Centre for Community Cultural Development was invited to take part in a fun artistic exercise at the Tuen Mun Town Plaza mall. Under the guidance of American-Vietnamese artist Hiep Nguyen, underprivileged primary and secondary school students from Sham Shui Po, Tin Shui Wai and Kwun Tong created a huge 3,000 sq ft painting in an attempt to set a world record for painting with the most circles. Apparently Nguyen created the idea of 'circle painting' as a simple, empowering community initiative that anyone can participate in. The result also makes a wonderfully decorative design.

'Circle painting aims to encourage more people to participate and share the fun of massive artistic creation,' Nguyen said. 'Art is a way to bring people from all walks of life together, communicating and building mutual trust through the process. Hopefully we'll break the Guinness world record for the most number of circles painted.'

Since no Guinness official was present, they will have to await a decision after submitting the evidence. Meanwhile, the artist will remain in town and present a two-day art training workshop for teachers, social workers and other artists. The large canvas of painted circles will remain on display at the mall until March 2.