Hong Kong has lost a creative giant, with the legendary creator of the Old Master Q Comics, Alfonso Wong, sadly passing away on New Year's Day at the age of 93.
Better known by his pen name Wong Chak, the late cartoonist was born in Tianjin before immigrating to Hong Kong in 1956. Old Master Q made his first appearance in newspaper comic strips in the 1960s and immediately found popularity with the masses. Its uniquely humorous tone, straightforward text and thick but lovable characters won over people's hearts and became a quintessential part of local culture.
One of the most recongisable and beloved fictional characters in Hong Kong history, Old Master Q and other popular characters in the comics were able to find audiences across generations. Wong eventually retired in 1995 and the comic book franchise was taken over by his son, Joseph Wong Chak (using the same pen name).
Celebrating the life work of Wong and his son, Wan Chai's Comix Home Base is currently hosting an exhibition showcasing works surrounding Old Master Q. Paying tribute to the legendary cartoonist, the venue is providing free entry for all lovers of Old Master Q to the exhibition between January 4 (10am-10pm) and January 5 (10am-1pm). Take a trip down memory lane and revisit Wong's amazing and hilarious creations over the years.
Thanks for the memories, Wong Chak!