Alex Croft - Graham Street

Alex Croft's Mural in Graham Street, Central

Artist Alex Croft, from the UK, is most famous for his street art in Hong Kong, notably, the Kowloon Walled City painting on Graham Street. He was immersed in creativity from a young age due to his father being an art teacher and his upbringing between the Middle East and Hong Kong. In his formal studies, Croft pursued an illustration foundation degree in the UK, where his professors led him to earn his bachelor's degree in photography. His pursuits in both of these subjects sparked an interest in merging the two together, ultimately inspiring him to begin his journey in street art. 

Upon returning to Hong Kong, he quickly began finding opportunities to share his street artwork around the city. Croft’s curious nature led him to explore the architecture, local lifestyles, and stories deeply rooted in Hong Kong’s culture. What makes the city’s landscape so fascinating and unique, is the contrast between the modern skyscrapers towering over the traditional markets along with the older, duller buildings. As modernity continuously develops across the world, it is crucial to recognize the history rooted in each culture. This is exactly what Croft did. 

Douglas Young, the owner of the boutique, G.O.D. (Goods of Desire), in Hong Kong, discovered Croft’s talent in art through another mural in the city and hired him to create the iconic Graham Street mural across from Young’s shop. This painting was quickly recognized for its ability to transform a dull wall into a vibrant mural inspired by the Kowloon Walled City, also known as  “the city of darkness”. Croft not only painted this fascinating artwork, but also shed light on a historical event that not many people know of: the destruction of the walled city in 1994 in preparation for the British handover of Hong Kong to China in 1997. What made this city stand out, is that it belonged to neither Britain, China, nor Hong Kong. As a result, this community had no constitution, making it overcrowded, unsanitary, and dangerous. Because of all of these hazards, the people were either resettled or were given financial compensation. Despite the walled city being given the name “the city of darkness,” Croft used vibrant colours to portray this metropolis, because it was also known to have a vibrant culture. Although hundreds of thousands of people being crammed into a condensed area had its downsides, it created a unique culture with its own traditions, local businesses and festivals. Alex Croft was able to show tight community through his choice in colour and brightness.

Although he completed this piece in 2013, to this day, it remains a popular Instagram site that attracts tourists who take hundreds of photos against this colourful wall. Outside of the artistic perspective, he appreciates the diverse aspects of city life. As he said in an interview with Page Hotel, “Each corner holds a piece of the city’s character, and it’s fascinating to uncover those layers…It’s about connecting with the soul of the city and celebrating the everyday lives of its residents.” His appreciation for culture and creativity brought him to where he is today.

Many people enjoy taking photos against this "instagram wall."

In addition to these murals that Croft has painted, he is now the co-founder of ANB Art, which provides services for both interior and exterior art. Although he remains permanently based in Hong Kong, he states that America is at the top of his bucket list due to the diverse cultures and landscapes, followed by Easter Island, Morocco, and Egypt. As he continues to pursue his passion for art and travelling, perhaps he will contribute to other blank canvases with his colourful and geometric designs.