Our series of online people profiles covers a wide range of backgrounds, careers and personalities of individuals in Hong Kong. In this instalment, we chat with Laura Pezza, founder of The Quiet Place Art, and find out how she balances work life with her artistic pursuits in Hong Kong – and how the mellow surrounds of Mui Wo help her do that!
Tell us a bit about your background; where are you from, where did you grow up, and is Hong Kong “home” for you?
I grew up in Italy and lived in Seattle, Berlin and Dublin before moving to Hong Kong three years ago. All of these places feel like home to me, but Hong Kong is still by far my favourite city. I don’t think I’ll ever find another place with the same easy access to mountains and beaches.
What do you do here? Tell us about your business.
I work in an IT software company as the lead of a team of project managers. I also run my own art business (The Quiet Place Art) where I create and sell my artworks (prints and originals). This is more of a passion project that has turned into a side hustle! It’s been a challenge to balance the two, but also quite fun. You’re welcome to check out my art pieces on my Instagram page (@thequietplaceart) or on my website, thequietplaceart.com. I’ve made a number of pieces inspired by Hong Kong, like the Hong Kong skyline and the Big Buddha!
How have you found HK as a place to work and to create art?
I’m extremely lucky that my company has flexible working hours, meaning that I don’t work crazy hours and I usually have enough free time to focus on my hobbies. I know this isn’t true for a lot of my friends who work long hours and get a lot of stress from the workplaces.
On the art side, I’ve witnessed a big change since arriving here. I’m seeing a growing interest from the Hong Kong community into art, a lot of art events, initiatives and groups like the Hong Kong Arts Collective, which I’m part of.
Give us an insight into a typical day for you.
I’ve been working from home since the fifth wave started. I’m an early bird, so after waking up, I’ll journal (the so-called “morning pages”!) and read. I normally go for a quick run over lunch time and work until 5pm or so. Once I’m done with work, I’ll either do some art or go on a “podcast walk” – an easy hike or walk by the beach where I listen to my favourite podcasts (“Not Overthinking” by Ali & Tamur Abdaal or “On Purpose” by Jay Shetty). After a hearty dinner, I’ll normally relax by cooking and watching a series.
What neighbourhood do you currently live in, and why did you choose it?
I currently live in Mui Wo. I decided to move here to be even closer to nature and get away from the stress of the city.
What are three things you like about your neighbourhood?
The sense of community, and the hikes and the beaches at my doorstep!
Describe your home to us.
I’m currently living in a beautiful village house, right in front of the beach. It feels really zen. It’s got a veranda, a garden, lots of flowers and a fountain… It’s a true paradise only 30 minutes away from the bustling city!
Outside of work, what are your hobbies in Hong Kong?
Besides art, I’m really into fitness, and playing board games with friends.
Quick questions about Hong Kong: what is your favourite …
Casual restaurant? Fiata in Central. Best pizza in town, approved by all Italians!
Date night restaurant? Pica Pica in Sheung Wan
Bar? The Aftermath
Local food? Wah Kee Restaurant for seafood in Mui Wo
Thing to do with visitors? A tour of the local villages around Mui Wo or a night hike to the Peak!
Thing to do with kids? The Zoological Gardens or Disneyland
Nearby holiday destination? Ishigaki in Japan was such a pleasant surprise!
See more of Laura’s artwork on Instagram @thequietplaceart and the Hong Kong Arts Collective.
Like this? See more in our Living in Hong Kong section!
