HONG KONG — “Market the Cat,” a famous illustrated character from Taiwan, is making his Hong Kong debut at the “Downshifting @ Tai Po – a Stroll with Market the Cat” campaign, organized by shopping mall Tai Wo Plaza to turn the shopping destination into a feline paradise with adorable illustrations.
Clad in a tuxedo, Market the Cat takes visitors on a slow living journey through various happenings in the district, from Tai Yuen Commercial Centre to Fu Shin Shopping Center. Follow in the agile footsteps of the feline ambassador to explore the cat-themed art pieces along the way while taking part in flash activities and a chance to receive limited-edition gifts. The campaign also taps famous Hong Kong photographer Littlered to share tips for photographing pets.
“Hanami Steps” installation capturing blossoms of Tai Po in Four Seasons
A-Meow, Market the Cat’s creator, is known for her tender brushstrokes that bring the daily life of Market the Cat to life. For the campaign, the famous Taiwanese illustrator captures the attractions of Tai Po and the quotidian life of the neighbourhood in a floral setting full of native blossoms through the seasons, inviting urban dwellers to slow down and enjoy the company of furry friends in a magical feline universe.
At the exit of Tai Wo Railway Station, the playful Market the Cat will usher you onto the “Peekaboo Path” for a hide-and-seek game. Follow the paws to the “Hanami Steps” in the west wing of Tai Wo Plaza, where a 20-meter-long mural painting depicts the blossoms of Tai Po in four different seasons. The blooming scenes along both sides of the stairs are punctuated with depictions of Market the Cat and other adorable kittens. Up on the ceiling, a 3D “Big Fat Cat” emanates the cozy vibe of slow living as he lies in a bed of flowers enjoying the multi-colored sunlight coming through the curved sunroof.
The journey continues in the east wing of Tai Wo Plaza where the thematic scenography unfolds: the “Meow Fish Stall” meets the eyes with the lively scene of feline fishmongers surrounded by customers. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Railway Museum comes to life in another photogenic scene at Tai Wo Plaza, where fluffy friends are invited to take pictures with their owners and Market the Cat. Don’t forget to bring along a pet carrier to keep your cutie pie cozy and safe when you visit Tai Wo Plaza. There is also the “Market the Cat Pop-up Gallery” for fans to soak up the artistic vibe of the illustrator’s pastel-coloured world.
Best vistas in Tai Po, plus pet photo tips from famous photographer Littlered
With dedicated selfie spots for furry friends featured in all thematic scenes, the pet-friendly campaign also encourages owners and pets to take a walk among Tai Po’s outdoor attractions, including the Lam Tsuen River. Some of the neighbourhood’s hidden gems were framed during Market the Cat’s trip to Tai Po by Littlered. The famous local photographer also revealed his secrets to perfect pet photography: capture the spontaneity of pets at their eye level with the help of autofocus to capture them in action, or half-press the shutter to lock the focus, and use a bounce flash to create soft, flattering light. Alternatively, you can let experts handle the task at the ‘Pet Photo Booth’, where professional photographers will capture your happy moments with your pet if you spend at Tai Wo Plaza on designated dates.
Fancy a hearty meal with your fluffy friend? Market the Cat has hand-picked a list of pet-friendly outlets for owners and pets to enjoy a slice of slow living. Check out Toyama and Piglet Café at the rooftop food court of Tai Yuen Commercial Centre, as well as the semi-al fresco Fragrant Leaf Bay in Tai Wo Plaza. The trip to Tai Po would not be complete without a stroll through Market the Cat’s favourite fresh market. Don’t miss out on the great variety of fresh ingredients and groceries at Tai Yuen Fresh Market, alongside a stellar line-up of eateries, including the Goldy Café, which is run by an ex-executive chef of a five-star hotel and has a pleasant sun-lit environment thanks to the glass façade.
Hipster-friendly green market
What’s more, Tai Wo Plaza will organize a green market between July 15 and 31 featuring a plethora of green goodies, including organic food, handicrafts and other knick-knacks. “Market the Cat” unique designed phone wallpapers will also be available to download by simply scanning the QR code from in-mall promotion material. Celebrate the slow living culture of Tai Po with the illustrated Tai Po Walk multi-purpose bag and Garden Walk umbrella, available at Tai Wo Plaza (multipurpose bag and umbrella) and Fu Shin Shopping Centre (multi-purpose bag) from July 4-Aug. 31 by redeeming receipts after spending a designated amount and registering for Link membership.
Terms and conditions apply. The program is subject to change without prior notice. For more details about the event, please visit Linkhk.com.
