In response to the aftermath of the2019 Hong Kong protests, Valerie Ho Oi Ying employed the craft of jewelry to articulate the impact of seemingly modest forces. By exploring language and visuals linked to political events, her creations function as intricately arranged, diminutive forces, contributing to a collective memory. Currently, the focus is directed towards a non-verbal resistance system, comprising buttons, stickers, and more, strategically designed with accessible mediums, formats, and price points for the general public. This approach adeptly navigates the constraints of the National Security Law.

Valerie steadfastly believes in theunderestimated power of wearable objects, using accessible mediums to empower individuals and facilitate navigation through imposed restrictions and suppression. The overarching goal of her work is to exemplify the potential of living with integrity, truth, and resistance amid the present circumstances in Hong Kong.

" Venice Design Week and HOOROON are pleased to present the award "I DON’T SHINE, I have something to say" to the artist Valerie HO OI YING for the political commitment and social denunciation that the jewel "Political Button, Who is afraid of Winnie the Pooh" transmits. The brooch becomes an act of resistance able to escape censorship and guarantee the freedom of expression to the wearer. We recognize the artist’s commitment and ability to make contemporary jewelry a powerful tool to guarantee the fundamental rights of the individual. For these reasons, the brooch will be included in the international exhibition I DON’T SHINE, I have something to say that will be held during the Venice Design Week 2024. "