The Australian artist Catherine Jenna Hendry, best known to the world as CJ Hendry, first entered the public consciousness through social media, by sharing her hyperrealistic interpretations of luxury items on Instagram. The ink drawings gained Hendry a following of almost a million, and celebrity collectors of her works include Kanye West, Vera Wang, Floyd Mayweather and Pharrell Williams – an impressive feat for someone without formal training or gallery representation.The New York-based artist has expanded her drawing practice from black and white to colour. But not one to stay confined to a single medium, Hendry has also made waves with her viral plush “flower markets”.Hendry’s “flower market” at Hong Kong’s Central Harbourfront in March. Photo: Eugene LeeShe has also created Juju, a kawaii collectible with floppy ears and a flower for an eye. Running until August 16, Pacific Place is hosting “Juju World”, a fluffy and fun exhibition inspired by the character. Giant Jujus, swings and a chamber filled with 400 plushies await.There’s also a pop-up store selling iridescent Jujus, created exclusively for Pacific Place. In this line, there are nine standard versions and five additional “secret” versions, which come in limited-edition blind boxes. Visitors can also unlock surprise accessories at the Capsule Toy Station and customise their Juju with interchangeable flower eyes, outfits and more.At the launch of “Juju World”, we meet an energetic Hendry for a conversation about art, artificial intelligence and what it takes to make it in the industry today.Describe your routine.I have studios in Hong Kong and New York, so we’re here every other month. In the studio, every day is different. With three children aged between one and five, it’s mostly chaos. We are just piecing it together and there’s a lot we want to create and achieve, and that comes a little bit chaotically sometimes.
From Instagram to Pacific Place: CJ Hendry’s Juju World is a fluffy delight!
The Australian artist talks making attainable art, embracing AI and creating cute characters and free flowers.






