In memory of
Dennis Wong (1971-2024)
Award-winning Post infographics designer
Dennis Wong created visual stories better than words alone could tell. His creations at South China Morning Post, where he worked for nearly a decade as a designer with the infographics team, earned admiration from colleagues and won more than 150 journalism and design awards in Hong Kong and internationally. Dennis died on July 5, 2024, after a year-long battle with cancer. He was 53. Here’s a look at some of the best Post works of Dennis Wong, a self-taught visual storyteller who reached the top in his field.
Dennis’ 150 journalism and design awards
Some of Dennis’ best work
Click on the story below to read
Story links
1. China Tianwen-1 Mars mission ↗2. What is space junk and why is it a problem? ↗
3. Global warming: is time running out? ↗
4. China’s record heatwave, worst drought in decades ↗
5. Child abuse in Hong Kong ↗
6. China’s coal capital is dying as local natural resources are exhausted ↗
7. Visualising Hong Kong’s biggest Covid-19 super-spreader event ↗
8. The connections ↗
9. How a Hong Kong protest evolved into an anti-government movement ↗
10. The new moon race ↗
11. Football legend Pele’s greatest achievements ↗
12. Mighty Dragon: China’s modified J-20 stealth fighter jet ↗
Link to all Dennis’ works ↗
Transition and evolution
Dennis’ interest in art and design began long before his professional career. He had enjoyed drawing since childhood, though he never took any formal art courses. "Most of his skills were self-taught through online learning and research,” Dennis’ wife Kennes said. Throughout his career, Dennis worked in various companies, both small and large. His wife said that although Dennis sometimes underestimated his talents and skills, his competitive spirit and never-give-up attitude always shone through.
Career path
Dennis’ professional journey began after high school when he secured an apprenticeship in colour separation and plate-making at a printing company. As the industry began to shift towards computerisation, Dennis embraced new technologies, learning computer colour separation. This ignited a passion for technology that would define his career. His continuous pursuit of self-education would see him master a diverse array of computer skills, including Photoshop, 3D drawing, computer programming, graphic and web design. They were skills that propelled Dennis’ career as the media industry shifted rapidly from print to digital. It was the world of digital and data journalism where Dennis would make a significant impact.
Legacy and beyond
Dennis’ impact extended beyond his work, with his personality reflected in his interactions and creations. Even after his cancer diagnosis, he remained dedicated to his craft and Post colleagues, continuing to teach newcomers and share his knowledge. This commitment was matched by his kind heart, evident in his work on stories related to children’s welfare and environmental protection. Dennis wasn’t driven by fame, colleagues said. Rather, he would find deep satisfaction in the work itself.
Dennis was known for his humour, often quoting films by the renowned Hong Kong filmmaker and actor Stephen Chow Sing-chi to entertain colleagues. His playful nature, along with his diverse interests spanning sci-fi films to children’s stories, infused his work with creativity and accessibility.
“Dennis Wong’s untimely passing is a significant loss to the Post,” said the Post’s associate creative director Marcelo Duhalde.“His creativity, dedication, and warmth will be deeply missed, but his influence will continue to inspire colleagues and future designers alike.”
Messages from the team
Associate Creative Director Marcelo Duhalde
Story written by Kaliz Lee
Edited by Andrew London
Cover illustration by Victor Sanjinez
Additional illustration by Henry Wong
