Artist Alley Kicks Off at Sold-Out Hoyo Fest Convention

It was shaping up to be a dream weekend for full-time crochet artist Sherry Mak.

- Calista Wong

Just as she had in years past, the gaming fan, who is in her late 30s, was attending the three-day Hoyo Fest Singapore, an annual event organised by industry giant Hoyoverse.

But this year's edition was different: She was among 38 artists granted a spot at the Artist Alley, where creators could sell their fan-made merchandise, sanctioned by Hoyoverse.

It was a first in five editions of the event and deviated from the industry norm, as large media franchises are typically protective of their intellectual property.

The air at Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre, where Hoyo Fest Singapore was held, buzzed with excitement on July 26 as fans gathered to celebrate their shared love for Hoyoverse's sprawling universes.

Eventgoers were greeted by snaking queues, cosplayers and merchandise booths, each vying for attention at every corner.

Over 6,000 tickets for the convention, which ran from July 25 to 27, were all sold out on its opening day.