What inspired you to become an artist, and when did you first realise that you wanted to pursue this career path?
I've always been that kid who used to doodle on everything. Textbooks, desks, walls, everything! So that's why I've always known since I was young that I wanted to pursue a career in art and design.
Tell us a bit more about your style...
I use a mix media combination of gouache, colour pencils and digital programs. But my favourite has to be gouache. I love how thick and opaque the paint is and how it feels on paper. Also, how the images in my head turn out as finished works. I would say my work is colourful, playful and decorative and nature is always my recurring theme that I always try to include in most of my works. I feel that nature represents a sense of peace in our lives and I would like my audience to feel at ease while looking at my works.
Can you walk us through your creative process, from the initial concept to the finished piece?
I usually start by making very rough sketches on my sketchbook and then redefine them on my ipad. After that, I select a few colour choices (on Procreate) and see which one looks best. Once the colour choices have been made, I very lightly draw on watercolour paper and start painting with gouache and make some minor details with pencils or colour pencils. Once all the analogue work is done, I transfer the images to my laptop and either clean or arrange the illustrations up on Photoshop. Then we're done!
What challenges have you faced in your artistic career, and how have you overcome them?
My biggest struggle as a freelance illustrator is self-promotion. I am still learning everyday about how to overcome this hurdle since the industry is always changing. Although, I find that making connections with other illustrators and designers really help. I have learned so much about putting yourself out there. I have learned so much from other illustrators and I have connected with my community and online.
Who are some artists or other creative figures that have influenced your work, and how have they inspired you?
There are too many to name but artists like Gauguin, Matisse and David Hockney have inspired my works so much. I also truly admire illustrator Lisa Congdon. She's an amazing illustrator who shares her knowledge about being a female artist in modern times, she's a true inspiration!
How do you stay motivated and inspired when you hit a creative block or rough patch?
I find stepping away from your work even for a short time helps. I often take walks around my neighbourhood, or visit bookstores and museums to see different kinds of art.
What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting out on their artistic journeys?
My professor once said, "Be nice, it's a small industry." I still take this advice to this day.
What are your goals for your art in the future, and where do you see your career going in the next few years?
I have been enjoying larger size projects so in the next few years, I would like to try more mural art or larger scale prints as well as packaging design.
What's your favourite piece that you sell on Fy! and why?
My favourite on Fy! is "Japanese Spring Part 2". I am based in Tokyo and Japan is absolutely beautiful in the spring time. I think this piece encapsulates Japanese spring in a gorgeous way.
Which other artists on the Fy! platform do you love?
Can you share with us a favourite piece of art from another artist and tell us why you love it?
Little Blooming Art Print by Ploypisut. I think she's great at painting flowers with watercolour, plus she's a lovely person as well!
How do you see your art contributing to the wider cultural conversation, and what message or themes do you hope to convey through your work?
I would like to express messages of lightness and positivity through my work. I would like my audience to feel at ease while looking at my works.
