What’s your creative medium?
Digital and Traditional Art
Tell us how you started your business / creative venture?
I always loved drawing and doing art as a kid, but my mother always seemed to warn me away from artistic careers. My friends and community in college really encouraged me to sell my art as well as get stickers and prints made. I opened an Etsy shop and started tabling at local markets!
Has your culture and heritage impacted your work? How so?
Definitely, I love Asian imagery and incorporate it into my works as I see fit. I do not think my ethnic identity needs to overwhelm all my art pieces, but you can definitely see its influence in some of the subjects I paint.
Has your family supported your creative journey? Did you have to overcome anything?
They are traditional in the sense that as long as it does not affect my career/schooling that it is okay. My mom even sometimes comes to support me at markets. I think they are also glad I can make some money as well.
What advice can you give to another AAPI creative who maybe struggling to follow a creative career pathway due to stigmas?
There is a place for everyone who seeks it. Whether you do graphic design or paint, if you really put in the time and effort, it can be done. There is also no shame in doing it as a hobby and pursuing more traditional ways of work. Plenty of artists have a day job which drives them to have a creative side to destress. Work is not the enemy of art.
How can people learn more about you and your business?
What are some resources that have helped you succeed?
Local Facebook groups, such as Pop Up Posse which posts local events and art markets are a must!
CMATL is an interview series where our team collects submissions and find Atlanta’s hidden gems of creators and creative entrepreneurs. This project powered by The Creative Folks.
