"The aim of art is not to represent the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance."
Aristotle
Down the memory lane
I was born in Hong Kong, China before migrating to Australia with my family. Growing up in a creative household in Sydney, I was encouraged to explore and experiment with my hands. As a child I would doodled all over my notebook and paint random patterns or items I came across. That continued on and off throughout high school until I entered university where full-time work and study took over.
It wasn’t till the last 2-3 years when I began sketching and painting again. These became a form of relief to free myself from the stress that had accumulated from work, particularly during the pandemic when these overwhelming thoughts and feelings elevated.
To my surprise, watercolour painting became my passion. It brought me back to my childhood, reflecting on my past. I also became more aware of my surroundings, appreciating and enjoying the present moment.
My artwork and inspiration
I am passionate about all aspects of life. From travel to photography, reading to gardening and the history of a city to art.
Inspired by these discoveries and experiences, and memories from my past, my artwork portrays a sense of nostalgia that retells the unspoken stories and authenticities of old (sometimes forgotten) architectures, vintage goods and collectibles, and the essence of good food and delicacies from around the world.
Style and Approach
When illustrating well-known architectures and products, I tried to stay true to the object’s original form, capturing its essence while giving life to the painting.
I enjoy layering down every stroke and detail on paper, spending hours looking for inspiration and undertaking research to gain an understanding of its history. When collaborating with brands, I like to know how my illustration is being used and the audience it is designed for before beginning the process of sketching and painting with watercolour, and at times with white gouache and/or ink.
With a subtle palette and detail painting technique, I hope my artwork transmit a notion of comfort, warmth and joy and resonates with the audience.
Collaborations and Commissioned Work
My work has been used commercially for editorial, packaging and on social media promotional events as well as by clients for private collection and unique gifts. Below are examples of commissioned artworks that I was honoured to have worked on.
