Hello Lyn! Tell us more about yourself! What do you do full time?
Hello Sevenpie! I have worked in several different industries over the years, each more or less related to the creative field. I currently help manage the marketing and outreach for a local brand. Aside from that, I am also a freelance writer and illustrator.
Tell us your journey as an illustrator! When did you first discover your passion for illustration?
My answer is quite typical, I have always like drawing as a child. Growing up, I love “designing” my own jewellery line, creating imaginary floral patterns and such. I eventually became an animation graduate and it was during my first job at a VFX post production company that I started to focus more on honing my skills in illustration.
How would you describe your illustration style?
My style is rather varied and I’m still experimenting as it goes. However, I have been drawing directly with ink lately and whenever I’m out and about, I usually have a small sketch book and some pens with me so that I can sketch as and when I like.
What are your proudest artworks up to date?
I’m most proud of the work I did for Hey There Young Sailor, a music video by local band The Impatient Sisters under the direction of Ling Low. It was my first time managing a project of such scale (providing graphics for the entire video) and we even won an award for it!
Who are your favourite illustrators? Any local favourites?
Oh, there are so many illustrators that have inspired me, each for different reasons! But among my favourites are Dave McKean, Shreya Shetty and Stephanie Pui-Mun Law. They create the most gorgeous and intricate works, full of depth and story. My goal is to be as good as they are or even better one day. As for local illustrators, at the top of my head are Hsulynn Pang, Ajim Juxta and Sharon Chin.
In your words, what is art? What do you think about the art scene in Malaysia?
In a modern sense, I feel almost anything could be interpreted as art. Art has become very subjective and you don’t necessarily need to know how to draw or paint like the old masters before you can create good art. For example, just take a look at some of the exhibits at the ongoing ILHAM Contemporary Forum Malaysia at Ilham Gallery.
This wider interpretation of what constitutes as art has definitely open more doors and created a slew of works that are interestingly varied in terms of techniques and topics. While our art history is comparatively young, I think Malaysia has a burgeoning art scene. Many of our local talents have achieved international acclaim and recognition. What is perhaps lacking, is support from parties that are suppose to champion the arts and a refusal for open dialogue whenever sensitivities are ruffled by artworks that challenges the status quo. The immediate reaction to censor aforementioned artworks or sometimes, through ignorance even destroying pieces with historical value leaves many in the art scene frustrated.
How are you inspired to create art?
Instagram is a good source of inspiration. Many of my favourite artists upload their WIPs and finished work almost daily. I guess another way is through observing my surroundings, like the environment, human behaviour and such. And also, I draw inspiration through my own personal experiences. The only difficulty is actually setting time aside to channel that creativity into something concrete.
Tell us a random fact about yourself!
I eat raisins and nuts but I dislike having them mixed up in other foods like bread, rice, cereals, etc. Gotta have them separated!
Describe yourself in 3 words.
Silly, melancholic, adventurous. Now that I’ve answered this question, it’s starting to make me feel self-conscious and self-obsessed..
Do share some advice to budding artists out there!
The tools do not make an artist, you are only limited by your imagination.
Other than illustrating, what is a typical day in your life?
My daily schedule is rather flexible but my sleeping patterns are a little odd. I tend to wake up really early or work really late into the night when there are less distractions. By mid morning, I’m out and headed to the studio if I have things to sort out for work or running around to meet various retail partners / potential clients on behalf of the company. Sometimes I get to work from home which is always fun. Evenings are usually spent catching up with family or friends.
Any life mottos?
Never rest on your laurels, always strive for more.
Tell us what makes you smile the most?
FOOOOOOD! I mean, with the many varieties of delicious food available in Malaysia, meal times
are like my happiest moments. Haha, jokes aside, definitely my parents too. As I grow older and gain more perspective on life, family is becoming something very dear to me. Of course, like any relationship, there are bound to be the occasional disagreements. But my parents have been extremely supportive of my choices and they’re actually pretty fun to hang out with! We would go on short road trips together around the peninsular and discover new places, food and more.
Where do you see yourself in 2 years’ time?
Still involved in the creative line. And illustrating a series of short stories or poems that I have
written myself. Or working on graphics for another music video. 😀
