Describe your personal design style.
I like to think of myself as a minimalist but I am probably a closet maximalist.
Describe your fondest memory as a child.
I remember staring and counting down the minute hand on the classroom clock until the school bell rang. I would just run out of the school gate to hang out around the local 7-11, enjoying cup noodles at the playground with my best friends without a single care in the world.
What do you think has led you to where you are today?
I think it is the self-belief and determination to do what I really want instead of blindly following what others think I should do. My family and friends have also been huge pillars of support for me in pursuing the arts and they have been there for me every step of the way. I am truly very grateful to have them in my life.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
To proudly own my practice and work endlessly to refine it.
What inspires you the most?
I have many sources of inspiration, but I think I’m most inspired by people who pursue their passions tirelessly. I have the utmost respect for buskers and people who juggle their full-time jobs alongside their hobbies.
Name one cause you will fight for and why, and (if yes) which organisations you work with.
I want to spread the awareness of women living with endometriosis, especially in Singapore where subjects like these may be deemed taboo. I feel that it is not discussed enough.
What’s your favourite piece of art and why?
The first time I saw the paintings of the late Etel Adnan, I immediately fell in love with her use of colours to convey otherworldly mountains, suns and moons. She gained recognition only in her late 80s and her poems are beautifully written. I love that she incorporates both her words and paintings in her series Leporellos.
What would you like to have as your last meal on earth?
My grandma’s Nasi Lemak.
Which room in the house do you spend the most time in and why?
My own bedroom. It is also my studio space so I actually paint where I sleep. It is a double-edged sword as I would wake up to my paintings and I would have the urge to constantly work on them. I would have to place them outside my living room in order to stop touching them.
Name one movie that you have watched more than once, and why.
The Social Network by David Fincher. I think it’s a great movie that emphasises the fragility of friendships when one is on the path to success. No matter how successful you become one day, it is important to remember your roots. I also love the screenwriting by Aaron Sorkin.
What is one thing you had to learn the hard way?
That not everyone is going to like or support what you do but that’s alright because what matters most is that you enjoy doing what you want to do and realise that what you create can exceed beyond your lifetime.
What are the three things you can’t live without?
Music, black tea, and walks in nature!