Where are you from and what sort of child were you?

I was born and raised in Hong Kong and moved to Canada when I was 12. As an only child, I have always been fairly shy and quiet.

Tell us about your first memories of being creative. What were your early influences and/or exposure to art and culture?

I spent a lot of time drawing on my own while I was growing up. My parents used to keep this very thick stack of sketch paper under a cabinet for me, and I remember it would bring me so much joy every time I grabbed a new sheet to draw on. Eventually, I would ask my parents to sign me up for art classes.

Describe your work in 3 sentences or less.

This collection of jewellery and objects is a combination of my experiences in design and ceramics. Focusing on craftsmanship, the collection is inspired by the interplay of geometric forms.

What brought you to ceramics? Was there a pivotal moment in your past where you discovered it? Or was it a progression over a period of time?

I first studied interior design and have been working in the field since graduation. A few years ago, I wanted to explore something new and decided to take a leap of faith and enrolled in a ceramics program in Geneva, Switzerland. Since returning to Canada, I have been working to integrate my design experiences into my ceramic practice, ranging from experiential ceramic installations to making objects.

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us!

I am constantly looking for ways to incorporate different disciplines and materials into my work. Currently, I am taking courses in jewellery as I have never had a chance to work with metal in my creative journey. I am really excited to bring this additional layer to my collection.

Tell us about your first real break.

As an emerging designer/artist/maker, I still consider myself to be working towards my first real break. However, having several opportunities to showcase my installation work at a couple  of large-scale shows really helped to encourage me to further pursue my creative path.

What has been the biggest challenge of your artistic career that you’ve encountered so far?

Finding the balance in continuing the creative journey and making a living, where these two things don’t always go hand-in-hand. Also, being able to filter out all the noise and creating work that is truly authentic to myself.

What does your average day look like and when are you most productive?

My schedule varies greatly. However, I am most productive when I have a series of days in the studio and have ideas ready to be explored. And when there is a deadline! 🙂

What or who inspires you to be your most creative self? And how do you overcome a creative block?

My inspirations come from different places, but find myself feeling the most inspired when travelling. I also believe that a creative block is a sign of fatigue and being burnt out. Sometimes all it needs is some rest and a break away from the work to feel rejuvenated and inspired again.

What is your favourite place in the world? Is there anywhere you would still like to visit?

There is still so much to see in the world, it is hard to narrow down to just one favourite place. However, I’ve found Japan to be particularly inspiring and definitely a country I can see myself visiting over and over again.

How would your friends describe you?

Helpful, honest and trustworthy.

If you could give advice to your 20-year-old self, what would it be?

If there is something that you really want to do, go for it! Don’t wait.

Tell us about your latest work, and anything that’s on the horizon for you?

I have been concentrating on my ceramic jewellery line for the past year. I am really looking forward to expanding the collection and working on a series of objects and perhaps going back to where it all began — installation work.