How did you get started as an artist?
I have always been passionate about drawing, painting and crafting since my early childhood. As a student, I have always been the topper in all my Art classes. I was also ranked among the 10 best International Students of 2010 for Art & Design in Higher School Certificate; Cambridge International Examinations. After that, I did my 4 years of BA(Hons) Fine Arts, specialised in Painting which made me a full time Art Educator since 2016. I started doing commissioned paintings for clients and soon launched my brand name "D'Art Shinee" as being the Brand Partner of several local organizations with regards to making Customized Portraits to be given as gifts to various personalities ranging from International Artists (Singers, Musicians), Political Figures (Foreign Guests of Honor) and Religious Leaders.
I have also participated in many Local & International Art Exhibitions and been featured in Art Magazines.
It is my belief that realistic portrayals evoke a visceral response, prompting observers to confront the raw truths and shared humanity embedded in the narratives
What themes does your work involve?
As an artist deeply committed to the intersection of creativity and societal reflection, my work is a visual exploration of the historical and social narratives that shape our collective consciousness. With a profound belief in the power of art to convey messages beyond words, I embark on a journey of storytelling through vivid colors and realistic depictions.
My paintings serve as a canvas offering a visual dialogue on issues that resonate across time and cultures.
I like to use vibrant tones in my paintings which are intentional and imbued with meaning. I invite the viewers to delve beyond the surface and connect with the profound stories within.
I also love to include realism in each of my canvas. It is my belief that realistic portrayals evoke a visceral response, prompting observers to confront the raw truths and shared humanity embedded in the narratives. Through this approach, I hope to bridge the gap between the observer and the observed, creating a space for connection and understanding.
What is your source of inspiration?
My biggest source of inspiration for my artworks mostly comes from the good instrumental music from the Indian maestro 'A.R.Rahman'. I find endless inspiration while listening to his composed music which allows me to create pieces that are deeply meaningful and authentic. His music takes me to another dimension and energises me to paint limitlessly.
Can you describe your creative process?
My creative process often begins with inspirations which come from various sources such as personal experiences, emotions, society issues or random insights. Once I am inspired, I embark on a phase of exploration and research. This could involve gathering reference materials or experimenting with different techniques. I do some brainstorming/sketches and write down my thoughts to develop and refine my vision.
With the concept already in my mind, I start to choose and gather all my suitable materials.
Once everything is organised, I start with the artwork process. I then continually evaluate and refine my work as sometimes adjustments to color, texture or changes may be needed based on my artistic intuition. Also, I examine my artwork from different perspectives and seek feedback from trusted critics. This helps me to gain insight into my strengths and weaknesses, and identify areas of improvement. Eventually, once the artwork is finished, I add the final touches and sign it and prepare the piece for packing or exhibiting.
Do you have any artistic goals for the future that you would like to share?
As an artist, experimenting with new mediums like digital art, performance art would really expand my artistic horizon and challenge my creativity. Also, engaging myself in collaborative projects with other artists, writers, musicians from various disciplines to create artworks that blend in a different form of expressions. Lastly, my ultimate goal is to exhibit my artworks internationally in art galleries and exhibitions to reach broader audiences and gain exposure on a global scale.
