Painting is not just a medium to express, but a language through which the soul speaks.
My journey to becoming a painter has been a deeply fulfilling and transformative experience. I grew up in a small village in south east Asia, where the community was predominantly of Chinese descent. Throughout my education in Malaysian Chinese schools, I always gravitated toward painting over studying the Chinese language. While some teachers and classmates saw this as a departure from tradition, it was in this choice that I began to discover the power of art to help me understand myself and the world around me.
Later, I moved to the United States to pursue an engineering degree, where I uncovered new layers of my identity, particularly as I came to terms with being both gay and Asian. This period of self-discovery has been an essential part of my journey toward self-acceptance and self-love. My artwork reflects this ongoing process, exploring both my personal experiences and the universal emotions that connect us all, from joy and serenity to the complexities of human existence.
Painting has become a tool for me to connect with my emotions and memories—happiness, calm, introspection, and the occasional challenge. The creative process has not only been a source of healing but also a way to cultivate inner peace and embrace the fullness of who I am. Through art, I continue to celebrate my journey of growth, understanding, and acceptance.
Painting is not just a medium to express, but a language through which the soul speaks.