Medium and Technique: Acrylic paint

Who are these characters?
At first, I tried to turn my friends’ personalities into pictures. Sometimes I get images in my head that I have to get out, and sometimes I’m captivated by looking at other artworks. I think they’re all real in my imagination. They just have their own life [in another realm].

What sort of art inspires you?
I really like folk art and primitive art. The colors feel like a mix of children’s books and a psychedelic mind trip. Like kids on drugs. My work is less inspired by the aesthetics of the art, and more by the feeling it evokes. I try to recreate the feeling I get.

Is there a deeper meaning that you’re trying to communicate?
The meaning is very subtle. Most people, when they see my work, think it’s lively, fun and happy. But actually, other people say it’s very lonely. Maybe not lonely, but evoking solitude. Lonely but happy also.

Do you feel a deep connection with your work?
Actually, in this exhibition, the original pieces are for sale, but I don’t know what to feel about it. It makes me feel like I’m giving my baby away to someone else.

Is there a societal significance?
Sometimes. I always feel a little bit guilty about it. I’m into politics also, but I can never make my work about politics because it’ll just not be sincere. I think my art and politics are separate. I think there are other ways you can help society.