How has living in Indonesia and the UK influenced your art?

It’s expanded my sense of belonging beyond my origins. As the world becomes more homogenized, my artistic influence is defined by constantly refining my understanding of what it means to be Asian. I realize the importance of being flexible and open to thrive these days, especially in the speed of change of Singapore.

Tell us more about the inspiration behind your latest work?

This series started about a year ago. Led by some frustration about how expensive Singapore has become, I thought of channeling this frustration in a more productive way and analyzing the value and meaning of money through my illustrations.

What was the most challenging thing about your creative process?

As an artist and a designer, there’s often a clash in perspective between the rational of design, and the philosophical meaning of art. This tension can often be quite frustrating, but in a very good way.

What are the best and worst things about money?

The best thing about money is that it’s an excellent medium of exchange that gives me more time, more freedom and helps me make more art. The worst thing is that money is often confused with our worth as a person and produces emotions that create distance and separation.

What was you rationale behind the selection of the various fashion icons?

The fashion icons were chosen as a response to high-end fashion brands where the designers' names often precede their personhood. The portraits are meant to highlight the people behind the brands, who are often overlooked. I decided to choose designers who are quietly just doing excellent work, and whom I highly respect. 

Lastly, how do you hope people respond to your artwork?

I’ve always thought that art should provoke our sense of curiosity, but it should also have the ability to educate and entertain us. I hope people will feel they’ve learnt something, and at the same time enjoy the tongue-in-cheek social commentary the series is making. I’d also love to know who people think might be worth portraying in the next series of banknotes.

See "Priceless" by Susan Olij until Sep 30 at Artistry Space. Free.