Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Bonnie Wong. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Bonnie, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you happier as a creative? Do you sometimes think about what it would be like to just have a regular job? Can you talk to us about how you think through these emotions?
I can’t picture myself doing anything else besides creating illustrations. I am very happy with the career path that I chose but it doesn’t come without doubts. Art doesn’t really make sense in my house, it never made sense to communities outside of my circle. I’d get asked when I’ll make money or when will I start looking for a job. One of my biggest fears is becoming a failure and I dread the day that becomes true. However, I can’t let that get the best of me, I have to keep working and pushing through the judgement and fears. I don’t regret anything leading up to this point in my life, nor the choices and decisions I’ve made. Setbacks cannot stop me!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am an illustrator! My beginnings are not that different from other artists you’ve met: I started drawing as a kid. This hobby turned into four years studying illustration which turned into a career. I really enjoy illustrating picture-book scenes. I aim to evoke all sorts of emotions and feelings of warmth in my personal work. My inspiration comes from daily life activities and memories. A trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art transforms itself into kids causing chaos at the museum! Fairies painting wings in a makeshift workspace arise from visits to the butterfly vivarium. It’s so important to go out and experience what life has to offer. I know these stories too well and I love sharing them to the world. Whether it be exploring tiny worlds or sharing a nostalgic and yummy, warm meal, I enjoy drawing it all.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Being able to hear people relate or have lived through the work I put out there makes illustration feel extra special. Silly comics for example about my teeth or anxiety resonate with friends and strangers. Illustrations of family dinners garner comments about fitting right in at the table feels so heartwarming. These comments keep me going, I put a lot of love and care into everything I do and I hope it shows.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Your communities you build are your biggest resource. I learned without community there isn’t anyone but yourself to keep you afloat. It feels lonely if you’re pushing to be the best without reaching out and sharing to those around you. In this tiny community of illustrators, we uplift one another and want to see each other thrive. I appreciate the friends I have to fall back on and ask guidance. I love emailing former professors questions I have or for any guidance they have to offer. My friend Connie (@cookiiecats_) created a groupchat for our graduating year to share opportunities and a collective to connect with creatives with alike minds. Communities learn from one another and will always be there!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bonniewongart.com
- Instagram: @ghoulishgals
- Twitter: @ghoulishgals
