We recently connected with Mandie Kuo and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Mandie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Being able to make a positive impact on the world has always been a driving force in my life. The devastating bushfires in Australia in 2019, which claimed lives, destroyed homes, and wreaked havoc on wildlife, deeply saddened me. The constant news coverage of badly burnt koalas and the challenges faced in wildlife restoration efforts moved me to take action.

Initially, I thought of creating a post to raise awareness about the issue, but then a more significant idea struck me—why not take concrete steps to make a difference? Inspired to do more, I organized a fundraising event by crafting and selling self-made koala stickers featuring the heartfelt message: “Thank you for being kind.” These stickers served as a reminder to spread kindness in the face of adversity.

In just a week, hundreds of these stickers were sold, generating thousands of Australian dollars. This success allowed me to contribute substantially to the cause. The funds raised were donated to the World Wildlife Fund to support their wildlife restoration projects.

This experience reinforced my belief in the power of small actions and collective kindness to bring about meaningful change in the world, and it has become the most meaningful project I’ve worked on in my career.

Mandie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My artistic endeavors span various mediums, from crafting enchanting picture books to engaging in cross-brand collaborations, each endeavor infused with my distinctive style. At the heart of my illustrations are beloved animal characters, which I find endlessly captivating to draw.

In addition to my passion for animal characters, my artwork often incorporates uplifting quotes, expertly rendered through the art form of lettering. This practice stems from my own experiences in high school, where I sought solace in inspiring quotes during challenging moments. Having benefited greatly from this practice, I’ve committed myself to spreading positivity through my art. Lettering provides me with a powerful means to express myself, allowing me to create impactful pieces that resonate with others.

My career goal is to establish deep connections with my audience, encouraging them to perceive the beauty and positivity in the world. I thrive on challenges, often venturing into uncharted territories by collaborating with diverse brands and companies. Embracing new styles and techniques, I constantly push my boundaries, welcoming every opportunity to grow and evolve as an artist. I strongly believe in the significance of each experience, no matter how disparate they may appear at the moment. Every venture, every challenge, contributes to the intricate tapestry of one’s life, eventually making sense and fostering personal growth.

Currently, my creative journey involves continuous experimentation with innovative techniques and styles. I relish the chance to challenge my abilities through various collaborative projects, cherishing every step of my artistic evolution. My work has not just become a job; it’s a source of purpose and fulfillment that fuels my excitement for the endless possibilities that lie ahead in my creative journey.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

Creating and sharing illustrations that blend inspiring quotes on social media has been a fulfilling and heartwarming endeavor for me. Witnessing people derive comfort and strength from my art has consistently filled me with joy and gratitude. There’s something incredibly uplifting about knowing that the words and images I create resonate with others!

The power of art lies not just in its aesthetic appeal but in its ability to evoke emotions, spark thoughts, and kindle hope. Art also serves as a profound connection between the artist and the audience, forming a bridge through which I can bond with my readers. Every positive comment, every message of appreciation, and every story shared by those who connect with my illustrations reaffirms the significance of art as a medium of expression and connection. These experiences continuously fuels my passion for creating meaningful content, encouraging me to continue sharing my art with the world, in the hopes that it might continue to touch hearts and uplift spirits.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

The book that helped me the most while consolidating my entrepreneurial mindset and skills is definitely *Work for Money, Design for Love* by David Airey. This book delves into the balance between creative fulfillment and financial stability. It emphasizes the importance of pursuing one’s passion while understanding the practical aspects of running a successful business. Airey offers insights on branding, client relationships, and the value of creativity in the marketplace. The book serves as a guiding light to me, and helped me find harmony between my love for art and the economic realities of my profession.

On another note, Steve Jobs’ 2005 Stanford Commencement Address profoundly influenced me. Through this widely acclaimed speech, Steve Jobs shared three significant stories from his life, imparting valuable lessons for entrepreneurs. Firstly, he emphasized the importance of following one’s passion and intuition, even when it leads to unexpected paths. Secondly, he highlighted the value of embracing setbacks and failures as opportunities for growth, learning, and resilience. Lastly, Jobs marked the significance of connecting the dots in hindsight, trusting that diverse experiences and skills acquired along the way will eventually make sense and lead to innovative ideas. Jobs’ speech serves as a powerful reminder to pursue passion, embrace challenges, and trust the journey, as these elements are often integral to achieving entrepreneurial success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mandiekuo.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandiekuo/
• Behance: https://www.behance.net/mandiekuo