We were lucky to catch up with Hoi Lam Poon recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Hoi Lam, thanks for joining us today. I’m sure there have been days where the challenges of being an artist or creative force you to think about what it would be like to just have a regular job. When’s the last time you felt that way? Did you have any insights from the experience?
I grew up in a traditional Asian household where caution and conservatism prevailed. Pursuing art as a career was considered uncommon due to its perceived lack of stability compared to more popular professions. Opting to study art meant embracing the risk of an unpredictable future and uncertain income. Nevertheless, I consider myself incredibly fortunate and grateful for the unwavering support my family has shown me in pursuing my passion. I made a conscious decision to choose between a secure yet mundane job and a path filled with both uncertainty and joy, dedicated to learning what truly ignites my passion. Embracing this uncertainty and taking the associated risks brings me happiness, as I believe it is a true blessing to have a lifelong hobby and the ability to wholeheartedly dedicate oneself to what they love.
Hoi Lam, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
Hello, I’m Lam, an illustrator and Visual Development Artist currently pursuing my studies at the prestigious ArtCenter College of Design. My diverse range of interests spans thrilling novels, history, video games, theater, chess, and fashion. Ever since I was a child, drawing has held a special place in my heart. It’s worth noting that my family encouraged me to explore a wide array of skills, from taekwondo to violin, but drawing was never a guided pursuit. Nonetheless, my love for it persisted, and I was determined to learn and grow in this artistic realm until I eventually found my way into art school. Painting, for me, is not just a pastime; it serves as a profound mode of self-expression, enabling me to convey my innermost feelings and thoughts to the world around me. It feels like destiny itself has led me to the realm of painting, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to unleash my creative potential through this captivating medium.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I firmly believe that the sustenance of arts and cultural practitioners, particularly within the realm of commercial arts, is intricately tied to their audiences. Hence, cultivating a fundamental understanding of copyright protection and fostering a deep respect for the creative endeavors of others serves as the bedrock for a flourishing cultural industry. Simultaneously, the significance of aesthetics and cultural education should not be underestimated. In the realm of commercial art, the discerning taste and vision of the audience play a pivotal role in determining the caliber of a work. Thus, emphasizing aesthetics and nurturing cultural awareness becomes paramount, as they shape the very fabric of artistic excellence within this domain.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
For me, the act of creation brings immense joy and contentment. It is a source of genuine happiness, as it allows me to establish a profound connection with the world beyond myself. Through my work, I find solace in using art as a medium of communication, reaching out to others and inviting their thoughts and perspectives. It is undeniably true that we all harbor a yearning to be acknowledged and appreciated by our peers. Thus, in a way, creation not only fulfills my desire for meaningful communication but also satiates a humble sense of pride.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://hoilampoon.weebly.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hlampoon_art/
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/hoi-lam-poon-49ba40224