Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kiki Liu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Kiki, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with 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?

Hi there, thanks for having me. It’s my pleasure to be here. To answer your question, I am very content with where I am and where I’m heading as an artist in the creative field. For me, the main difference between being an artist and having a regular job is the anticipation of pay and schedules. The thought of having a regular, day-to-day job with a stable income does come up occasionally, usually when I need extra financial support. However, as I notice how time passes while I’m creating and working, I cherish every moment I spend using my hands and my creative mind. In terms of schedule, I could set up my art practice to mimic a regular job, but I really enjoy the self-discipline and flexibility that freelancing brings.

It also has something to do with the material my practice is based on. Since my main medium is ceramics, which requires attentiveness at sporadic times, I enjoy having my living and studio space intertwined at this point in my life. I can check on the status of my work and attend to it at different stages while managing other errands, which is very appealing as I navigate through this period. Over recent years, the idea of having multiple income sources has become more appealing to many people. Ideally, I would love to work part-time at a “regular job” to add a bit of extra income while continuing to explore and expand my practice in the fine arts. I believe that our energy is limited by all the distractions in the world, so finding a balanced way to sustain what is most important to you is what I try to live by.

Kiki, 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?

I am a studio-based artist, meaning my work is deeply connected to hands-on practice. I draw inspiration from my surroundings and my restless mind to shape and frame my ideas. I researched and refined my practice while earning my MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art. While my primary medium is clay, I also work with other materials to better express my ideas and emotions. Entering this field was a natural progression of making art, connecting with like-minded friends, and applying for shows to expand my network. There isn’t a clear line defining who is in the field or who isn’t—art is limitless, and I believe anyone can be an artist if they act on their passion.

Over the years, I have received significant feedback on my interior design work, particularly from commissioned pieces. These projects are often larger and more intricate than my personal works, pushing me to explore new dimensions and levels of creativity. The financial support from commissions allows me to use precious materials and dedicate more labor to each piece, resulting in works of art that are both grand and intimate. I am immensely proud and grateful to leave a personal touch in the homes of those who appreciate my work. To an artist, there is no greater honor than having their work cherished and valued by others. Each piece I create is a part of me, and knowing it brings joy to someone else’s life is deeply fulfilling. My work doesn’t finish until I’ve designed, photographed, and published the final piece. To me, the images I publish get to live longer and be exposed to a wider audience, so although they aren’t part of the artwork physically, they represent closure to my projects.

I am committed to exploring and redefining “beauty” in my work as I grow. My creative journey is ever-evolving, driven by a desire to push boundaries and discover new perspectives. I strive to tune into my patrons’ aesthetics, creating not just art but a collaborative experience. My goal is to harmonize their vision with my creativity, resulting in pieces they will enjoy for years to come. This collaborative spirit has led to meaningful connections with my patrons, many of whom have introduced me to their friends, who have then become new patrons and friends. The relationships I build through my art are as valuable to me as the art itself, and I am honored to be part of such a supportive and inspiring community.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, being an artist encompasses a range of emotions and experiences, each contributing to the richness of this journey. One of the most significant reasons I cherish this path is my love for the act of creation itself. There’s joy in molding raw materials into something meaningful, a tangible representation of expression. Every stroke of the brush and every turn of the wheel is a testament to the value I place on my time and energy. I deeply cherish my time and energy, finding fulfillment in knowing that every moment spent making art is time well invested. It’s a dedication to a purposeful life, where every aspect of the creative process, even the most labor-intensive parts, holds its own reward. Through these challenges, I am drawn closer to realizing my dreams.

Being an artist means embracing constant challenges, both in my personal and creative life. Striving to sustain myself solely through my artwork demands perseverance through obstacles and uncertainties. Yet, these challenges serve as opportunities for growth. As I evolve and refine my practice, I encounter moments of inspiration droughts, financial instability, and creative plateaus. However, I remind myself to be patient, knowing that these struggles are integral to the journey, leading me to become a stronger and more resilient individual.

Despite the trials, I am profoundly grateful for the connections made along this path. Encountering like-minded souls who share my passion and vision has been a source of immeasurable comfort and inspiration. In a world that often feels fragmented and disconnected, the bonds made through art serve as a reminder of the beauty of human connection. Building a community of fellow artists and friends enriches my journey, providing solace during solitary moments of creation. Art-making can sometimes feel isolating, but having a network of understanding companions to share stories and projects with is always a blessing.

Is there something you think non-creatives will struggle to understand about your journey as a creative? Maybe you can provide some insight – you never know who might benefit from the enlightenment.

Absolutely, one of the most significant misconceptions non-creatives encounter revolves around the pricing structure of art. Unlike many other products with set prices, art is valued in diverse and often nuanced ways. Having experienced firsthand various interactions with potential buyers and pricing my own work, I’ve frequently heard comments such as, “That mug is way too expensive!” However, it’s essential to understand that each piece of art is priced based on a multitude of factors, and these factors can vary greatly from one artist to another.

Before jumping to conclusions about artists overpricing their work, it’s important to consider the tremendous effort and investment involved. Reflect on the hours the artist spent refining their practice, the personal experience, the costs of materials, equipment, rent, transportation, gallery contracts, and more. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in determining the final price of a piece of art.

So, the next time something catches your eye at an event or gallery, I encourage you to pause and appreciate the dedication and resources invested by the artist. Always feel free to ask questions and have conversations with the artists. Behind every work of art lies a story of creativity, perseverance, and commitment. By acknowledging and understanding the complexities of the creative process, we can better appreciate the true value of art and support artists in their endeavors.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kikiwip.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiki_wip/