We were lucky to catch up with Sue Ellen Zhang recently and have shared our conversation below.
Sue Ellen, appreciate you joining us today. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?
Within the first couple months out of college, I stumbled upon a charming street café on Hollywood Blvd. It was a welcoming spot where everyone could freely express their thoughts, share opinions, and simply be themselves over a delicious cup of coffee. I found myself returning frequently, meeting people from all walks of life. I visited so often that I eventually began dating the owner.
One day, he encouraged me to sell my art next to his shop, and after some persuasion, I agreed. I spent the night preparing my pieces for sale—varnishing my paintings, crafting makeshift stands, printing flimsy paper business cards, and making origami card holders to disguise their delicacy. I was so excited that I woke up at 4 AM to set up.
There I was, sitting on the Hollywood Walk of Fame with my loose canvases gently propped up on chairs and getting blown over by the wind every ten minutes. I politely smiled and nodded at everyone passing by from the Farmer’s Market, hoping someone would acknowledge me or my art. Slowly, people began to take notice, stopping for coffee and striking up conversations. I cherished these interactions, so much so that I forgot I was there to sell my work. My art became an invitation for connection, giving me confidence to share more about my passions.
The day came to a close and as I packed, I reflected on my experience, feeling fulfilled yet disappointed in my lack of sales. At this moment, out of nowhere, a man stormed towards me and boldly stated “I will buy this painting! How much? I don’t care how much! Here is my CashApp—put however much!” Distraught yet ecstatic, I typed in a number and handed him my painting.
From that day on, I began regularly selling my work on the Walk of Fame; it was an experience that gave me confidence to continue creating and pursue art professionally.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Classically trained in ballet and art, my early exposure instilled a deep appreciation for form, movement, and aesthetic balance. My paintings combines organic forms to highlight fragility, resilience, and renewal in life. I hope to provide a reminder of life’s transience and the beauty that can be found in stillness.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is sharing my work and connecting with people. I enjoy engaging with those who take the time to reflect and sit with my work. When people share their thoughts or interpretations, it prompts dialogue and reveals new layers of meaning. This connection with others inspires me to create art that resonates with viewers and reflects diverse yet shared human experiences.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Society can support a creative ecosystem by fostering an exchange of perspectives. Collaboration between artists, experts in progressive fields (such as science and technology), and people from different cultures can push artists to become keen observers and diligent researchers. It is crucial for all members of society to engage with artistic work and provide constructive feedback, allowing art to function as a meaningful reflection of historical and cultural landscapes. This reciprocal relationship between artists and society adapts art to the evolving needs of society and advances art through cooperation.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://zhangsueellen.com
- Instagram: sueellenzhang
Image Credits
Michael Allen Creative