MANILA, Philippines - Everything self-taught visual artist Valerie Chua does is pretty, flowery and washed in pink. Soft and feminine. Sweet and delicate. She works with watercolor, gouache and acrylic and i also skilled in traditional and digital collage work. According to her blog, she is inspired by “East Asian watercolor artists and magical realism literature and poetry.”
See more of her work on quietgirl.net.
When you hear “YStyle,” what kind of images or ideas does your mind conjure up?
Lots of color, something eye-catching and fresh.
What was your concept for the new YStyle logo?
I wanted the logo to have a bit of drama so I made something narrative and expressive. I believe August has been difficult for a lot of people. I want September to be a bit more hopeful.
Were you listening to music while you were designing it? What song? On purpose or on shuffle?
Yes. It’s a shuffled playlist with Japanese post-rock like Toe and Miaou, and some songs from Emily and the Woods, BOY and Marble Sounds.
Who/what inspires your art?
I love birds. I also take inspiration from ordinary structures like chairs and houses. I look up to Asian illustrators like Kim Minji and Jun Kumaori who are very good with expressive storytelling.
Who/what inspires your personal fashion sense?
I like romantic clothing and pastel colors. I love Carrey Mulligan’s style, also Lookbooker Mayo Wo.
It’s the second half of the year –– how did you spend the first half?
I did a lot of private commission work, participated in a couple of local exhibits and I also got to exhibit in Hong Kong. I opened a couple of workshops for those interested in learning watercolor.
What upcoming projects do you have for the next half and beyond?
I’m part of at least one group show from September to December. My aim in 2013 is to be more experimental with my work, which means bigger pieces and more spectacular shows. I’m also all for arts education so I’m considering working for the academe or initiating educational projects.