By Sophie Tuan
When did you start making art?
I’ve been doing art since I was 4 years old. I started at a little art class in Los Altos and did it until COVID; after that I just practiced by myself.
What sparked your interest in art? Why do you create?
I think I was just drawn to art at an early age; it’s really peaceful and I can easily lose track of time which is why it’s one of my favorite hobbies.
How has your art medium of choice changed with time? What is your go to art medium?
It’s definitely changed over time. Right now, I’m just getting into oil painting because it’s really smooth and easier to use than acrylic paint. It’s easy to pick up and blend but it does kind of smell bad. I think over time I used to really love oil pastels and acrylic painting when I was younger. I mainly used those at my art classes. During COVID I was also really into realism and colored pencils and then at some point I also loved to use gouache. I just like to keep experimenting with new stuff.
What is your least favorite?
Honestly, nowadays I don’t like to use gouache as much after getting used to oils because it’s not very easy to blend.
How has Amanda Borges impacted your art journey?
So I went straight into AP Art so my path was a bit different. For AP art she really guided me to be more creative and think more deeply about what I’m creating which has allowed me to weave ideas together to create a cohesive piece that tells a story.
What’s your ultimate goal with making art?
Usually it is just to make something that I think is visually appealing and something that I’m proud of. When it’s just for me I just want it to look good. A lot of the times when I do art it’s to experiment or to relieve stress.
Do you hope to pursue a career in art?
I think I realized that pursuing a career in art is probably not the most sustainable but I will definitely keep doing art for fun
What’s the most meaningful thing you’ve ever made?
I love doing handmade gifts for people and I wouldn’t say there’s just one meaningful thing. But I feel like all the gifts I’ve made for people are the most meaningful. But my most meaningful gift I’ve given was for my best friend when I made a portrait of the two of us and it became an annual thing where I would choose a picture and paint it each year.
What’s something you struggle with when it comes to creating?
It’s usually finding a good reference—something I’m able to execute that’s challenging but not too hard. I prefer to take my own photos as a reference so it can be really hard to find a reference photo if i dont have anything interesting. That’s also why I like drawing portraits because I always have photos of other people.
What are some of your inspirations?
My dad does wildlife photography so I like referencing it. I also really like some artists on YouTube. One of my favorites is Alpay Efe; he does oil paintings. There’s also Daria Callie who does portraits in oils; it’s so satisfying to watch.
Do you have any advice to give?
Everyone should try picking up art because it’s better than scrolling on your phone. It’s fun and stress relieving…for most people.
