Angela Wan
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Angela Wan is a new artist based in Honolulu, Hawaii. She graduated from Drexel University with a Master’s degree in Media Art and Design. She spent ten years as a product designer in Silicon Valley's tech industry. Now settled in Hawaii, her artwork centers on themes of relaxation and creativity, seamlessly combining digital tools like Procreate with traditional acrylics to capture the serene and delightful essence of island life.
Angela's art has been featured in publications, including Artist Talk Magazine in London, UK. Her artwork has been exhibited internationally, including The ARTS at Marks Garage in Honolulu, US, and Moyu Art Gallery in Guangzhou, China.
https://angela-wan-arts.square.site/
What inspired you to become an artist, and how did you decide to commit to this path?
My interest in art started at a young age, and I've always loved creativity, which is why I pursued a career as a designer. Becoming an artist has been a dream of mine, and earlier this year, when I was laid off in February, I suddenly had the time to really focus on that dream. I began dedicating more time to creating artworks and sharing them on social media. The response has been incredible—seeing more and more followers and hearing how much people love my work has been both exciting and deeply rewarding. This experience has solidified my commitment to this path as an artist.
Could you share the story or concept behind your recent work?
My recent work centers around themes of relaxation, calmness, and vibrant colors, which are deeply inspired by my life in Hawaii. Hawaii’s serene landscapes, gentle breezes, and the vibrant hues of nature have always evoked a sense of peace and tranquility in me. Through my art, I aim to capture and share that feeling, creating pieces that transport viewers to a place of pure relaxation and joy.
What was the most challenging part of your path so far? How are you navigating this obstacle?
The most challenging part of my path so far has been navigating the transition from being a beginner artist to making a living from my art. Right now, I’m still working as a product designer to support myself because I don’t yet have enough resources to sell my artworks full-time. To overcome this, I’m steadily building my social media presence and have recently created a website where people can purchase my art. It’s a work in progress, but I’m hopeful that with time and persistence, I’ll be able to transition into being a full-time artist.
What role does experimentation and exploration play in your artistic practice?
Experimentation and exploration are crucial to my artistic practice. I start by sketching concepts on my iPad, where I experiment with different colors, compositions, and combinations. This allows me to refine my ideas before applying them to the canvas, ensuring that each piece is both thoughtful and dynamic.
Do you have any start or stop rituals before creating?
Yes, I do! Before creating, I like to put on some music. Usually, it's classical music that is gentle and light. It helps me get into a relaxed and focused mindset, creating the perfect atmosphere for my artistic flow.
What message do you hope your art conveys to the world?
I hope my art encourages people to relax and treat themselves well. Life is too short to be consumed by worries, and I want my work to remind people to embrace peace, enjoy the moment, and live with a sense of ease.
Share a mantra or favorite quote that keeps you going.
“Art should be something that liberates your soul, provokes the imagination and encourages people to go further.” – Keith Haring
