Artist in conversation: Cornelia Wang
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What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?
My passion for art began as soon as I could remember, with an early love for doodling. I was particularly captivated by the beauty of animals featured in documentaries and was profoundly influenced by Disney’s The Lion King. Despite growing up in a conservative and traditional family that encouraged a focus on Science and Liberal Arts, I found solace and inspiration in the world of novels and manga. The local bookstore, a treasure trove of stories, became my sanctuary. Art became my medium for storytelling, a way to channel my creativity in a restrictive environment. My school years in China demanded rigorous academic focus, often at the expense of personal interests. However, my journey took a pivotal turn when I moved to the United States and attended an art school. The curriculum there, less focused on traditional foundations, allowed me to explore modern technologies in my artwork. I began experimenting with digital tools, using Photoshop and pen tools for my first series of illustrations titled ‘Metropolis’. The gradient and pathfinder tools became integral to my process, resulting in a distinctive, mechanical aesthetic in my work. This blend of digital precision and narrative depth defines my unique style today.
Do you have any rituals or routines that help you get into a creative mindset when starting a new project?
As a humanist, my creative process is deeply rooted in emotional resonance and spontaneous inspiration rather than structured logic. I begin by immersing myself fully in the artwork, allowing my emotions and the narratives around me to guide my initial vision. This introspective approach helps my mind to process and digest the essence of the story I wish to convey. If I find that the composition is not yet satisfactory, I then deconstruct every element I perceive, whether visually or emotionally. I seek out elements that evoke a similar mood and compile them into a mood board. This helps to align my creative vision and ensure coherence in my work. To me, creativity thrives in the unexpected fusion of disparate elements. The magic often lies in bringing together components that one wouldn’t typically associate, creating something entirely new and evocative.
What type of design projects excites you the most, and why do you feel passionate about them?
I am particularly passionate about projects that involve giving form to abstract concepts. Whether it’s translating the essence of music, philosophical ideas, social events, or even subtle, often overlooked emotions into visual art, these projects deeply resonate with me. For me, the act of creating art is a way to memorialize and give voice to experiences and ideas that might otherwise go unnoticed. It is a profound way to acknowledge and celebrate existence, capturing the intangible and making it tangible for the world to see and remember. This process of transformation and storytelling is what excites me the most and fuels my passion for design.
Can you discuss a challenging project you worked on during your studies or internships and how you overcame those challenges?
One particularly challenging project during my studies involved creating a design inspired by something I love. The open- ended nature of the assignment initially caused me a great deal of anxiety, as I struggled with the vast freedom it provided. I found myself continually drawn to an animation that, while positive and whimsical, did not resonate with my personal style. After numerous sketches and much contemplation, I realized I needed to break free from conventional thinking to create something truly unique. I began to question why I was drawn to an anime I watched in primary school and discovered that my attraction stemmed from a sense of nostalgia. This insight led me to revisit various childhood memories, and one in particular—a set of hanging card toys—captured my attention. To deconstruct the essence of these toys, I recognized that they involved elements of 3D objects, graphic design, packaging, and illustration. Despite my limited experience with packaging and only basic knowledge of 3D software, I was determined to bring this abstract concept into the real world. To achieve this, I decided to incorporate Augmented Reality (AR) into the project. The process was arduous, involving countless trials, critiques, and tutorial sessions. I faced significant technical challenges, including the limitations of my computer, which struggled to run advanced 3D software. This necessitated switching between different programs and simplifying my ideas to meet practical constraints. Despite the setbacks and many sleepless nights, I eventually managed to complete the project, delivering it to my school’s 3D printing lab just in time for my presentation. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and the refusal to compromise on a vision you are passionate about.
Are there any particular artists or movements that have influenced your work?
Absolutely! My work has been profoundly influenced by several artists and musicians whose creativity and vision I deeply admire. Among them are Thores Shibamoto, CLAMP, Vanilla Chi, and Eve Liu. Their artworks never cease to captivate and inspire me, each offering a unique perspective that enriches my own creative process. Additionally, the music of HIDE from X Japan has had a significant impact on me. His artistry and the emotional depth of his music have inspired many of my projects, providing a rich source of inspiration that transcends visual art and speaks to the universal language of creativity.
How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?
While I must admit that I have a stubborn streak (laughs), I have come to appreciate the value of constructive feedback. My recent experiences in job hunting have taught me the importance of viewing my work from different perspectives. This shift has allowed me to see how suggestions can serve as valuable additions to my creative process. I approach feedback as an opportunity to enrich my artistic vision rather than compromise it. By thoughtfully considering the insights of critics and audiences, I can incorporate new elements and ideas that enhance my work. At the same time, I remain true to my own artistic intuition, ensuring that my core vision and unique style are preserved. This balance allows me to grow as an artist while staying authentic to my creative voice.
How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?
Maintaining motivation and finding inspiration during challenging times often comes from connecting with friends and loved ones. Their support and perspectives can provide a much-needed boost and help me see things from a fresh angle. When faced with creative blocks, I avoid forcing myself to push through, as this often exacerbates the issue. Instead, I find solace in nature and the simple act of singing, both of which help to relax and rejuvenate my mind. I firmly believe that everyone needs a break from their constant pursuits to recharge and gain new insights. Taking these moments to step back allows me to return to my work with renewed energy and a clearer vision.
How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?
I am absolutely thrilled to be exhibiting my artwork with The Holy Art Gallery! This being my first exhibition event, it feels like a significant milestone in my journey as an artist, a moment where I am formally introduced to the world. I am eagerly looking forward to seeing my artwork displayed in cities that hold a special place in my heart, cities I have traveled to and loved. This opportunity is both an honor and an exhilarating step forward in my artistic career.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?
My long-term goals as an artist include establishing myself as a professional visual artist while also maintaining a freelance illustration practice to nurture my passion for storytelling. Currently, I am seeking opportunities as a graphic designer, which I believe will provide a solid foundation and broaden my skill set. To achieve these aspirations, I am actively increasing my presence on social media and participating in art-related events. These activities have been incredibly rewarding and have allowed me to connect with a wider audience and fellow artists. Moving forward, I plan to immerse myself even more deeply in the art community by attending events, networking with other artists, and reaching out to potential collaborators. These steps will help me build meaningful relationships and create opportunities to showcase my work, ultimately bringing me closer to my goals.
What role does emotion play in your creative process, and how do you aim to evoke specific feelings or reactions from those who view your artworks?
Emotion is the cornerstone of my creative process, guiding me from the initial concept to the final piece. It serves as the driving force behind every decision I make, ensuring that my work resonates on a deeply personal level. To evoke specific feelings or reactions from viewers, I focus on key elements such as composition and lighting, which are crucial for creating an emotional connection. When depicting human figures, I pay close attention to facial expressions, as the subtle interplay of different emotions can convey a powerful narrative. Additionally, I believe that a sense of conflict often enriches the emotional depth of a piece, revealing the complexities of the story being told. Small details, meticulously crafted, can make a significant impact, transforming the overall emotional experience for the viewer. Through this approach, I strive to create artworks that not only captivate but also move and inspire.
