Chilu has worked as a web and graphic designer, and illustrator. She became an artist to have flexibility in her schedule as a mother. Inspired by the world around her, she tells stories through her detailed paintings.
How did you find yourself on an artist’s path? Always there? Lightbulb moment? Dragged kicking and screaming? Evolving?
I’ve always been creative and have followed a pretty winding path. I’ve worked as a web designer, graphic designer and illustrator. Another creative outlet was my business baking treats. I finally ended up as an artist when I needed an outlet that gave me flexibility as a mother. I’ve only been at it for almost three years so I’m still evolving.
When was the first time that you remember realizing that you are a creative person?
I remember being in kindergarten and my teacher commending me for colouring within the lines. That’s my first conscious memory of realising that I was might good at being creative!
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read more about our affiliate linking policy.
What do you do differently? What is your signature that makes your work stand out as yours?
I don’t do anything differently consciously – but I definitely try to be authentic to myself and speak from a kind place. It’s hard to say as I’m not analysing myself in this way – but I’ve had collectors really connect to the stories behind my work. Perhaps its the stories that aren’t so much unique – but are relatable and universal.
Do you do series work? How does that affect your approach?
I generally prefer to do series. I’m only really starting out, but I really enjoyed my solo where there was an overarching theme to explore and uncover. I also like building a series because I’m speaking straight from my heart.
Is there an overarching theme that connects all of your work?
I definitely try to process things that are troubling in life and try my best to find the silver living so that I can carry on.
Where do you find your inspiration for your designs?
Definitely from life and the world around me. Inspiration comes from everywhere – it’s in every moment – you just need to listen.
Do you plan your work out ahead of time, or do you just dive in with your materials and start playing?
I definitely plan ahead of time. I’m so slow at painting that I have ample time to plan my next canvas.
How do you manage your creative time? Do you schedule start and stop times? Or work only when inspired?
My schedule is currently whenever nobody needs me. I try really hard to paint every day but life sometimes gets in the way. So it’s mostly when the kids are at school and in night. I am compulsively addicted to painting so there’s no need for a schedule as I will consistently show up whenever I get the chance.
Do you use a sketchbook or journal? How does that help your work develop?
I wish I had a sketchbook or journal, but my time is currently so limited that I only have time to paint. Most of my concepts happen in my head while I’m painting.
What plays in the background while you work? Silence? Music, audiobooks, podcasts, movies? If so, what kind?
I love listening to music and love singing out loud – it’s an eclectic mix! I also often have Netflix or Disney in the background – I generally enjoy watching (although I’m primarily listening) a series. I also listen to podcasts. My current favourite is The Creative Kind by Julie Battisti. I do it all!
How often do you start a new project? Do you work actively on more than one project at a time?
The start of a new project and its timing is really predicated on the size of the canvas and the amount of detail. I’m a one at a time person. I often want to see something through before I start on anything else.
Can you tell us about the inspiration and process of one of your works? How does a new work come about?
One of my key works is my first balloon painting called “Stay Afloat”. I initially wanted to paint a bunch of balloons but with time they deflated, I realised it’s how I felt – deflated but trying to stay positive.
I thought of my little boy who had been through surgery early in life and it was so hard on everyone. We’ve been given such a gift with his beautiful life and we enjoy every second of it, but we know we will have to take him back for more surgery and that hangs over us. That’s what “Stay Afloat” is about, knowing that something awful will cross our path eventually but trying to enjoy the now and stay positive for him.
Which part of the design process is your favorite? Which part is a challenge for you?
My favourite part is when I step back and it’s complete. The challenge is time, and getting enough time to paint.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
The best piece of advice I’ve received is to be true to myself.
How has your creativity evolved over the years?
It’s only been about three years but I feel like I’m only at the beginning. It’s evolved into storytelling once I got the hang of what I enjoy painting.
What do you do to keep yourself motivated and interested in your work?
I think the lack of time is a great motivator. I constantly feel like I need to paint and I feel as if I never get enough.
How do you know when a piece or project is finished and needs no additional work?
I generally step back and suddenly it’s done – I don’t really know what I’m doing when I’m painting it just happens.
Where can people see your work?
They can see my work on Instagram @hellochilu or my website www.chilu.com
Interview posted July 2024
Browse through more painting and drawing inspiration on Create Whimsy.