I’m from Jakarta, and my surroundings deeply influence my artwork. For example, the restlessness I feel from the fast-paced urban life in this bustling city, the vibrant colors of the sunset I see after work, and even everyday objects like the weathered walls at my favorite warteg or the ballast between the railroad tracks. A subject that has particularly inspired me is cats, which often appear in my work. All of these elements shape my color palette and the composition of my pieces, creating a distinct visual language that reflects my personal experience and environment.

My biggest artistic influences include international artists such as Jean-Salvador Dali and Amanda Visell, as well as notable local artists like Popo Iskandar. Their surrealism and abstract expression have shaped my approach to blending both styles, allowing me to explore emotions and relationships through art.

For me, success as an artist is about continuous growth and learning, both technically and emotionally. It means finding my unique artistic voice, inspiring others through my work, and staying true to my intuition. Success also includes achieving milestones, such as participating in major art events or collaborating with like-minded brands and artists.

I don’t have a formal background in art studies, but I’ve loved drawing since childhood. I started seriously learning art in 2021 during the COVID pandemic. Before that, I simply drew instinctively, letting my hand move freely. However, as time went on, I realized the importance of studying art theory to improve my work. I’ve started learning key concepts like color theory, light, shadow, composition, and body proportions—both for humans and animals. I practice art frequently, usually after work or during weekends. In addition to experimenting with techniques like fluid painting, palette painting, and dripping, I also learn from observing the work of established artists and engaging with platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Most importantly, I listen to my intuition and let it guide my creativity, while ensuring that my work is harmonious by still paying attention to existing theories.

One of my dream projects is to participate in Art Jakarta, where I can showcase my work to a wider audience. I also hope to hold a solo exhibition someday and collaborate with other artists or big brands, especially local hijab brands, where my abstract paintings could be printed and turned into hijabs. This would be an exciting way to merge art with fashion and reach new audiences in a creative and meaningful way.

The inspiration behind my latest work, titled "Rangkul" (Embrace), stems from themes of unity, love, and peace. The painting features a human figure embracing various creatures like a flamingo, fish, cat, mouse, crocodile, and dove, which are typically separated by natural instincts. However, in my artwork, they coexist peacefully and joyfully. The use of blue symbolizes loyalty, trust, and harmony, creating a calm atmosphere that reinforces the message of unwavering devotion. The soft pink tones add warmth, tenderness, and empathy, emphasizing the love and care that unite these creatures. The flowers in the painting represent growth, hope, and beauty that arise from true devotion, symbolizing a life that continuously evolves through love and embrace.

Through my artwork, I want to convey the power of unity, love, and peace. I often explore how different elements, both human and animal, can coexist peacefully when bound by loyalty and understanding. I hope to inspire others to see the beauty in growth, change, and compassion, both within themselves and in the world around them.

My creative process begins with gathering ideas from various sources, including my surroundings, pets, daily activities, personal emotions, music I listen to, movies I watch, and social issues related to loyalty, diversity, and peace. Once the ideas are collected, I create rough sketches, either digitally or manually, before transferring them to the canvas. This approach makes my work more dynamic and engaging. I often use techniques such as fluid painting, palette painting, and dripping, which allow me to experiment freely. Acrylic paint is my primary medium, but I am always open to trying other materials and methods that could enhance my work. For now, I work with acrylic paint on canvas, but I might experiment with oil paints and apply them to wood or glass in the future. I always have a cup of hot coffee by my side while painting and often listen to chill music genres like soul, chillwave, and sometimes deep house to help me focus, especially when working on abstract pieces.

I face challenges by embracing them as part of the creative journey. If something in the painting doesn’t turn out as expected, I adjust it by adding new layers or colors. Alternatively, I might cover it up and start fresh. If necessary, I also take short breaks to clear my mind, sometimes stepping away from the work is the best way to regain focus. The process of trial and error is vital in discovering new techniques and making the piece feel alive. I also trust my intuition, which often leads me down unexpected but rewarding paths.

Here are some of my favorite quotes: • "Every artist was first an amateur." — Ralph Waldo Emerson • "The purpose of art is to wash the dust of daily life from our souls." — Pablo Picasso • "Creativity takes courage." — Henri Matisse These quotes resonate with me because they reflect the balance between freedom and discipline in art, the courage to be vulnerable and explore new territories, and the personal transformation that art enables.