About Victoria Chan
I grew up in Singapore, but came to Oxfordshire in the UK, in 2004 for work. These days I work part-time as a web developer, and look after my 2 young children the other part of the time. In the evening, when the stars come out and kids are in bed, I play in my dining table studio.
Outsider art
I often see myself as an outsider. I don't mean this as a negative thing. It is what it is.
As an immigrant, I am obviously an outsider to the local culture. As Asian (I am Chinese) living in a 99% White English Cotswold village, I stick out like an outsider. As a woman working in the male dominated IT industry, again, outsider. Even back then in Singapore, I had always felt like an outsider, and that's why I had no qualms about leaving.
Now as an artist, I consider myself an outsider. I have not graduated from an art school, I am not personal friends with groups of artists. I do not work in a joint artists studio. In fact, I have never attended any art workshops or classes that are not online. And no, I did not study Art History (I did Philosophy & Literature), and probably don't know enough art history.
The things I know, I teach myself from books, online resources and experiments. I'm quite sure I'm not doing things the 'right' way. And I'm proud of it. I'm sure my being an outsider, brings something fresh to the table.
I'm quite sure I'm not doing things the 'right' way. And I'm proud of it. I'm sure my being an outsider, brings something fresh to the table.
How I started drawing
I've only recently started drawing again in 2017 on a random whim. I had thought I needed a new hobby to counter all that consuming concerns of motherhood. Creating art did indeed enrich my life and has now become part of my family.
I am an obsessive learner. Artistically, I am still at the stage of exploring. Every now and then, something inspires me, and I dive into it deep, doing research, conducting experiments and learning all I can about the technique or material.
My obsessions may seem a bit random at times. But I know these 'diversions' contribute to my unique experience, and someday they will all come together as a big beautiful amalgamation.
Got talent?
I grew up in an era where people believed in talent. This deterministic attitude has resulted in me giving up many things that interested me in my youth, including drawing.
The adoption of a growth mindset in my mid-life has enabled me to improve my abilities without shame. Instead of feeling envious when I see someone's amazing work, I get inspired and learn from them.
In order to encourage other aspiring artists, I am sharing my early drawings (and other recent 'rubbish' attempts) on this blog and on social media. Hopefully by showing the realistic journey, it will encourage aspiring artists.
Artistic abilities (or any abilities for the matter) can be developed systematically.
Drawing as a mum
There are particular challenges to pursuing this hobby while juggling with the duties of parenthood and a day job as well. I started this website in hope to share the tips and tricks and joys and tears with others in similar situation. Hopefully I will be able to inspire someone out there.
Sometimes I feel like I should feel guilty about being distracted by my creative pursuits. But I think it is ultimately good for the children to grow up with their parents having hobbies and even obsessions. A passion for life is a good thing to pass on to the children.
About my studio
My studio is the dining table. This has its good side as I don't leave mess around and have to clear everything out at least once a day. So don't let the lack of space stop you from creating art!
More of me on...
xx
Victoria
