Meet Alana Tsui

 

We were lucky to catch up with Alana Tsui recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Alana, so happy to have you on the platform and I think our readers are in for a treat because you’ve got such an interesting story and so much insight and wisdom. So, let’s start with a topic that is relevant to everyone, regardless of industry etc. What do you do for self-care and how has it impacted you?

The most valuable self-care practice that is non-negotiable for me is my two-hour daily morning routine, which includes yoga, meditation, journaling on gratitude, and intuitive writing/channelling. I carve out this dedicated time for myself when I wake up to set the right tone for the day, putting myself in a responsive mode rather than a reactive one. I do not interact with anyone or check my phone until my morning routine is complete. No matter how busy I am, this is always my top priority. As the Dalai Lama wisely said, “If you don’t have time to meditate for an hour a day, you need to meditate for two.” This practice provides me with clarity and enhances my creativity, allowing me to approach my art and business with fresh energy and perspective. It has a profound impact on my effectiveness, helping me stay grounded and navigate challenges with calmness and vision.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I am a New York-based visionary artist, creating bespoke murals globally for over 14 years since graduating with a Bachelor of Fashion Design in New Zealand, where I was born and raised.

My work is rooted in the belief that art has the ability to inspire, heal, convey positive messages and create connections that transcend words. I strive to create murals that uplift the space, bringing brand awareness and clients’ visions to life in a way that feels authentic and impactful. My art is not just a visual experience but a means of storytelling and expression. Creating from a flow state, I often draw inspiration from nature and spirituality in an organic way to bring beauty, harmony, and fluidity to my intricate line work, captivating viewers into a peaceful, meditative experience that transforms environments and creates an emotional resonance beyond aesthetics.

My artistic journey continues to evolve as I push the boundaries of creativity and experimentation, expanding my art onto sculptures and 3D objects, including furniture, sneakers, and other innovative products.

This journey has offered me incredible opportunities to travel the world with my work and the freedom to live anywhere. Over the past 14 years, I’ve been based in New York, Hong Kong, and Bali, gaining recognition not only as an artist but also as a brand, working with top clients such as HSBC, COACH, WeWork, Roger Dubuis, Ecko, the New York International Auto Show, Vans, and more.

I plan to expand the scope of my work by translating my art into a diverse range of functional and wearable designs, bridging the gap between fine art and everyday objects. By integrating my art into daily life, I can make it more accessible for people to engage with in a personal way, moving beyond traditional spaces and infusing everyday items with the emotional depth and characteristics of my art.

In addition to my work as a mural artist, I am also a content creator, sharing my art journey to inspire others with similar dreams and goals. By documenting my creative process, I aim to empower aspiring artists, sharing my techniques and skills to help them grow and find their own artistic voice.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Resilience in the Face of Inconsistency
Freelancing as an artist has taught me the true meaning of resilience, especially when it comes to navigating the ups and downs of inconsistent work. There are times when commission requests are low, but I’ve learnt that the work never stops. I’ve made it a habit to create and stay productive, using that time to experiment, refine my craft, and push the boundaries of work in different forms and areas. Whether it’s working on personal projects, collaboration with other artists or exploring new mediums, continue to stay in a creative flow so that you are always ready for the next opportunity.

The Power of Networking
Another key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of networking, to engage with the creative community and be intentional about the events you attend. Networking goes beyond simply exchanging business cards; it’s about building authentic connections with like-minded individuals. By cultivating these relationships, it opens doors to collaborations, opportunities, and potential clients who aligns with your values and vision.

Leveraging Social Media to Showcase Your Work
Social media has become an essential tool for showcasing your work and gaining visibility. I’ve found that consistently sharing my creative process, documenting progress, and showcasing completed pieces not only allows me to stay connected with my audience but also helps attract clients who resonate with my style. Be authentic and intentional in what you post, whether it’s work in progress, behind-the-scenes moments, or insights into your journey. This is key in building a loyal following and establishing a strong personal brand.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

I am always looking to collaborate and expand my craft and audience, pushing boundaries by working in new ways that I wouldn’t have alone. As the saying goes: “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”

I would love to partner with fashion or homeware brands, featuring my art on their products. I’ve also always wanted to explore wallpaper, fabric, and textile design.

Contact Info:

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