We’re looking forward to introducing you to Sophia Chung. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Sophia, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Making cute clay art that I can actually use in daily life (accessories box, ring holder)
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello! This is Sophia. I am an illustrator from Taiwan, and now I live in Ontario, Canada. I earned my Master’s degree in Illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design. I just started my small business on Etsy this March, 2025.
Before, I had never even thought about having a business of my own. The idea just sounded too scary, too far away from me, and I didn’t want to carry so many responsibilities on my shoulders. I only wanted to be an employee, taking the tasks I was assigned, finishing them, and leaving work at the end of the day. I never considered myself someone with “boss” qualities.
But here I am, finally start running my own business. It all started because of my partner, he encouraged me to open my shop. He saw the potential in my work and had confidence in my art. Together, we figured things out step by step. Yes, it’s a lot of work, and sometimes it’s super annoying to be in charge of every part of the business, but I’m still loving it. I see how much more I can do things I never would have imagined myself doing in the past.
It has also brought my partner and me a new kind of joy and excitement in our lives, whether it’s talking about new ideas, celebrating our first sale, or sharing little milestones along the way. It all feels so special!
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
dishonesty and honesty
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
I guess it has taught me to face and accept the difficulties in life. After graduating from art school, I found an amazing job, it was truly a dream job for me. I thought my career would continue as smoothly as that experience. But reality showed me otherwise. I struggled a lot, felt it was unfair, and often felt that my art wasn’t appreciated. Over time, I started feeling really bad about myself.
I had to learn how to pick myself up, to be there for myself when I felt vulnerable. I needed to accept the situation as it was and focus on finding solutions instead of beating myself up. It took me a very long time to learn that, and I’m still working on it today. This is just an example, but I think it applies to all situations in life, careers, relationships, and so on.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
I would say partially—more leaning toward the “ideal version” of myself. But it’s hard to pretend to be someone you’re not, so it’s still me; I just don’t show all sides of myself.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
My fun and whimsical animal characters. I really do think they’re charming! 🙂 I put thought into the things they do, so I would say my art has a warm, human touch.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sophiachung.myportfolio.com/professional-work
- Instagram: @thebunnyartcart
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophia-chung-991467223/
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