We recently connected with Katherine Yang and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Katherine, so excited to have you with us today, particularly to get your insight on a topic that comes up constantly in the community – overcoming creativity blocks. Any thoughts you can share with us?
Overcoming a creative block can be challenging, but revisiting past memories often reignites my creativity. When I encounter a block, I need to disengage from the present and immerse myself in the past by turning off my phone, playing music that evokes strong emotions, watching influential movies or shows, or simply browsing through old photos.
Past experiences provide a rich source of inspiration. Music transports me back to pivotal moments, movies and shows remind me of important life lessons, and photos trigger vivid memories. These moments of introspection and solitude allow my creativity to flow more freely, and reflecting on past emotions with a fresh perspective deepens my understanding of myself and my journey. By tapping into these authentic experiences, I infuse my work with a sense of authenticity and depth that resonates with others.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Since I was young, I’ve struggled with obsessing over negative thoughts and experiences. My work visually represents these ruminations, using repetition and complex compositions to mirror my inner turmoil.
My illustrations serve as spiritual invitations, encouraging viewers to delve into their subconscious, release burdens, and enter a safe space where they can embrace their emotions authentically. Through my art, I guide audiences on a journey of experiencing, recognizing, and accepting their emotions. I firmly believe that art is a means of self-discovery, as it has enabled my personal growth and self-connection.
In addition to my personal projects, I create album covers, event key visuals, and illustrations for advertising and other purposes, offering my skills to a diverse range of clients and projects.
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?
Be true to yourself.
I resonate deeply with George Bernard Shaw’s quote: “Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.” Growing up, I often lacked confidence in my own opinions and choices, whether it was deciding what to wear to school or which academic path to pursue. It wasn’t until I discovered my artistic style that I truly began to feel alive and confident in expressing my authentic self. Illustration allows me to explore and define who I am, transforming my inner world into a visual narrative.
Be kind to others.
I find immense joy in connecting with people and understanding their life stories. Everyone faces daily struggles, and we are all striving to do our best. This empathy and connection with others enrich my understanding of the world and serve as inspiration in my creative endeavors. These qualities have transformed illustration into more than just a skill for me; it has become a tool for self-discovery and a means of forging deeper connections with others.
Perfectionism is a trap
I used to be very idealistic, and any imperfections or mistakes would drive me crazy. If I couldn’t produce perfect work, I’d rather not do it at all. I thought this mindset would make me a perfect person, but I’ve realized it only hindered my growth and undermined my self-belief. I was setting unrealistic standards and focusing solely on the negative, which steered my focus and energy away from finding solutions and created a downward spiral. By learning from these challenges and mistakes instead of dwelling on them, I became more resilient and open to positive change.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am eager to collaborate with individuals or brands who share a passion for personal growth, community building, and the visual expression of emotions and authenticity. Whether through music festivals, live events, performances, or culinary experiences, I am drawn to projects that aim to creatively convey and celebrate these values. I believe in the power of art to evoke and capture genuine emotions, and I am excited about the prospect of collaborating with others who are equally dedicated to creating meaningful and visually compelling experiences.
Instagram: @katherine_kreates
Website: https://www.katherineyang.com/
Email: [email protected]
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.katherineyang.com/
- Instagram: @katherine_kreates
- Facebook: Katherine Kreates
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-yang-83630a182/
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