Meet Vio Soedarsono

We recently connected with Vio Soedarsono and have shared our conversation below.

Vio, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.

There are times when I’ve felt completely uninspired, but trying new things and looking at familiar things from a different lens often reignites my creativity. As an artist, I enjoy experimenting with new materials, from yarns to leaves to clay. Sometimes they become integral to my practice, but most of the time, they simply offer a temporary outlet for expression and experimentation. They allow me to “just” create. Additionally, shifting my perspective on everyday objects can be transformative. I often find striking silhouettes in furniture and architecture, interesting compositions in floral arrangements, and compelling color combinations in people’s fashion choices. Finding inspiration in the mundane and overlooked really works in sustaining creativity!

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I am an artist, and I create everything from paintings to sculptures to installations. My current practice focuses on building extraterrestrial, wall-mounted sculptures of organisms that exist both within and beyond our biodiversity. I am passionate about creating immersive experiences that transport my audience to different worlds, allowing their imaginations to run wild. I believe we remember certain places, objects, and artworks more than others because we associate them with an experience—a feeling. My goal is to evoke that sense of connection with each piece I create!

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?

First, a willingness to learn is essential. When I opened my mind to new tools, materials, and techniques, I started to see significant improvement in my work. I ask questions, experiment, fail, and ultimately succeed. Second, patience and consistency are crucial in any craft—that’s how we get better. Lastly, is to have genuine care for my craft. Caring for my craft means combining passion, discipline, and hard work to continuously seek for opportunities to grow. I am still developing these skills and qualities myself, but the only way to improve is to simply keep doing it!

To close, maybe we can chat about your parents and what they did that was particularly impactful for you?

The greatest gift my parents could have given me was their support. Coming from a traditional Asian background, where pursuing fine arts is often seen as a less than ideal career choice, I was fortunate to have parents who encouraged me to pursue it from an early age. They recognized my passion and supported me every step of the way, providing me with art supplies (even something as simple as paper and crayons) and eventually motivated me to attend art school. And in return, I create. I create without fear. Support truly makes a difference, and I intend to extend mine to fellow artists around me!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://soedarsonostudio.com
• Instagram: soedarsonostudio