Meet Holly Chiu | Visual Development Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Holly Chiu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Holly, why did you pursue a creative career?
I chose to become a visual development artist because I’ve always felt a bond with art, especially with watching animated films and remembering how they made me feel. Every time I would finish watching a Disney or Pixar movie, I’d be constantly moved by how well they can make a story so believable through art, and I want to be a part of that. When people look at my art, I want them to be able to imagine a whole story even through just one image. For me, being an artist means being a good storyteller.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I take pride in saying that I’m a storyteller first before an artist. With every painting I finish, I start out with having a clear concept in mind about what is happening and how should it make the viewer feel. My ultimate goal is to make my audience feel connected to my art, and I try to achieve that by making sure in all of my pieces, there is a story. I hope when people see my art, they also see the little world that I put effort into.

As I’m sure in any field of work, it’s never easy. At every stage there are always obstacles, but I believe each obstacle is a testament to whether you’ll float or swim. I’ve been incredibly blessed to have met people who keep pushing me through my best and worst days. As an artist, I’m lucky enough to pursue a career that I love, and I will continue to push through those waves.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a fellow Los Angeles local, I’m embarrassed to say I’ve barely touched the surface of downtown LA. Though I do know a thing or two about the suburbs just a few miles outside! If you’re looking for some real Asian hot pot, my favorite restaurant is HaiDiLao located in Rowland Heights and Irvine. They have hands down the best service and quality meat along with one of the spiciest soup broths you’ll ever taste. If you’re not in the mood for something hot, Opus Sushi in Arcadia has an amazing sushi bar with the freshest sashimi. Their toro (fatty tuna) is not something you want to miss out on! People tend to overlook the cities just outside of downtown LA, but if you just look a bit further, there’s tons of super tasty food everywhere!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I definitely would not have gotten where I am without the immense love and support from my family. There are a lot of people out there who don’t exactly consider art as an orthodox way to earn a living, but I’m so blessed that my family believe in me and my future. They’ve never once doubted my choice of becoming an artist, and I’m so grateful for that. My mom, dad, and brother are the rocks that ground me and push me to improve myself everyday.

The friends I’ve made during art school are also a huge aspect of who I am today. Because we are all going through similar situations of just trying to make it as artists, we pull from each other as inspirations and learn through our mistakes together. As all of our skills grow better as artists, our bond grows closer too.

I also would not be the artist I am today without the support of my partner. He keeps me going when I doubt myself and is always there to be the rock to my waves.

Website: https://www.hollychiuart.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinyholls/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-chiu-640624194/