Meet Lyss Tan | Artist & Illustrator
We had the good fortune of connecting with Lyss Tan and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lyss, why did you pursue a creative career?
I learned to love reading as a child. That passion inspired me to write my thoughts and observations in a journal. I think that enabled me to structure my thoughts which in turn, enabled me to organize my artistic world. I was always drawn to the vernacular of the visual arts. I followed artists and began to blog, vlog, and to chronicle my thoughts through photography. The entire spectrum consumed me. I was eager to share my vision by communicating through these mediums. Pursuing an artistic career was a natural progression. The desire to communicate through art is deeply ingrained in my psyche and soul.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I enjoy story telling through my art. I am inspired by how colors and textures can create such disparate moods.. I am constantly exploring and experimenting, I love expanding my skills and knowledge. Going to art school certainly helped me a lot with my art and shaped my mind. I am grateful to have met many like-minded students and mentors at The Academy of Art University San Francisco. Carving out a career as an artist definitely has its challenges. I think patience and persistence are essential. It’s also very important to keep believing in yourself and to continuously be mindful of appreciating each step on the journey. I think I always try to bring positivity to others, and I always strive to bring calmness to myself. As for my art, I think I want to always create from an open heart. Authenticity is critical to my process.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
New York City has exceeded my expectations. The color, cultural and artistic diversity and experiences have all expanded my vision and awareness of my place in the world. Depending on what exhibits are going on, we will check out some museums like Moma, Guggenheim, Whitney, the Frick etc. We might also go for a stroll, have a picnic and sketch in Central Park. Sketching some live models at Happy medium cafe or society of illustrator can be fun too. We will also check out some shows. I have felt deeply about Akhnaten by Philip Glass and interactive performance “Sleep no more”. As for restaurants, I will bring them to Amelie UWS and Take 31. The Fleur Room is a nice rooftop bar to have a drink and dance.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My father had me sit for a portrait artist when I was around 10 years old. His admiration for the process and the artist deeply impacted me. When my father passed away, I decided to pursue art in a more elaborate way by going to art school. When dealing with my loss, Jimmy Liao’s picture books, which touch upon the subject of life and death, really helped me with my healing. My family’s unconditional love has sustained and nurtured me through this amazing journey.
Website: https://lysstan.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lysstan_art/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO7REkt0I8CZaOy0GEfzaPw
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