An Interview with Etsy Awards Finalist Artist Carmen Hui
Whim was first introduced to the whimsical illustrations of Carmen Hui in 2014 and since then we have lovingly admired her work hanging on the walls of our office space.
Recently, the talented Sydney-based artist shared her exciting news with us that she had been chosen as a finalist in the Australia & New Zealand Etsy Awards - one of our most favorite events!
Today we chatted to Carmen to ask her all about this exciting accomplishment and her journey as an artist so far.
Q: Congratulations on being selected as a finalist in the Etsy Awards! What was your reaction when you first heard the great news?
A: Thank you! I was super excited when I found out I was one of the finalists. There are so many amazing artists in the Etsy community, I literally jumped out of my chair when I found out I was picked as a finalist.
Q: For those of our readers who may not be familiar with your stunning work, how would you describe it to them?
A: I am an illustrator and artist from Sydney with a focus on soft and delicate pencil drawings. My drawings are inspired by animals and botanicals and aims to create a world of whimsy through my series of art prints, original art, greeting cards, homewares and accessories.
Q: We were first introduced to your work at a RAW Sydney showcase, and have since featured you on the blog, with two of your artworks (a flower crown kitty and a custom portrait of my own cat) even gracing the walls of the Whim office! How has your journey as an artist been over the past two years, and what particular moments really stand out for you?
A: Wow, two years doesn't seem that long! My drawings has definitely improved a lot more since RAW, they tend to be a lot more detailed these days. I'm still super interested in animals, but have also included a lot of botanical references to my portfolio. I am still growing as an artist, and there are still a lot of things I want to try out, but overall I'm pretty happy with what I've achieved so far.
Some of the big milestones I've achieved so far are leaving my full time job to pursue drawing part time, participating in a number of group art shows and design markets, started teaching drawing at my home studio and through Work-Shop, as well as expanding my range to include greeting cards, homewares and accessories.
Q: How has opening an Etsy store been instrumental to your growing success?
A: Opening an Etsy store has made a big impact on where I am today. Before Etsy, I viewed drawing simply as a hobby. I couldn't see how I could turn this into a job with a viable income. Opening an Etsy shop has not only help me view what I do as a business, it has also introduced me to a bunch of amazing makers, many of whom have become my really close friends.
Q: What advice would you give to independent artists just starting out in the industry?
A: Just do it! Don't wait till everything is perfect, because it'll never be perfect. Don't be shy and share your work and ideas with people, the more you are genuine about your work the more people will respond to what you do.
Q: Lastly, how can our readers show their support and vote for you in the Etsy Awards?
A: You can vote for me by going to https://etsyawards.com/au/Finalist-28/CarmenHuiArt, and voting finishes on 7 June. Your support will really help me achieve my dreams, and by voting, you could win a $500 Etsy gift card to spend on any handmade goodies or a custom pet portrait by me!
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We want to wish Carmen every ounce of good luck as a finalist in the Etsy Awards and encourage you to view more of her wonderful work through visiting her Etsy store, website, Facebook page, or Instagram. Enjoy!