Soemaya was born in Singapore and raised in Jakarta, Indonesia. She has always been captivated by the connection of cultures and how to integrate that into her art, a journey that has deepened her self-awareness. Soemaya's graphic design background equips her to create her art with digital mediums but she still has a profound connection to illustration, a medium that better expresses her true self.
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WHERE CAN YOU USUALLY BE FOUND AT 2AM?
Sunday to Thursday in bed watching a reality dating show, I watch them all. Weekends I am usually at a bar, or having friends over to mine.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR AESTHETIC?
My aesthetic falls somewhere in between mid-century modern and cottagecore, which celebrates simple living. It also includes a sprinkle of art deco and is topped off with minimalism.
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO COMMUNICATE THROUGH YOUR WORK?
The things I love to discuss are food, my relationship with my body and how we show love in different ways.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE CREATIVE BLOCKS OR MOMENTS WHEN INSPIRATION DOESN’T SEEM TO COME?
I take short trips, watch movies, and hang out with my friends. I do things unrelated to my art or work because, in these times, creativity suddenly flows. It's not a surefire method, but it's my way, and it can take a while. Sometimes, I just need a drink and some time to dance.
WHAT’S THE MOST BIZARRE PIECE OF ART OR DESIGN YOU’VE EVER CREATED, AND WHAT WAS THE INSPIRATION BEHIND IT?
I drew my first self portrait in a moment of depression and self doubt, I drew myself covered in 100 lilies, it was painful and exhausting yet incredibly therapeutic. I had to get out of me, and right after, I slept for 18 hours straight.
WHAT’S YOUR GO TO SONG OR GENRE TO WORK TO?
The most inspiring piece of work I've ever encountered in my life is Kanye West's 'My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.' To this day, it remains one of the most beautiful and intricately crafted creations that continuously inspires me. Both the album and the movie had a profound impact on my life, altering the way I perceive art.
WHERE DOES YOUR MAIN SOURCE OF INSPIRATION COME FROM?
Home! And the bar ;)
WHAT IS SOMETHING THAT NEVER FAILS TO MAKE YOU HAPPY OR BRINGS A SMILE TO YOUR FACE?
A bouquet of flowers.
WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST DREAM?
Happiness.
WHAT’S ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’D GIVE TO ASPIRING ARTISTS?
Be confident, continue creating, and share your work for others to see. You don't have to figure out your 'style'; it will develop as you keep creating. Also, venture out, immerse yourself in art shows, gain insights into how artists create, and explore beyond your medium. Look into fashion, music, architecture, food and beverage, and see what they're doing.