We're delighted to introduce Malaysian artist @_sinyinnn_ to our Artist Spotlight series this week. Sinyin is a self-taught multimedia creative who expresses her love of travel through vibrant artwork. Whether painting vibrant cityscapes or landscape scenes, Sinyin brings joy and wonder to all who see her work. Below, discover Sinyin's artistic path and don't miss out on being inspired by her gorgeous artworks on instagram.
How long have you been creating art? When did you start using art markers?
I’ve been creating art since I was around 5 years old. From a young age, I loved exploring different mediums, and art markers quickly became one of my favorites. They’ve always held a special place in my artistic journey due to their vibrant colors and versatility.
What does art mean to you personally?
Art is a form of self-expression and a way to communicate emotions and ideas that words can't always capture. It's a vital part of my life and identity. Art also trains my patience and determination, as creating a piece requires strong concentration and dedication. Additionally, it's a way to relieve my stress and tension, providing a therapeutic escape from everyday challenges.
How long does one work of art typically take you?
It depends on the medium. For gouache, it usually takes longer, averaging around 4 to 8 hours for one painting due to the layering and drying times involved. For marker art, it typically takes 2 to 4 hours, as the process is more straightforward and quicker to execute.
What's one work that you're particularly proud of?
This painting is one I’m particularly proud of because it reflects my love for garden and nature art. I spent a lot of time on this piece, carefully considering every single detail to bring the beauty of the garden into my sketchbook. From the delicate textures to the vibrant colors, my goal was to capture the essence of the natural world and its tranquility.
Into the Enchanted Garden
Do you have any favorite artists?
I admire a lot of artists, but one of my most favorite artists is Hayao Miyazaki. His ability to create immersive worlds and characters with such depth and emotion is truly remarkable. Miyazaki's skill in hand-drawn animation and his meticulous attention to detail bring his art to life in a way that feels both magical and real. Films like "Spirited Away" and "My Neighbor Totoro" not only showcase his storytelling prowess but also his exceptional talent in capturing the beauty of everyday moments and the wonders of the natural world. His dedication to his craft and his unique artistic vision are incredibly inspiring, and I often revisit his work for both inspiration and a reminder of the power of art to convey complex emotions and stories.
What inspires you? Where do you look for inspiration?
Nature, my surrounding environment, artistic things, music, and personal experiences all inspire me. Anything related to art sparks my creativity. I love visiting art museums when I travel to different countries, as they offer a wealth of inspiration and new perspectives. I also enjoy capturing images and videos whenever I encounter beauty in my life, whether it's a stunning landscape, an interesting building, or a fleeting moment.
What’s the most important advice you could give to an aspiring artist?
Stay true to your unique vision and don't compare yourself to others too much. Your journey is your own, and your individuality is what will make your art stand out. I know that artists often feel less inspired when creating their artwork, so I would advise taking a break to relax. Go out for a walk, whether in the city or in nature, and feel the surrounding atmosphere. Sometimes, a change of scenery and a little fresh air can help a lot.
What is your favorite Ohuhu series?
I'd say the Ohuhu Honolulu Pastel Colors series is my favorite. The range of colors is fantastic, and the markers blend beautifully. It features pastel colors, which give this series a dreamy quality that I really enjoy.
If you could only keep 5 colors from your Ohuhu collection, which would they be & why?
It's hard to decide, but if I had to choose five colors from the Honolulu Pastel Colors series, I'd keep Mignonette, Blue Grey3, Grayish Cherry, Light Tea Rose, and Rain Flower Purple.
What advice would you give newer artists that have just begun using art markers?
For newer artists, blending techniques and color selection can be particularly challenging. I recommend practicing blending by layering and experimenting with different color combinations to see how they work together. When it comes to choosing colors, start by finding images or references online and exploring their color modes. Use an eyedropper tool to analyze these colors and then select markers that closely match. This method will help you understand how colors interact and assist you in creating more accurate and harmonious artworks.
