Today we’d like to introduce you to Lyss Tan.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I moved to the US in 2017 from Batu Pahat, Malaysia, starting at a community college in Shoreline, Washington. I then transferred to the Academy of Art University San Francisco to pursue my passion in Fine Art, illustration.
Art school was rewarding even as it challenged me to delve into my artistic choices and expression. My graduate work was lauded as nine pieces were selected for the Spring Show, which showcased the-best-of-the-best work of our student body – with three winning awards, including Director’s Choice in illustration.
I moved to New York City to keep pursuing my dreams as an artist and illustrator, as well as getting my Master’s degree at City College New York in branding and integrated communications this fall.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
After losing my father, at 18, to a disease that ravaged him emotionally and physically, I began to process the world in a new way. This loss informed my younger years and evolved into an artistic path that encompassed magical realism, mysticism, and metaphysics. Cultivating this new lens enabled me to reference my life in a larger context. I became more aware of disparate cultures, diversity, and I began to translate that knowing into artworks that have inspired people, and most importantly, have allowed me to process my emotions while healing.
My resolve to translate my emotions through an artistic medium grew when I first experienced the Taiwanese artist, Jimmy Liao’s picture books. I knew that was what I wanted to contribute to the world.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As I honored my curiosity by traveling and meeting people, I found that my work resonated widely. I recently received a book deal illustrating a writer’s second children’s book. Besides having an online art store, I have had art commissions from private clients. I also designed logos and create packaging mockups, as well as editorial illustrations for tech startups. I’ve had experience working as live illustrator/painter, illustrating gift boxes for beauty brand Fresh at their promotional event, as well as fundraising campaign with Sherman Elementary School, which I completed an 18” x 24” painting in 3 hours, and it was auctioned off for $2000. On top of my own picture book, I am also collaborating with other artists to create new products.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
Feel free to email me to discuss about work and collaboration. If you’d like to support me, kindly follow me on Instagram – I also have an online store where you can get art prints and other products.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lysstan.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lysstan_art/
- Other: https://society6.com/lysstan
