Mui-Ling Teh

Art | Photography | Poetry | Miniature Origami

During my final years in high school I became more active with my art; I took part in more extra-curricular activities, had my work selected to be part of an exhibition, won a few places in art competitions, and was even offered a commission for the summer following my graduation. I was keen to pursue a career in art, but knew it was not easy to make a living in the field. So I chose to study architecture in university, which seemed like a good compromise; especially since I was also good in math and enjoyed working in 3D.

While I had a few opportunities to be artistic during university, I wasn't always fully satisfied with the finished result of my drawings or models due to the tight deadlines. The deadlines also often forced me to work digitally rather by hand; and meanwhile other complications on top of school stress occurred in my life. I did had a few free hand drawing assignments, but those were done as quick sketches. One way or another it just wasn't the same; I don't know if it was because of the tight deadlines, lack of motivation, or because I felt too gloomy in the school environment - or a combination of everything; but I was barely ever content with the drawings or models I created for school. During internships however, which were usually four months long, I was often satisfied when there were opportunities to do something artistic.

In 2008 I began an eight month internship. It was a nice break from school, and I decided to start doing my own art again. In February I found Redbubble, and re-discovered my desire to follow my true passion. I enjoyed showcasing my artwork online, but at the same time I was amazed by the skill and talent of other artists in the community. I used to think I was a good artist; but as I saw the talent of some of the other artists, I realized I had a long way to go. Despite that, those other artists gave me nice comments on my work; and as I explored more artworks and began drawing again, my drawing skills took another step.

Just as the works by Shen boosted my skills vastly, artists on Redbubble have done the same. Based on my own journey, I have concluded that the greatest way for me to evolve as an artist was to explore the works of other artists. This also happened during my internship in Japan; in the beginning, everyone I worked with was better at model-making than I was, but in a day's training I improved vastly. Additionally, in an interactive community like Redbubble where one could communicate with other artists directly, members are able to ask each other questions or receive feedback from their peers. Prior to joining Redbubble, I thought my technical skills were already high. But after spending some time on Redbubble, not only did my technique improve, but I also learned a valuable lesson.

 

I learned that art is not only about representation, but also about communication. Meanwhile, I realised, more than ever, that sometimes a work is more successful if simpler or more abstract. I also began getting a better hang of drawing realistically without a direct photo reference (I would still look at various photos for studies as I draw, but the drawing would not be a direct copy of one single image - such was the case in Inside my little heart).

 

Along with improving my drawing skills, I explored new ways to express my creativity, including collages and mixed media.  Sometimes, I used my scanner innovatively by arranging objects on top, and the let it run without closing the lid, while holding a background over the objects to get interesting effects - often leading viewers to believe the work was done digitally.

Although my skills have improved, I still do not get the chance to draw as frequently as I have in my teen years; largely owed to the busy-ness of life, along with new growing interests in photography, digital art and poetry. But every opportunity I get to pick up a pencil or a pen to draw always brings me joy. In recent times my drawings have also brought joy to others, making the moment all the more fulfilling.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Portfolio

 

A showcase of my passion for hand-made models.       Miniature origami models, along with a few larger models made out of plastics, metals and more.       Other ways I have explored in different materials.       Architectural drawings, perspectives, and material studies, drafted and rendered by hand.       See more of my artwork here.

 

 

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All content here is © Copyright Mui-Ling Teh, All Rights Reserved, and may not be used without my permission. Any site using my images against my conditions have not sought proper permission and should be reported or brought to my attention immediately.

 

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