Q&A with Robin!

Where do you see yourself in the year 2028?

I see a very open future full of different opportunities. I imagine I would be working at an animation or film studio; I want to continue as a storyteller and work both collaboratively and independently to put the best stories out there. Also, I am hoping to have some books published by then, more specifically, my book Draw. I would love to be an illustrator for an author’s picture book or novel as well as writing some more stories myself. Overall, I don’t see myself under a rigid plan. I do have aspirations for working on movies and as a storyteller, but I imagine my future will transform into more than I could ever imagine.

What is your favorite medium to work with?

I am a painter at heart, more so with gouache and acrylic, but my favorite painting medium would be POSCA paint markers! However, I feel like my answer would be whichever medium feels right for the piece I’m working on. The feeling of traditional mediums is unmatched, but art softwares have evolved so much since I was introduced to them. I love using both in the same pieces and I will continue to explore how they can enhance one another.

What has been the most unique piece you have ever worked on?

I have a few answers for this one! Out of all of the pieces in my portfolio, I would have to say it is between my Gif (animation) in terms of how I made it and Draw (books) in terms of the story that was told. My gif, Anxious, was made with hand-painted watercolor backgrounds and digitally animated lines. My book, Draw, is about my journey of learning to communicate after being diagnosed with Speech and Language delay as a toddler.

Other than illustrating, what do you like to do in your free time?

I personally love to go out somewhere or stay in playing games with friends whenever I can. I have a great friend group that does game nights on a weekly basis online! Otherwise, for personal hobbies, I like to play the ukulele (I’m self-taught with soprano/concert since December 2014), go swimming, try out new recipes (more so baking), and I used to do kickboxing starting in 2021.

What’s your favorite food?

Ooooooh! This is so tough honestly. I am a pescatarian, which may sound restrictive, but I LOVE to explore foods from different cultures! I guess in terms of choosing a meal of the day, brunch has always won my heart. However, as for a specific cuisine, I would have to say Burmese food. If you’re in the Bay Area, I highly recommend trying the catfish curry and tea leaf salad at Burma Superstar in Oakland. You won’t regret it!