I was born in Jurong, Singapore *some* years ago. I was born to Singaporean parents and the house and area where I spent the first eight years of my life was really, really beautiful. In fact, when I was told we’d be moving to the UK after my dad became a specialist surgeon I cried for seven days straight.

These eight years really shaped who I was and my outlook on life. Singaporeans are so diverse and friendly and community focused, but they’re also business savvy yet creatively inclined. Because there is such a mix of heritage and ethnicities I always felt like there was no animosity between anyone. I’m sure some people would disagree, but I never felt as though there were any culture clashes on the island.

After moving to the UK, I found myself a little displaced at first. I had great English skills and even went to an international school back in Singapore, but something just seemed amiss. I had no connection to the culture there. I turned to painting and computers in order to replace the friends I struggled to make.

Things got better, I think I just stopped being a brat and opened myself up to the kids I went to school with. This is when my appreciation for life and life as art really developed. People are so interesting.

I got my citizenship a few years ago too! I was super disappointed that I didn’t actually get to meet the Queen. Talk about false promises!