BETTER late than never. This is one saying that many of us must have encountered at least once in our lives.
But for colour pencil artist, Sharon Kow Siew Suan, 51, these four extremely powerful words have so much to say about her successful journey in the field of art.
Although her liking for art started as early as her schooling days, Kow only had the means to fully embark on her passion when she was 43.
Before that, she said her life mainly revolved around school days, marriage and starting her own family.
“When my daughter reached the age of 17, I finally realised it was time I did something for myself.
“Since art is something that I love, why not explore further and make this a long-term journey?
“I wanted to do something different, and that was when I thought of exploring the coloured pencil art. It is not rare, but quite unpopular among Malaysians.
“In European countries, coloured pencil art is widely recognised and it is safe to say, many artists of various backgrounds take great pride in producing mind-blowing artworks, simply by using coloured pencils.
“Some of the brands I use are Derwent (United Kingdom) and Luminance coloured pencils and sets,” Kow said during an exclusive interview with Buletin Mutiara at her residence in Batu Ferringhi today.
Kow said she’s on a mission now, which is to get coloured pencil art its much-deserved recognition in Penang and Malaysia.
“It wasn’t smooth sailing for me when I did my first artwork using coloured pencils. Many thought it was ridiculous using tools that were frequently used during our tender age at school.
“Although hurt by their remarks, I refused to pull myself down. Instead, I told myself that I am doing this for myself, and also because I get maximum satisfaction out of it.
“We have countless talents in Penang and Malaysia, but the common hurdle is that some artists fail to look beyond the lines and rather stay in their comfort zones.
“Art is all about exploring new things, and as they always say, art has no end. There will always be something new about it,” Kow added.
Her artworks are mainly inspired from people, antique materials, history and others.
Although Kow did not quite receive the reception she anticipated locally due to her artworks presented in a form rather unusual for Malaysians, she managed to build strong connections with international artists from different parts of the world.
In the past, apart from exhibiting in Penang, she had also gone to countries such as the United States of America, South Korea, United Kingdom, Taiwan and many others to showcase her artworks.
Speaking about her first ever artwork, Kow said it was sold for RM500, and that she would usually work from 11am to 5pm daily to get it done.
“If you are going to make an earning through your artworks, make sure to set charges that are reasonable to you. This in a way would help build a sense of confidence among your customers,” she added.
when asked about her future plans, Kow said when she reaches 60 in nine years time, she wants to be a mentor for upcoming artists.
“I am a strong believer that when we are good at something, it is no harm sharing it with the rest, especially the young people in our community,” she said.
Without the support of her husband, family members and friends, Kow said she would not have been what she is today.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Alissala Thian