SHE believed in being different and was determined to develop a holistic approach to self-care.
Ooi Viv, the founder of ZenVee Art of Therapy Academy, is a visionary and her passion for healing through art started some 20 years ago, when she pursued numerous therapy courses, integrating their essential elements to develop new-era healing art courses designed to help people worldwide.
When she established her academy in 2020, she had one mission in mind: to help others realise the importance of cherishing life and taking care of their body, mind, and soul amidst the fast-paced, hectic world.
She observed the rise in serious cases such as suicide, autism, depression, anxiety, and various mental health issues, as well as milder cases of insomnia and body aches (the result of tensed muscles).
Ooi believes that by loving oneself, we gain the strength to love others and prevent these physical and mental ailments.
In an exclusive interview with Buletin Mutiara on Aug 15, Ooi, who is also a well-known artist, shared that she had experienced mental health challenges in her younger days.
“I have gone through emotional highs and lows throughout my life.
“These experiences made me deeply appreciate the importance of mental health and motivated me to explore the power of art therapy.
“I believe these challenges have strengthened me and inspired me to help others through their struggles.
“Mental health is a crucial component of our overall well-being. When our mental health is in good condition, it positively impacts our quality of life, work performance, and relationships.
“It affects not only our emotional state but also our physical health. Through art therapy, I aim to help people find inner balance and harmony, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life,” Ooi said during the interview.
Regarding her initiative (ZenVee Art of Therapy Academy), Ooi said it was her personal experiences and love for art that motivated her to pursue art therapy.
“Art is a powerful tool for self-expression, stress relief, and discovering inner strength.
“Through my work, I hope to introduce more people to the healing power of art and help them find inner peace and confidence, transforming their lives in meaningful ways,” Ooi added.
During the interview, she also spoke about challenges she had faced while setting up the platform, particularly with promotion and people’s lack of understanding of art therapy.
“Building this platform certainly came with challenges, particularly in promoting and helping people understand the value of art therapy.
“At times, I have encountered scepticism or a lack of awareness about this concept, but these challenges have only strengthened my resolve.
“I have worked hard to overcome these obstacles by continually enhancing my expertise, hosting more events, and gradually gaining public recognition,” she said.
Beyond her leadership at Zenvee Art of Therapy Academy, Ooi holds extensive roles that reflect her passion for art and therapy.
She is an advanced instructor of the Japan Pastel Hope Art Association, a first-batch instructor of the Taiwan Arts Together Education Association (Art4MeNu) in Malaysia and is certified in Chinese ink drawing and calligraphy from the Malaysia Buddhist Institute. Ooi is also a KCN-certified hypnotist oil painting artist.
With her unique painting style, she has mentored over 5,000 students worldwide and delivers training courses to art instructors globally.
As an expert in her field, Ooi reminds those struggling with mental health issues that they are not alone and that this phase of life will eventually pass.
“I want to tell those who are struggling to believe in themselves and remember that they are not alone.
“Mental health challenges can be tough, but seeking help is a vital step towards recovery.
“Art is a gentle yet powerful healing tool that can help you discover your inner strength and hope.
“No matter what difficulties you face now, remember that this is just one part of your journey, and many beautiful possibilities await you in the future,” she said.
Ooi recently conducted her latest course training at Citadines Connect Georgetown and will soon hold her next in November this year.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat and Ooi Viv