MANY of us record our memorable moments in a daily diary, using words and descriptions to capture life’s experiences.
However, journaling offers a more interactive and creative approach to personal storytelling – whether it is about travel, food, sports or everyday life.
This hobby has led many on a fascinating journey, allowing them to revisit past memories and relive life’s experiences through stickers, handwritten notes, and and other creative elements.
In a recent interview with Buletin Mutiara, Penang-based artist Elsie Fun, 37, shared her passion for journaling, particularly in documenting her travel experiences.
“I have been passionate about this since childhood. I used to collect stickers and souvenirs, pasting them into a mini notepad to record my daily life. I never imagined that this simple interest would blend into my career and passion.
Elsie previously worked as a tutor at a stationery store, teaching people how to create diaries.
“After some time, I realised that diaries are not the only way to keep personal records. Over time, she realised that diaries are not the only way to record personal memories.
“In fact, journaling offers a more interactive and meaningful way to keep memories. The creativity and artistry involved have sparked the interest of many art enthusiasts,” she added.
Determined to pursue her passion, Elsie took a bold step by opening an art studio in Taman Pekaka, Sungai Dua.
Like many others, Elsie faced financial difficulties during the Covid-19 pandemic, but she overcame them with support from her family and friends.
“I started sharing my art collections and journals, which attracted visitors from abroad. Some came as far as Germany, Hungary, and other parts of Europe. Over time, we became friends, and they still drop by whenever they visit Penang,” she recalled.
One of Elsie’s signature concepts is ‘Kakpoot,’ a theme that symbolises growth, positivity, and companionship. Inspired by her daughter, ‘Katpoot’ has become a special intellectual property (IP).
“I hope the ‘Kakpoot’ concept will gain recognition across the country and beyond. I want people to understand the deeper meaning of art,” she said, adding that she takes pride in her handmade wooden rubber stamps.
Elsie’s handcrafted rubber stamps have gained a following among her friends and customers worldwide, who collect them as souvenirs when they travel.
She now hopes to collaborate with the Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Office (PETACE) to introduce a stamp rally at popular tourist spots in Penang.
“In many other countries, such stations are common, allowing visitors to collect unique stamps as souvenirs. I hope to bring a similar experience to Penang,” she said.
Juggling her role as both a full-time mother and an artist, Elsie remains dedicated to creating more artwork.
“I believe art has the power to connect people from all over the world, without boundaries. We can feel the warmth and appreciate different cultures through art,” she shared.
Assisted by her 27-year-old brother, Ryan Fun, with her daily operations, Elsie continues to pursue her artistic journey.
For those interested in learning more about her work, visit www.elsiewithlove.com
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat