Opus Resource Library
Through The Eyes of Carla Chua: A Journey in Watercolor with Winsor & Newton
Opus Resource Library

Through The Eyes of Carla

Carla Chua, an emerging watercolour artist, shares her artistic journey and inspirations in this Winsor & Newton interview. From her early fascination with anime to her current watercolour endeavours, Carla’s story is one of rekindling a childhood passion and transforming it into a vibrant artistic career.

Early Beginnings

Carla Chua's love for art began at a young age. In elementary school, she was captivated by anime, drawn to the compelling stories and character development that could be conveyed through simple pen and paper. This early fascination laid the foundation for her lifelong interest in storytelling through art. She recalls how magical it was to realize that she too could create such stories, a realization that has fueled her creativity ever since.

Rediscovering Art

After several years of working in the corporate world, Carla decided to reignite her passion for art. She bought a basic watercolour set and began painting again. Sharing her work on social media, she received an outpouring of support from friends and family. This encouragement was further bolstered when her uncle gifted her a Winsor & Newton Cotman 36-colour set during a trip to London. This set became a crucial tool in her artistic journey, allowing her to explore and refine her watercolour techniques.

Embracing Challenges and Growth

Carla’s desire to learn and grow as an artist outweighs the fear of losing her existing fan base. Known for her floral paintings, she continually challenges herself to explore new subjects and styles. This courage to diversify is evident in her body of work, which includes botanicals, portraits, figures, and fashion illustrations. Her adaptability and commitment to learning are key components of her artistic philosophy.

Favorite Tools and Techniques

Carla speaks highly of Winsor & Newton’s products, particularly the Cotman range - although she has since moved to the Winsor & Newton Professional Watercolour range. She appreciates the high pigmentation, smooth texture, and ease of use across different types of paper. Her go-to colors include Payne’s Gray for its versatility in creating values and Alizarin Crimson for its ability to render skin tones and floral details. These tools enable her to achieve the delicate balance of precision and expression in her work.

Artistic Philosophy

For Carla, hard work and perseverance are paramount. She believes that while talent is important, it is the dedication to one's craft that truly leads to success. This belief is reflected in her relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, constantly pushing the boundaries of her creativity.

Conclusion

Carla Chua's journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Through her work, she continues to inspire others to pursue their artistic dreams with courage and dedication. Her story, as captured in Winsor & Newton’s video, is a beautiful reminder of the transformative power of art and the importance of staying true to one’s creative spirit.