Carla Co Chua, author of Creative Acrylics has loved drawing and painting since childhood. She graduated cum laude in information and communication technology management from De LaSalle University in Manila and, after several years of navigating the corporate world, she decided to reignite her passion for painting. We asked Carla a few questions about her artistic process.

Quarto Creates: How did you first become interested in painting?

Carla Co Chua: As a child I watched several anime TV shows after coming from school. The animation, story and characters sparked my curiosity in how these shows are made. I started drawing the characters from posters and other merchandise I can get my hands on. My mom noticed this and one summer she enrolled me in my first painting class. I remember watching older kids paint and it really started a fascination in me that I can create something beautiful using paints and brushes. 

QC: Who was your most influential teacher, and why?

CCC: My mom is the most influential person in my life. Seeing her drive, resourcefulness and perseverance inspired me to keep on creating even though it is not my primary chosen profession.

QC: Where do you find inspiration for your paintings?

CCC: Before the pandemic I find my inspiration through my travels as I visit a lot of parks, museums and botanical gardens. Travelling also enables me to reset and appreciate the moment which in turn opens my mind to new ideas. I like to explore other crafts as it breaks monotony and gives me a chance to experiment. For example, I was once into creating miniature items from clay, then I thought about painting them using acrylics. That’s how I began to paint on different surfaces. I realised that there are many possibilities if you are just open to trying them.

QC: Have your finished paintings ever turned out different than your expectation, and how do you deal with that?

CCC: I used to be disappointed in myself when I make a “mistake” in painting and if it turns out differently from what I envision. Through experience I’ve learned to like the happy accidents I make and also I’ve set my mind to work with any changes that may happen to my work. I realised that I’m the only one noticing the “flaws” in my painting. It’s really just me being hypercritical of my work! So just roll with it, enjoy the process and be grateful for the moment you are creating. 

QC: What is the most important lesson you’ve learned from creating?

CCC: I’ve learned to be more present as I create art. When the world is always rushing us to produce more work, to post and to consume media, there is a certain peace you feel when you take your brush and focus on your paints and paper. Painting is very therapeutic and it is a hobby that stays with you until you grow old.

Learn more about Carla's work on Instagram @carlacochua and on YouTube.