What do creatives value in themselves?

We’re asking established industry experts and upcoming talent from all over the world to define what they value in themselves – in the hope that it can be encouraging or provide the spark to look inward, into the practices of those who may read. This series will last throughout 2022 and our next three incredible creatives are Joanne Loo, Ashwin Chacko, Oliver Asadi.

Three more wonderful people; the fourth edition of Creative Values! Which means, more insight from established industry experts.

For this selection of creatives, we have Joanne Loo; an artist based in Kuala Lumpur. Her practices incorporates cultural elements and vibrant colour palettes. Her work has been exhibited regularly in Malaysia and the UK. We also have Ashwin Chacko; an author, speaker and illustrator – who’s getting ready to speak at Birmingham Design Festival later this year. His work is always playful, fun and energetic. Finally, we’ve got Oliver Asadi. Oliver’s multifaceted, working in film, music and photography with previous projects been featured in Japan, Romania, Bhutan and more.

Joanne Loo – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Illustrator, Designer, Copywriter

Follow Joanne: @looyingjia • joanneloo.com

"I value honesty most in my creative practice. I've learnt over the years that honesty is something that requires cultivation and courage. As much as possible, I try to be honest with what I want to portray through my work, regardless of trends and opinions. It isn't always easy to do, though.”

Ashwin Chacko – Dublin, Ireland – Author, Speaker, Illustrator

Follow Aswhin: @whackochacko • whackochacko.com

“I value that I am intricately designed reflection of God. Called to creativity to shape our world for the better.

My true value comes from who I am not what I do. I value that at the core of my being I have a heart to spread love, joy and encouragement.”

Oliver Asadi – Leeds, England – Multidisciplinary Creative

Follow Oliver: @oliverasadi • oliverasadi.net

“I value my belief in myself and my fearlessness to express my ideas in any way I choose. It gives me the ability to jump around to any medium I see fit and execute it according to my vision. We’re constantly trying to box artists into a particular medium whether it be a filmmaker, music artist, photographer, etc. This is why I purposely float around different mediums - to show anyone can do it. 

I value my fearlessness heavily, especially now we’re in the social media echo chamber, people are either consciously or subconsciously trying to fit their art within what’s ‘right’ in the current moment. In my opinion, art is supposed to transcend time and access the raw human psyche. ”

If you’d like to share what you value in yourself, please email fusedirectory@gmail.com with a few words about yourself and your creative values!*

*Fuse is platform for creatives from a racialised and ethnic backgrounds, so we’re only accepting submissions from those who identify as that!