Cynthia // CynthiaTizShop
Star Castle Spotlights are monthly artist spotlights that feature one of the many artists/makers that inspire the Star Castle community.
Cynthia’s kawaii style and adorable cat illustrations have had a place in my heart for awhile, so I had to reach out and see if she’d be willing to share what inspires her work! Her biggest passion is illustrating cute cats and other animals and creating surface patterns. She sells enamel pins and other swoon worthy merchandise through her online store: cynthiatizshop.com.
In this Star Castle Spotlight, you’ll learn all about how she learned to prioritize her own business, what she’s learned by running her own shop and how she keeps the creative juices flowing! Be sure to checkout her purrfect merch – I proudly rep her Cat Moonphase Enamel Pin in my office decor! I hope Cynthia’s charming felines brighten up your Monday!!
I've always had a passion for art and all cute things. When applying to colleges I had to really think about what kind of career I wanted. All I knew is that I wanted a creative career so I chose Graphic design as my major. I quickly learned the software and with a lot of time, practice, and many tutorials I kept getting better.
What are 3 words you'd use to describe your unique art style?
Kawaii, Simple, Cats
I love creating artwork that my viewers enjoy.
What would 'success' look like to you with this passion of yours?
I would really love to continue to grow my business and hopefully make this my full time job one day. I would also love to create plushies of my designs one day.
I know when a piece is done when I feel happy about it. Sometimes if I'm not sure it's done then I wait on it for a day then continue to work on it until it really is done.
Please share a bit about the studio / workspace you've created to work in and how that impact your progress & final product.
At the moment my workspace is in my tiny room. I do have a large desk where I sketch out ideas, work on my laptop, and where I pack all orders. My workspace works out for me and I am always very productive. I will be moving out soon and hopefully can have my dream art office!
Biggest struggle is time, since I work full time as a graphic designer I hardly get enough time to work on my own art. Sometimes I am so exhausted I don't always have the motivation to work after work. What I find helpful to me is a planner and bullet journal, it really helps me organize all my thoughts and break down things to work on throughout the week. I also make sure to give myself a break when I feel overwhelmed or going through creative block.
Do you have any advice / tips for someone looking to dive deeper and pursue their own creative passion?
Do it because you are passionate.
Some things take time but with a lot of practice and motivation you can surely do it!
Don't compare yourself to others.
It can be discouraging when you think your artwork isn't at the level you want it to be but remember everyone goes at their own pace and everyone has their own unique style. Focus on yourself and how you can improve but never compare your success off of others because everyone is different.
You can learn more about my Star Castle Spotlight series and apply to be featured here.
Looking to build a brand around your art?
I know you have your own artistic passion that you’re ready to take to the next level.
Let’s work together to build a unique brand you can be proud of.
Schedule a time to chat with your new design sidekick (me!) — tomorrow you’ll wish you had started today!
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