Po Yan Leung is an illustrator from Los Angeles who creates art about softness, magic and imagination. Inspired by folklore, tarot and the quiet magic in everyday life, her drawings often feature cats and children wandering through whimsical, alchemy-inspired worlds. She sees her work as an invitation to stay tender and curious in a complicated world.
WHERE DO YOUR BEST IDEAS COME FROM?
A mix of everything: brain fart doodles in my sketchbook, silly conversations with friends, weird dreams, tarot readings, random shower thoughts. They show up in everyday life. And, of course, a lot of the characters are inspired by my cats and my friends' cats.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU NEED A BREAK?
It depends on how burned out I feel. Sometimes just stepping outside of the studio is enough, but the best reset for me is being in nature. Camping under the stars, hugging big tree, and forest bathing always clear away the clutter and stress of daily life.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DRAW AS A CHILD? WHY DID THAT LODGE IN YOUR HEAD?
Definitely Sailor Moon fan art. It was my favorite show, and I was obsessed with the magic, the costumes and how beautiful every character was.
ANY ACTIVITIES, EXERCISES OR STRATEGIES TO PULL YOURSELF OUT OF THE OCCASIONAL ARTISTIC RUT?
I stop forcing myself to make art and give my body as much time as it needs. I walk away from it, try not to beat myself up about not making new work, and just focus on other hobbies or things around me until I feel ready again.
WHAT’S YOUR BIGGEST ART INSPIRATION? THIS MAY NOT BE VISUAL. LIKE, ANYTHING!
My cats and tarot are huge inspirations for me. Lately, I have also been really into Chinese folklore and art, which has been sparking a lot of new ideas.
