Yiling Changues

We are really excited to have the opporunity to speak with this special "Modern Muse" - artist, Yiling Changues. 

Hello Yiling- let's start. 

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Where are you right now?

I am currently living on my home island, Tahiti.

How would you describe a good day for yourself?

Getting up early -because I am more of a morning person. Get some tea, drink it while looking at the colors in the mountains where I live, thinking of how they are different or similar to yesterday. Then work in my studio trying to get five tasks done in the morning- whether it’s paperwork, creating stuff, answering to emails, meetings… Getting things done! Then I grab some quick lunch. Have a coffee straight after and then work until roughly 5pm. I then like to go for an hour long walk in nature. When I get back, I have some dinner and get back to work until 9pm. Usually while working, I listen to music, podcasts or Dungeons and Dragons live sessions!

 What brings you inspiration?

Nature mostly. Also - having nothing to do! Hiking in the mountains and swimming in the lagoon; at a slow pace, are the most revitalizing and inspiring activities for me. I love coming across and talking to people with passions, no matter the passion!



Which part of your job is your favourite?

I have a love/hate relationship with my job. Confucius once said « Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life ». Designer Adam J. Kurtz then said « Do what you love and you’ll work super fucking hard all the time with no separation or any boundaries and also take everything extremely personally », well I feel closer to that second statement. I am extremely thankful to be able to touch people with my art and the feeling of connecting with people in that way is indescribable. But as a perfectionist and highly empathic person, I try my best to create things that can touch most people, whether it’s through the message, the technique, or the subject of my art. I often feel like an impostor, and need to be validated by others, so I feel the urge to create « useful » art. All of this is very heavy to bear everyday. But I’m the only one putting this on myself, I know nobody is expecting anything from me. In a way, I really think that being an artist is both a blessing, and a curse.



What colour describes you best?

I think Citrine Brown does- like some kind of a hot brown. Earthy, steady and deep, but also has a bit of fire within.

Are you in love?

It’s complicated. But I’m definitely emotional!

What are you working on at the moment?

So many different projects! I actually took an art teaching job- I love working with kids. I am also working on a few pieces for group shows, a mural painting, and 2 illustrated books talking about Tahitian culture.



How do you define success?

For me, success is about finding people who are ready to pay for your work because they want to work with YOU specifically. It is also about being able to touch people who would never think they could « understand » art, because they feel like they are not educated enough. I am also very thankful when young people find an interest in my work.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

Hypersensitive, dedicated and nerdy.



Modern Muses that inspire you?

I would say Mai Ta (@qmaita), Miki Kim (@_miki__kim) and Jihye Lee (@e_hea00)

Thank you so much Yiling for taking the time and participating in "Modern Muses". Your work is truly touching and I definitely see in your pieces your love for nature. Wish you all the very best and please continue to spread kindness and positive motivation in the art world. 

Simoni