FAQ
Where did you go to school?
I graduated Sheridan College with a bachelor’s degree in Animation.
What do you use for your traditional pieces?
Watercolour: Holbein colours on
500 series Strathmore mixed media board
Gouache: Holbein gouache on
500 series Strathmore mixed media board
Oil: Gamblin oil colors & Trekkel brushes
Water-soluble Oils: Holbein Duo Aqua Oil &
Princeton Velvetouch brushes
What do you use for your digital pieces?
For my digital process, I use Adobe Photoshop and Wacom Cintiq 16 or Wacom Intuos Pro. For more casual sketching and painting, I like using Procreate on the iPad Pro.
How did you find your style?
Discovering my artistic style was a significant challenge that I can empathize with, as it can be a source of frustration and even desperation for many artists. While I understand the importance of developing a unique style, I believe it's important to remember that as we grow and evolve, so too will our artistic taste and style. Rather than fixating on perfecting a particular style, I encourage artists to focus on continuously improving their skills and techniques. I wrote a journal post on this topic, which explores the idea of finding one's artistic style in more depth. You can read it here: Finding my style
How do you become an independent artist?
Before becoming an independent artist, I was working as a concept artist at a small studio in Toronto. Over time, I realized the 9–5 structure just wasn’t working for me creatively. I kept feeling pulled toward making work on my own terms, for my own reasons.
Eventually, I decided to take that leap. In 2017, I left my job and fully committed to developing my craft and building something for myself. With persistence, I’ve been able to make a living doing what I love.
If you’re curious to read more about my journey, I share it in more detail here.
Do you take commissions?
Yes, I’m always open to taking on new projects. While I’m selective of the themes and subjects I want to paint, I would be delighted to hear more about your concept and ideas. Please feel free to contact me via email: hello@janicesung.com
How long does it take you to finish a painting?
It really depends on the piece and the size but it can take anywhere from 3 days to 7 days.
Where can I get your digital brushes?
You can head over onto my digital shop for my to purchase my digital brush collection.
Who inspires you?
I draw inspiration from a diverse range of sources and admire those who have truly mastered their craft. I like to look to the classics for guidance and am especially inspired by artists like Ferdinand Keller and Gustav Klimt. The rich, detailed works of the Baroque era also hold a special place in my heart and continue to influence my art to this day.
How do you deal with art block?
It’s completely normal to not have ideas all the time, we’re human after all. When I’m going through an art block, I usually go on Pinterest and look at art that inspires me. I save whatever speaks to me, and I pay attention to the details that catch my eye, whether it’s a color, a texture, or a composition. I try to stay open-minded and let myself be curious and experimental, and usually an idea eventually comes. Art blocks are an inevitable part of the creative journey so try to use an opportunity for growth.
Can you make money of art?
We’re lucky to be living in a time where artists don’t have to rely entirely on traditional paths like gallery representation or big commissions to be seen. Having an online presence makes it possible to share your work with people all over the world. For me, I’ve been able to support myself through a mix of client work and selling prints online. Platforms like Instagram have been incredibly helpful for bringing in new opportunities and building a community around my work.
If I had any advice for artists starting out, it’s to really lean into the internet and make it work for you. Stay consistent, keep creating, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there.
Advice for beginner artists?
I’d say go into this with patience, persistence, and a real appreciation for the process. It’s not an easy path, but it’s one that pushes you to grow in ways nothing else really does. Keep learning, keep showing up, keep working on your skills, even when it feels slow or frustrating.
There will be setbacks, and honestly, they’re part of it. You kind of have to learn to move with them instead of against them. Focus on your own path and what feels true to you, not what everyone else is doing.
Getting better at your craft is a lifelong thing, there’s no finish line. The more you lean into that, the more meaningful the whole journey becomes.
What does your creative process look like?
My process usually starts with a feeling or idea that speaks to me. I gather references from nature, old paintings, or images I’ve saved, and build somewhat of a moodboard to get things flowing before I start figuring out composition and mood. I try not to over-plan, I like leaving room for the piece to evolve as I go.
From there, I refine the drawing and move into painting, balancing intention with intuition. I’m constantly adjusting, stepping back, and making small changes until it feels right. Toward the end, I focus on details and cohesion, then let the piece sit for a bit before deciding it’s finished.