Talking Fine Arts with Rachel Yiu, Class of '12

We recently caught up with Rachel Yiu, who graduated in 2012 from the Fine Arts department.

Tell us, what you’ve been up to since graduating?
After graduating in Fine Arts, I wanted a job that allowed me to broaden my cultural experiences, and I had an opportunity to began my career as a landscape architecture practitioner in Japan. I enjoy that in this field I can work globally while using architectural language to connect people in the community. I am now living and working in Bangkok.

What have been some of the challenges you’ve faced?
There are many challenges:
1. How to pursue and sustain a good career in the long run?
2. Gender inequality in the architecture field – long working hours, very little flexibility.
2. How to be self disciplined when you are independent?

What classes or projects in school have helped you prepare/overcome some of these challenges?
I think the diversity of classes is important. Studio lessons gave us the freedom and liberty to explore different ways of being creative. And I always appreciated art history class, it is so fun to browse and learn in museums.

How did Paris inspire you as an artist?
I think Paris is always the best place to be when you are young and hungry. Paris is a place that nurtures me.

Where do you get your inspiration or motivation from?
Traveling, walking, taking a shower, reading, social media and meeting new people.

What advice would you give to students thinking of starting their own businesses/projects?
Find a good professional partner!

See Rachel’s latest project GOLD COAST PRECINCT PROJECT.