By Sabrina Wang
In the bustle of an art room, Zoe So’s face seems to be illuminated as she speaks. The passion is clearly visible - she gesticulates excitedly with her hands about an in-progress painting she’s currently working on (both larger and taller than she) while also talking animatedly about her piano - and I’m immediately absorbed, like paint to a brush.
In the bustle of an art room, Zoe So’s face seems to be illuminated as she speaks. The passion is clearly visible - she gesticulates excitedly with her hands about an in-progress painting she’s currently working on (both larger and taller than she) while also talking animatedly about her piano - and I’m immediately absorbed, like paint to a brush.
Since her very first day, Zoe has been surrounded by art. Both her parents are artists: her father, an architect; her mother, a graphics-designer-firm-owner-turned-ceramics-businesswoman. From a very young age, she spent much time at her mother’s store, painting and selling her work. Upon first glance, Zoe’s art is loose and confident, an unconscious nod to a graphic design influence. But when questioned about her personal style, Zoe is unsure - like any other young artist, she’s still finding her own distinctive voice, but hopes that she can find it soon (this year).
I ask her what her favourite medium is. “Acrylic,” she says, almost shyly. Then she laughs. “It’s really forgiving.” I nod, completely in agreement. “Oil paint, on the other hand …” She trails off and a small grimace appears on her face. “Is … Not.” And it’s my turn to laugh.
I ask her what her favourite medium is. “Acrylic,” she says, almost shyly. Then she laughs. “It’s really forgiving.” I nod, completely in agreement. “Oil paint, on the other hand …” She trails off and a small grimace appears on her face. “Is … Not.” And it’s my turn to laugh.
In addition to her visual art prowess, Zoe is incredibly talented in other artistic venues. Her main hobby, figure skating, has led her to compete in several provincial competitions, receiving a Junior Silver in ice skills. She plays piano for enjoyment - her favourite songs and pieces - and has earned her London College of Music (LCM) Grade 6.
As for her future plans, she has got her eye on Carnegie Mellon for the coveted double major, and aspires to be an engineer - with an artistic twist. She seems unable to part with the design aesthetic, and luckily for us, it is just the way we want it to be.
As for her future plans, she has got her eye on Carnegie Mellon for the coveted double major, and aspires to be an engineer - with an artistic twist. She seems unable to part with the design aesthetic, and luckily for us, it is just the way we want it to be.