My name is Sia Geok Phei, friends at school usually call me as Jade Sia; 21 years old, I was born and raised in a beautiful town named Kluang in Malaysia. Currently I am pursuing my studies under Diploma in Illustration with Animation at Nanyang Academy Of Fine Art (NAFA).

 

My story begins when I was at the age of five, the year when I first watch a ballet dance live performance during a local event at my hometown. I was deeply moved by the performance and that's how my dream of becoming a ballerina was created. Very soon I enrolled in a ballet dance class and started my journey in pursuing my dream. Throughout the years, I enjoyed every moment of it, the moment when hearing thunderous applause from the audience, the moments when I put in my heart and soul in something which I really passionate about. Those were the moments I know, pace by pace, I am living my dream.

However, in the 10th years of learning ballet dance, something happened and it forced me to gradually let go of my journey to be a ballerina. It was indeed tough times to me, but as the saying goes, when one door closes, another one opens. Little did I know that was when a new journey begins- A journey to Art. Because of the unexpected incident, I got the chance to explore and learn traditional drawing and painting. It's something very new to me but I fell in love with it instantly and eventually it becomes my new goal and new passion in life. Ever since I learn about drawing and painting, I actively participated in various competitions in high school and won me some prizes and recognition. Eventually it brings me to the decision to continue in pursuing my passion in NAFA.

 

Growing up with both parents being a businessman, I have to say I am really grateful to have such loving parents who encourage me to chase after my dream and give me supports unconditionally. Their encouragement not only makes me a stronger person but it also shapes me to become someone who persevere no matter in what situation and be responsible when it comes to achieving my goal. I always like to ask myself the Golden Circle's Question-"What, How, Why?" I find this a very good way to challenge my thinking and keep myself on the track. At the same time, it's also a good reminder to myself to never forget the purest reason of why I embark on this journey at the first place.

 

I am a very sensitive person, and always full with passion and perseverance towards my goal and dream. I like to explore and experience new things, and you can see this personality of mine through my artwork. I like putting different styles together on different kind of art or design, which includes traditional fine art style, cartoon style, handcraft, illustration style, vector style and etc. But all in all, even with different styles, you can find my very own iconic style in every piece of my work.