Interview with Kei Maye

Having been one yourself, what would you say to students who are thinking about a creative career?
To pursue it and to understand that the need for creativity will never disappear. Take your time, hone your craft and never feel afraid to create your way.

On your website, you wrote that after the morning you decided to quit your job, you knew you would have to branch out and take a chance on yourself. In what ways did you branch out?
I opened up my website, launched my consultancy services and invested in some equipment to help me produce and create all the things I would need. I also took the plunge and hosted my first event - something I had wanted to do, but had been anxious about. I stepped out of my comfort zone.

Also, after your decision to go into the creative field, were there any obstacles you faced? If so, how did you overcome them?
For me it wasn't so much a decision, I've just always been involved - since I was a child. It's been totally organic for me; I've grown up surrounded by artists and creators. There have been times where I've been unsure which creative path I would like to follow as it's so multi-faceted, but I've dealt with this by just listening to my gut. You've explored a variety of fields in art, like illustration and graphic design.



What kind of topics and issues are behind your work?
Freedom. Autonomy. When I illustrate it's usually a depiction of how I'm feeling at that moment in time. I don't tend to set themes or pre-conceive pieces - I just ride it out and see where I end up. When I'm surrounded by nature, I'm at my most peaceful state - you'll often find this incorporated throughout my body of work.

It is so inspiring that you spend your time helping others facing difficulties in the creative field. How did you come across creative coaching?
I naturally morphed into it after spending a lot of time creating videos and content for people - I realised I could actually help others who may be facing similar issues I had faced and conquered in the past.

Outside of digital art, what is your preferred medium and why?
In my sketchbook, most of my pieces are pencil and nothing else. No colour, no fuss - just a pencil. You can do a lot with a pencil.

And finally, what activities are you doing at Village Green? Why did you decide to come?
I was invited to come as a speaker by the amazing Lu after she attended my event in January. Absolutely jumped at the opportunity! I will be providing advice for visual creators.