Can you tell us more about you and what you do?

I'm an illustrator and designer based in Manila, Philippines. I do a lot of fashion and beauty related illustrations, and my biggest inspirations are fierce and strong women. Aside from drawing, i'm also the head florist and creative director for our small cafe & flower shop 🌸 When i'm not working, you can probably find me climbing at a bouldering gym 💪 or with my cats at home!

Every artwork tells a story. What inspired your cover design, what narrative or message are you conveying through your cover design, and can you share the creative process that led to its final form?

This artwork is inspired by my cats and how one of my favorite things to do is just laze around with them in my home.This is Luningning with her cat, Muningning. Luningning—like her name—is a creative Filipino with a bright and sparkling personality. She takes pride in her roots and embraces the future as well. Here she is enjoying her time with her cat, living their best life that they both deserve.

How does creativity connect to self-expression for you?

I think my works all through the years are like a sort of documentation of my life! They're usually a depiction of whatever my interests are during that certain period.

How do you define your individuality as an artist, and in what ways does this uniqueness manifest in your creations?

In all my works I try to incorporate a bit of my personal experiences in them. It's how I feel connected to them as well.

In your perspective, what role does creativity play in empowering individuals and communities, and how have you witnessed this power in action?

I think creativity helps build confidence in us! That we *can* do great things—whatever form that may be.

Have you faced any challenges in maintaining your individuality in your work, especially in the face of trends or external expectations? How did you overcome them?

Yes! There's always a constant challenge, a faint nagging voice saying i'm not good enough. When that happens, i take a step back and look back at my old works; i try to remember why I'm doing this, and why I like doing it!

What advice would you give to emerging artists who are trying to find and express their individuality through their work?

Stop pressuring yourself finding your own individuality. Try to think of your childhood; what things do you enjoy the most? Start from there! It should come out naturally, like how every one of us has their own unique handwriting!

What’s the one thing you want to accomplish this year?

I don't know, surprise me, universe! Haha

Where can we see more of your work?

Find me on instagram, @choleil