A long-awaited telephone interview with Joanna after her constant stream of work events.

Catherine: What makes you want to participate in this exhibtion despite your busy schedule!?

Joanna: This theme has a special place in my heart; and I believe, is close to many people’s hearts as well. There are not many art exhibitions or presentations on the theme of family.

C: From the look of your submission, it seems to be presented in a very personal way.

J: Yes, this theme resonated in me immediately when I heard of it so I decided to join no matter how busy I might be. I believe food preparation is a sign of love but sadly, not many appreciates it. I love home-cooked food! I am always very happy when my friends invite me back to their homes for a home-cooked meal (I can sense her smiling at the end of the line). It seems that people don’t seem to enjoy eating together as a family at home anymore.

C: Hmm… it looked like you define the physical home to be very much related to the concept of a family.

J: Yes (smiles again).

C: Did you find it difficult to present your concept?

J: The concept isn’t difficult to present, i just present the message as it is. However I’m not so sure if people can get the hint that home-cooked food is definitely much better and healthier than take-away food!

C: Do you find any difference in your art style this time compared to your previous works?

J: Well, not really… but this is the first time I’m doing part installation. And it’s more collage style than what I did previously (“that’s what I have noticed!”). It is a little different from the past though I won’t consider it to be a major break-through. I hope to continue to explore new techiniques such as silkscreen printing.

C: Any advice to others on how to balance work with interest in arts?

J: By participating in exhibitions such as this (laughs)! I think it’s important to expose to different forms of arts, example going to galleries overseas. During my recent trip to Beijing, I visited several galleries and noticed how different their arts are from ours. It is important to keep our mind open. And to keep honing your skills, even doodling during work helps! It helps to keep the flame of interest alive.