Local artist profile: Emily Unt Wan

THIS week we chat with illustrator and creator Emily Unt Wan, who says the fondest memories in her creative life have been with the illustrators group at Bendigo Botanic Gardens, who’ve become like a second family to her.

What motivated you to take up illustration?

I’ve always loved creating.

When I moved to Bendigo at the beginning of 2023 with a prep-aged child and a new baby, I was looking for something to get me out of the house.

That’s when I found the Friends of the Botanic Gardens Illustrators Group.

I’d always loved the intricate, delicate and almost photographic quality of botanical illustration and I was intrigued to give it a go.

How would you describe your style?

I’m still finding my style in botanical illustration, but I’d describe it as detailed, experimental and patient.

I’ve realised over the past two years that you can’t rush this type of illustration.

I’m always experimenting with new mediums, so I’m constantly developing and redeveloping my style.

Which other illustrators inspire you?

I’ve always loved children’s book illustrations and I’m often drawn to a beautiful illustration before I even read the story.

I absolutely love the whimsical and strange illustrations of Shaun Tan and even had a chance to meet him at university.

Recently I’ve found and adore the illustrations of Australians Trace Balla and Hannah Somerville.

When it comes to botanical illustration, I’m inspired by my friends in the illustrators group.

There’s such a wealth of experience in the room.

What are some highlights you have from your time as an illustrator so far?

My fondest memories have been with the illustrators group at the Botanic Gardens.

It’s a room full of contradictions – collaboration and solitude, quiet and vibrant discussion.

When my family moved to Bendigo I was quite isolated to begin with.

This group were my first real friends.

They were accepting and welcoming and eager to share with me and have become like a second family to me.

Although I’m very proud of having my work on display at The Capital Theatre and Eaglehawk Courthouse, my highlights are with my friends, creating and sharing.

 

How can people check out your work online?

I have an Instagram account for my artwork and other creative pursuits.

I’m actually a Theatre Studies/Drama teacher by trade, so there are also some set design and prop creations on there along with my illustrations. Handle is emilyuntwan_creates

Are you working on anything in particular right now?

We’re celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Friends of the Botanic Gardens this year and will be holding an exhibition at the Samuel Gadd Centre during the first week of October.

I’m quite excited, as I’m working on a 3D botanical artwork of fungi from the Bendigo region, using the medium of needle felting and watercolour.

Hopefully I can complete it in time.

What would you say to young regional aspiring illustrators who are thinking of making a go of the creative life?

Look around you, especially up towards the trees and the skies.

You’re surrounded by art every day in the environment (around) you.

Find a way to practice your craft whenever you can.

Keep a notebook (nearby) so you always have somewhere to sketch or write down ideas.

Try new things, new mediums, new creative endeavours!

Art is fun because it’s always changing, so ride that roller coaster!

And finally, don’t take yourself too seriously. If you mess up, who cares? Every mistake is a learning experience and a chance to create again.