Place des Arts alumni (former student and volunteer)
Biography
Alyssa is a designer by day and an illustrator by night. She received her Bachelor’s degree from Simon Fraser University’s School of Interactive Arts and Technology with a concentration in Interaction Design. When she is not working from 9-5, she enjoys illustrating surreal, whimsical worlds that evoke feelings of comfort and wonder to her bird characters and other little things that inhabit these worlds. Alyssa also finds comfort in these worlds, as it provides an escape from the stresses of adult life and major life transitions. She hopes that whoever views her work can experience the same sense of immersion and comfort. She grew up watching anime and consuming various Japanese media, so the manga style has greatly influenced her work.
Artist Statement
My recent artworks were created when I graduated from university to express my feelings about entering the post-grad world. They are pieces about growing pains, navigating through challenges, and reaching for things that bring me comfort during this difficult time in my life. Simply, things that bring me comfort and inspiration are birds, ducks, and fishes. In a way, I would call these my fixation. I always see them during my long commute to work, and in ways it helps me wake up and feel less stressed about my day ahead.
Instagram: @ulyssmei.art