Mimo is an illustration artist based in Bangkok, Thailand. After obtaining a B.Ed. in Art Education from Chulalongkorn University, she began working for her family business. Yet, painting remains the individual’s true calling, and she has been exploring fresh methods to showcase her creativity on canvas ever since. Bringing stories to life through art is more than just a source of joy; it is her deep passion, and every opportunity to do so is truly cherished.

I had the opportunity to interview Mimo, which you can read below.

First of all, welcome back to Geeks OUT! For those who might not be familiar with you could you tell us a little about yourself?

It was great to see you again! I’m Mimo, and I’m an illustrator from Bangkok. I’ve done cover and interior illustrations for Seven Seas on Peerless and Thousand Autumns.

As a creative, what drew you to the art of illustration?

I’ve always been interested in how visuals can create strong emotions and tell stories without using words or language. Illustration allows me to communicate concepts and feelings that would be difficult to describe otherwise. It helps me to explore many ideas and, perhaps, make connections that go beyond words.

How would you describe your creative process?

Most of my drawings begin with a piece of text or a scenario from a book. I start with a quick thumbnail drawing and then study important aspects such as clothing trends, patterns, and body language. Following that, I’ll update the sketch with the new information. For personal work, I frequently modify the piece throughout, so the final result may look entirely different from the initial concept! (Lol) However, for commissions, sketches are more detailed, and the finished result closely reflects the original design.

What are some of your favorite elements of illustrating? What do you consider some of the most frustrating and/or difficult?

I enjoy drawing characters as if they are standing in front of me, and I am a spectator. I also like doing research, particularly when I come across interesting facts. The most frustrating part is when the finished product does not match the vision I had in mind, but I like the challenge of making it work.

As a creative, who or what would you say are some of your greatest artistic and creative influences and/or sources of inspiration in general?

I try to be open to diverse creative forms and techniques, thus I have no special artistic inspirations. However, I grew up watching Japanese anime and manga, which had a huge influence on my style.

Aside from your work, what are some things you would want others to know about you?

I truly like drawing black-and-white manga, particularly fan comics (doujinshi), and turning them into volumes for comic events. I’ve been doing this for nearly 15 years, and it’s one of my favorite ways to connect with the art community.

What’s a question you haven’t been asked yet but that you wish you were asked (as well as the answer to that question)?

“How do you handle creative blocks?”

Every artist gets stuck sometimes, and I’ve learned that taking a break from a piece is often the best way to reset and come back to it with fresh eyes. I also tell myself that it’s normal to have terrible days; it’s all part of the process of growth as an artist. But sometimes if I can’t take a break and have to keep myself working, I usually use pomodoro technique to help me manage my work flows. 

What advice might you have to give for aspiring artists?

Do not compare yourself to others. Concentrate on exploring and discovering your own creativity. Success may not come quickly, but it will when the moment is right—just keep going, and development will follow.

Are there any other projects you are working on and at liberty to speak about?

Right now, I’m focusing on Peerless, but I’m also working on a couple personal projects for upcoming comic events in November and December.

Finally, LGBTQ+ books/authors would you recommend to the readers of Geeks OUT? 

I suggest Hazel + Bell’s webcomic Always Raining Here, which follows two teenagers and their developing relationship. It’s been a favorite of mine for years, and they’ve now published a print edition.