Esther Chung Portfolio
Art Background
My journey with art began in weekend Chinese school classes, where I learned traditional techniques and developed an early appreciation for creative expression. Over time, this foundation grew into a passion that I carried into journalism, where I combined writing, design, and digital illustration to tell meaningful stories and guide others in creative exploration.
This collection brings together my late-night creations and pieces inspired by social justice. I hope they resonate with you as much as they do with me!
Wings of Surveillance
This piece captures the intensity of anxiety—colors and thoughts colliding, fragmented shapes and eyes reflecting constant pressure, and a single tear revealing vulnerability beneath the chaos. The butterfly wings morph into eye-like patterns, blurring beauty with unease as they watch and critique in silence
JoJo's Bizarre Adventure
A JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure–inspired piece that captures the series’ signature blend of bold poses, vivid colors, and high-intensity drama.
Gundam
A Gundam-inspired piece, drawn in tribute to my dad’s childhood film and the memories it carries for us.
Black Lives Matter
During the Black Lives Matter Movement and heightened racial inequality during the pandemic, I was compelled to sketch George Floyd to bring more humanity and solidarity to these pressing issues. Sketching people of different backgrounds protesting, I hoped to instill faith and hope in individuals that if we all unite, there can be progressive change.
The Myth of Empowerment
As a child, I admired Mulan as it was a form of empowerment of the Chinese female identity and culture. However, as I grew older, I learned of all the underlying misrepresentations of Chinese culture in the film. I was shocked to learn that many Disney films embody gender stereotypes and racism in a way not apparent to the average viewer. I drew this to demonstrate the harmful impacts of children subconsciously internalizing reductive stereotypes from these films and how crucial it is to inform children with accurate information so they can develop a critical lens as they grow up.
Coexistence
These two watercolor paintings are meant to depict the coexistence of humanity and nature and the cycle of humans’ life. These pieces are meant to bring greater appreciation for nature and encourage people to take action into protecting our environment.
