Shan Shan Lim: Embracing Heritage Through Art

By bringing a little bit of home into her art, Shan Shan Lim creates a style that captures the connection between culture, heritage, and gratitude. Her work balances simplicity and the complex nature of childhood memories.

@shanshanlimstudios shapes her art by drawing from the world around her, often using recurring organic shapes such as circles to represent the cyclical nature of life.

Read on to discover the creative process behind Shan Shan Lim’s work.

Hey Shan Shan, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background as an artist/creator?

I'm a Textile Design graduate from Central Saint Martins, with a focus on weaving and print, though my creative journey began long before formal training. Growing up in a home shaped by design — my father, an architect, and my late mother, a graphic designer — I was always encouraged to explore art. My work is influenced by experiences across cultures, from my early years in the Himalayas to my studies in London. I’ve exhibited in Malaysia, Singapore, London, and Helsinki.

How have these different cultural environments influenced your artistic perspective, and how do they show up in your work?

They’ve had a subtle but profound impact on my work. Growing up in the Himalayas, I was inspired by local artisans. I learned how Gandhi used the act of weaving khadi cloth to unite a nation and resist British colonialism. While working with the Harris loom in London, I kept a photo of Gandhi nearby as a reminder of the power of craft. In London, I explored ikat, a technique from Malaysia, and found ways to innovate and push its boundaries thousands of miles from home. Distance brings perspective.

Looking back at your journey from your early years to now, how has your style and approach evolved? Are there any pivotal moments or projects that shaped this evolution?

I’ve learned that the essence of an idea can be more powerful when distilled to its most basic form. A pivotal moment was returning to Malaysia after several years in London. It was a leap of faith, but when I saw my work translated into textiles, mural walls, and even notebooks, I felt a sense of pride and ownership. I was able to fully embrace my voice as an artist.

How would you describe your artistic style and influences?

My style is rooted in simplicity and the organic flow of shapes, capturing life’s balance and beauty. I find inspiration in nature, especially elements reflecting transience — the way flowers bloom, wither, and return to the earth. Artists like Hilma af Klint and Georgia O’Keeffe inspire me, as they connect metaphysical ideas with organic forms. My work explores the subtle moments and memories that shape who we are.

Whether consciously or not, my motifs act as characters tied to specific feelings, often reappearing across my work. Circles are my most common shape: a symbol of unity, completion, death, rebirth, the sun, and the moon. This form mirrors human potential to grow, transform, and return to our core, reflecting our pursuit of self-understanding and the universe.

Are there any specific themes or messages you wanted to convey through the cover?

Turning Over Old Leaves: To understand oneself better, we must often look to our roots, culture, upbringing, and memories. Inspired by flipping through childhood diaries and family albums, this piece reminds us that the places, people, and experiences we carry with us shape who we are.

Stars Aligned: This artwork reflects gratitude and harmony, reminiscent of when stars align and life flows as it should. It was inspired by an older series, ‘Prints of May,’ and reimagined with a mature color palette and hand-painted details.

Did you face any challenges or obstacles while creating the design? If so, how did you overcome them?

Turning Over Old Leaves: This piece was created during a visit to London, where I reflected on memories and past experiences. Revisiting an older artwork allowed me to embrace my journey and growth as an artist.

Stars Aligned: I created this during a challenging time globally, channeling emotions into my craft. Rearranging motifs and mixing colors helped me process and find peace.

When you're in the creative flow, how do you approach a new project? Do you have any rituals or habits that help you focus and nurture your ideas?

Traveling inspires me. My artworks often come from places I’ve visited. When facing creative blocks, I step away, breathe, and trust that inspiration will come naturally. Creativity flows best when we stop trying to control it.

You spoke about capturing balance in life through your art. How do you incorporate this philosophy into your daily life and creative practice?

Balance is something I actively seek, not just in my art but in how I live...

Thank you, Shan Shan, for sharing your personal approach to art and how it reflects the beauty in everyday moments. If her work resonated with you, explore her creations with us here!