EP 34 - "A Journey of Reinvention" | Andrew Wong | Paper Artist

Andrew Wong is a New Jersey-based paper artist originally from Hong Kong. Trained in fashion design at Parsons School of Design in New York and Paris, his creative path took a turn during the pandemic when he returned to art after years away. What began as handmade paper creations for his children evolved into 10past9, a practice rooted in quiet, late-night creativity.

To learn more about Andrew and follow his journey visit: www.10past9.com


Andrew Wong's journey is a powerful story of creative reinvention, tracing his path from fashion design to paper art. Overcoming cultural barriers and professional challenges, he discovered his true passion by embracing unexpected opportunities and staying curious. His story is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the transformative power of following one's creative instincts.

Powerful Quotes:
1. "Knowing why is going to keep you going."
2. "I wake up with joy every day and just eager to go back to the studio."
3. "You don't know that is your passion until you start making things."
4. "Sometimes you just go by without being present, just kind of passing by."

Key Lessons:
• Passion is discovered through action, not just thinking
• Personal purpose evolves across different life stages
• Creativity requires curiosity and observation
• Resilience means being open to reinvention
• Cultural experiences shape creative perspective

Inspirational Moments:
• Transforming cardboard boxes into art during the pandemic
• Moving from Hong Kong to the US and discovering creative possibilities
• Overcoming burnout in fashion design
• Finding artistic identity through paper art
• Embracing unexpected opportunities for personal growth

Transformational Insights:
• Slow down and be present in your creative journey
• Your creative path is not linear
• Personal challenges can become sources of artistic inspiration
• Understanding your "why" is more important than the "what"

Takeaways for Listeners:
• Start creating, even if you're unsure of the outcome
• Be patient with your creative process
• Explore different mediums and experiences
• Embrace uncertainty as an opportunity for growth