I Am An Artist: Jinny Ly

Jinny Ly is a Teochew-American fiber artist and illustrator, born and raised in Oakland, California. She spent most of her time in Oakland’s Chinatown where her refugee family and other Boat People planted roots after fleeing the Vietnam War. Growing up, she picked up domestic arts from her matriarchal figures -- learning crochet from Great Grandma, knitting from Grandma, and embroidery from Mom. Curious and eager to learn, Jinny went on to study illustrations and textile art at San Jose State University (San Jose, California) and received her B.A. in Studio Art in 2009. She studied under international fiber artist, Consuelo Jimenez Underwood, who remains an inspiration and mentor to this day. For Jinny, working with textiles transcends time -- allowing her to connect with her ancestors, their boat stories, inspiration, and insight. She'll be heading to Dublin, Ireland in the autumn of 2020 to pursue her Masters in Fine Arts at Dublin's National College of Art and Design.

What are you eating for comfort these days?

Walnuts and M&Ms.

What are you binge watching/reading? playing on repeat?

Been watching the Marvel movies in order and listening to the Guardians of the Galaxy soundtrack.

What was the last song you had stuck in your head?

The song that Uncle Iroh sings in Avatar the Last Air Bender.

What is your favorite unpopular opinion?

The "L" in salmon should be pronounced.

What was the last thing that made you smile or laugh?

Talking to my friend in Ireland :)

Is there anything else you'd like to tell our readers?

It's never too late to be curious.