COVID-19 changed many lives, and this was no exception for Geoy May Li, who was prompted to start a new career – in journaling! We ask her about painting in Singapore and where where she finds her inspiration for these journal book covers. Read on to learn about the power of embracing journal ideas and why it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your family.
l am a third-generation Singaporean living in the eastern side of Singapore, very close to the original “kampong” I grew up in. My hubby and I have three kids: our youngest is 12 and the other two are in their 20s. Our outdoor kitchen is the place we love the most at home because of the wonderful memories we have of whipping up delicious meals together.
When did you start your own business?
I left the corporate space in my early 40s to focus on raising my kids while running my own boutique consulting outfit. I did this for 10 years until the pandemic struck, and that’s when I got into painting.
As an untrained artist who dabbled in art jams and painting in Singapore, I decided during COVID to channel my longing for travel and the beauty of the world into one piece of art per week. Little did I know that this would leave me with a treasure trove of artwork with the potential to become special journal ideas.
It really wasn’t a deliberate plan to start my business GML Gallery. It just happened when I decided to turn my paintings into journal book covers. Being a fan of journals, this idea felt almost like a natural progression!
Why is combining art and journaling important to you?
Journaling has been an important part of my life since I was a teenager. It provided me a sanctuary where I could pour my thoughts out, reflect on events, and make sense of the world around me. Journaling also helped me discover the power of gratitude and how to use my inner strength.
What were the challenges of starting a new business?
Funnily enough, the doubts and challenges that come along with creating a brand-new business did not hit me for three months. I was fearless from the conception of the journal idea, to the creation of the products and launching them. It was really when things got quiet after my first launch that the self doubt and uncertainty about the road ahead really set in.
I wasn’t quite prepared for the magnitude of challenges I would have to deal with head-on. These included everything from painting to journal book production and then delivery. Plus simultaneously learning about the digital space and content creation – which was totally uncharted territory for me.
What have you learnt about yourself?
I’ve discovered that I have the power to triumph over my own barriers. As someone who once stood clueless in the realm of digital media, I have managed to construct my own website, and delved into crafting captivating content on social media.
I have definitely literally explored outside my comfort zone. For example, sharing my artworks and journal ideas with strangers. I even tried publicly painting in Singapore at a recent Mother’s Day pop-up!
What does a typical day look like for you?
The rhythm of my typical working day is a bit quirky. I like to manage my tasks over a week so I can balance my creative work. During the week, I go on school runs, make connections with business partners, and manage ongoing consulting projects. All of this whilst not forgetting time for my favourite escape – painting.
Outside of work, I like to meditate, go on brisk walks, watch my favourite shows on Netflix and catch up with family and friends.
Do you have a particular home décor style?
Growing up in a Chinese household in Singapore, our upbringing was influenced by many cultures within Southeast Asia. I love the harmony between cultures in design, so I am drawn to Chinoiserie – a fusion of Chinese and Western aesthetics.
My travels and reading have significantly opened my eyes to the beautiful contrast between Chinese art within a Western interior. I love Chinese art pieces that adorn the walls of a modern home in the form of intricate wallpapers and timeless furniture.
That being said, only my bedroom is Chinoiserie-style – it features a gorgeous wallpaper. The rest of my home is a cosy combination of cottage and Scandinavian styles. And, of course, my paintings provide a pop of colour throughout the house.
What are you looking forward to most over the next year?
I am excited to grow GML Gallery and to launch our first series, “Singapore Collections”. These journal books feature artworks that highlight stories of the uniqueness of Singapore through my artistic perspective. I’m also very excited to launch lampshades wrapped in my original artwork inspired by painting in Singapore. On a personal level, with travel resuming in full swing, I’m looking forward to exploring more new destinations, places and cultures.
Quick questions about Singapore: what is your favourite …
Casual restaurant? Megumi Japanese Restaurant
Date-night restaurant? Porta-Porta Italian and UNA at the Alkaff Mansion
Local food? Laksa
Nature space? Parks along the East Coast Park connector
Things to do with visitors? Taking them to explore Joo Chiat and Changi Beach
Nearby holiday destination? Hanoi and Danang, Vietnam
Enjoyed reading about how a love of journaling and painting in Singapore turned into fabulous journal ideas? Find more stories like this in our Living Here page.
