“A Day in the Life” with Vancouver artist Carolyn Wong

Seeing Carolyn Wong’s work is like being transported into a whimsical storybook featuring beautiful depictions of the Pacific Northwest. Her illustrations are colourful, bold and vibrant – and each aim to tell a story within the context of nature.

Originally from Toronto, Carolyn moved to Vancouver 2 years ago on a journey of self-discovery. Growing up with her in Toronto, I had always been inspired by her artistic abilities as we were immersed in arts education from childhood, however, it wasn’t until four years ago that she decided to pivot her life and pursue a full-time future in art. I watched as she settled into a teaching career in her early 20s, but still felt a calling to draw and paint in her spare time. This led her to look for avenues to discover and express herself, eventually coming to find a space where she flourished live-streaming her digital painting on Twitch. After moving to BC, there was a huge shift in her artwork, as she became inspired by the beauty in the nature around her.

Carolyn continues to evolve as an artist as she follows her artistic voice. She is currently focusing on murals and illustrations, while continuing to experiment with new mediums and subjects that speak to her.

-Jennifer Wong (sister)

I was so thrilled to work on my first mural this summer with the Vancouver Mural Festival! Painted this 8x30” panel in the River District!
I was so thrilled to work on my first mural this summer with the Vancouver Mural Festival! Painted this 8×30” panel in the River District!
Some of the coasters I make with my original artwork on them! I sell these on my website and on Etsy.
Some of the coasters I make with my original artwork on them! I sell these on my website and on Etsy.
Spots like this inspire me! I love discovering places like this on weekends with friends
Spots like this inspire me! I love discovering places like this on weekends with friends
Close up of me working on my latest Mural for the Vancouver Mural Festival
Close up of me working on my latest Mural for the Vancouver Mural Festival
My home studio set up with an amazing view!
My home studio set up with an amazing view!
The view from the top of Grouse Mountain made me fall in love with the Pacific Northwest!
The view from the top of Grouse Mountain made me fall in love with the Pacific Northwest!
One of my favourite things to do is participate in Art markets! This one took place in the heart of downtown on Granville St. & Helmcken St
One of my favourite things to do is participate in Art markets! This one took place in the heart of downtown on Granville St. & Helmcken St
Setting up at a local Art Gallery!
Setting up at a local Art Gallery!

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Which ‘hood are you in?

I currently live in Downtown Vancouver but moved here 2 years ago from Toronto! I love both cities but I have to say the Pacific Northwest has stolen my heart and I don’t think I’ll be moving back to the East Coast anytime soon!

What do you do?

I’m an artist, illustrator, small business owner, and aspiring muralist!

I love using watercolours and gouache as my main medium but I also work digitally. Most of my personal work is inspired by the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. My inspiration comes from quiet hikes through forests and discovering overlooked spaces in the wilderness.

For work, I take on a wide range of commissions and client projects. This includes anything from original paintings to branding materials, murals, book covers, and whatever interesting opportunity comes my way!

As a small business owner, I also am extremely fond of making one of a kind merchandise which I sell on my website and at local art markets and conventions. I love developing my own unique products and I’m most proud of my handmade coasters!

What are you currently working on?

At the moment, I’m working on my first Art book “UNSEEN, The Last Wilderness” which is all about exploring the wilderness that remains. In the story, the explorer encounters enlightening moments with nature as they venture into the deepest nooks and crannies of the forest at night. UNSEEN hopes to inspire a deeper appreciation for nature in the hope that we can build a better relationship with the remaining wilderness.

I’m also an aspiring muralist and I’m working on in-home and commercial projects. I hope to explore this avenue in the coming year!

Where can we find your work?

Please follow my work here:

Website | Instagram | Etsy