artwork by Kiran Patel/Illustrating Rain - www.cargocollective.com/illustratingrain
June Chanpoomidole
June Chanpoomidole is a freelance Illustrator currently living in a quaint village in Cheam. She studied Illustration at the University of Westminster, and found her love of acrylic paints and vibrant colour palette. Since then, her vibrant works is featured in numerous websites and publications such as the latest. Amelia’s Compendium of Fashion Illustration. She has illustrated Dan Crossley’s Future, ‘one where people realise what really matters (friends, family, community etc)… maybe like you would be forced to do if a meteorite was going to destroy earth in an hour’s time (like the blockbuster films) but without that really happening of course!’ and hopes her interpretation will make people think differently.
?!X: What’s the Future You Choose?
JC: The Future I choose is where one can safely express their opinions and strive to reach their goals in this life, without suppression, persecution nor fear. To finally accept each individuals has got a voice to communicate their views; whether it be verbally, written or visually. No one should ever suppress it.
?!X: What’s a ‘think’ to create this future?
?!X: What’s an ‘act’ to create the future you choose
JC: I will continue to create artwork that shows a window into these everyday stories and hopefully inspire someone. Also the simple act of listening and kindness is enough; and this story is an act of kindness I did, not long ago. I remember a woman sitting across me on the Metropolitan line on my way home during a night out. The woman had a phone call on her mobile. Slowly her brows pierced together as the telephone conversation continues. She quietly put the mobile away. I noticed she was crying, silently sobbing; her face was pained. I debated myself whether to do something; I looked around and no one noticed the woman’s distress. I took out a tissue packet out of my pocket and gave it to the woman. I asked her if she was all right. She nodded and said “Thanks.” I smiled at her, as she cushioned her head onto the seat of the Tube and dried her eyes. No words were exchanged until I got off at my stop. As I walked away from the Platform, glanced at her for a moment wondering if she’s all right. Then I smiled to myself hoping I had made her feel better. Being raised as a Buddhist household; the key principle is not only to be a good person but also be good onto others around us.
?!X: What’s a ‘vote’ to create the future you choose?
JC: Education is important, however I think more focus should be onto life skills in addition to academics. Such as learning to negotiate, debating using the English language (not with knives or guns) and also networking. Inspiring the others and realising their own potential must be a hardest task to do. I applaud the educators and teachers wholeheartedly. But I do think they do not have enough support. I think more investment should be made to Education with support structure of the community, parents, youth centres, local businesses and practices. With an open mind and time: provide hands on experience and advice readily available for everyone. Or at least give the opportunity to say their views and realise their potential. It is about working Smarter not Harder.
?!X: Future Soundtrack – What song would you take with you into the future?
JC: Cherry Ghost – People Help The People
Tan Dun and Yo Yo Ma- Farewell
?!X: Can you share with us up to 5 weblinks that you find interesting and inspiring?
JC:
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