When I first joined a Trial Academy course of Trial and Error Lab, I was hoping to perk up my personal brand – with a complete series of Makpei Leathercraft products. The course had greatly inspired me, and I then formally became a Lab fellow. I have gained much experience from it regarding product display, packaging and developing more types of product to create a complete series. In the past, I had enjoyed working alone at home but it was a far cry from the co-working space in the Lab, where I and other Lab fellows let our imagination run wild to come up with various ideas together. I greatly treasure this bunch of buddies who have chatted with me and shared our wildest dreams. I am going to use the experience gained and the foundation built in the Lab to continue to give it a shot in the cultural and creative field, and to manage my own brand.

Initially I joined the Lab just because I wanted to rent a venue. Who would have thought that during my stint in the Lab, I would have lots of chances to be groomed and try something new, such as putting up products for sale in Breakthrough Book Gallery, participating in an overseas exhibition for the first time and being interviewed by foreign media, etc.? I find that I have overcome many “impossibilities” and am gradually going along a path that can be further developed. What is more, my brand is becoming more mature in various aspects. I hope that everyone won’t be afraid of failures. As long as you are willing to try, you will certainly find a way out.

Ever since joining the Trial and Error Lab provided with my own workstation, I have undergone a series of transformation. By taking part in interviews, people around me have begun to empathize with my decision to switch my career, from being a social worker to being a part of the creative industry as an illustration artist. The experience in Lab has driven me to be more determined in developing my career as an illustration artist, and I have further applied for the Masters of Illustration Art Programme offered by a tertiary institution in England to enhance my skills and exposure in this area.

Trial and Error Lab does not only provide a physical workstation for me, but also an identity as a creative artist, and ample opportunities to try out various options. I have previously shut myself at home to focus at work, with an apparent lack of opportunities to reach out to others. Being a fellow of Lab, I am able to discuss and learn from other partners to gain more artistic inspirations and obtain invaluable advice.