Meet Ching Chung | Digital Artist:
Illustrator, Lettering Artist & Pattern Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ching Chung and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ching, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
I’d say that over the years, I’ve learned to lean into my curiosity and just see where it leads. While I’ve always been someone who carefully weighs decisions, there have been pivotal moments—ones that others may have considered bold or risky—where I simply followed a strong inner pull. And, more often than not, those decisions proved to be the most rewarding.
One of the most defining risks I took was relocating from Ohio to Seattle. I left behind everything familiar—friends, family, and a steady job—during a recession. But I followed what felt right for my career and personal growth. The transition was tough at first, but I took it one day at a time. Over the course of two years, I built a new life in a new city, formed deep friendships with what we affectionately called our “urban family,” and found my place working on incredible design projects for boutiques and department stores. It gave me the chance to grow technically and interpersonally, learning how to communicate across cultures and collaborate toward a shared vision.
Another unexpected lesson in risk came through nature—specifically, a snowshoeing and winter survival class I took with a friend. I never imagined I could navigate snowy backcountry terrain, use an ice axe for self-arrest, or build and sleep in an igloo. It was exhilarating, challenging, and profoundly empowering. That experience taught me that when you equip yourself with the right knowledge and tools, even the most intimidating environments can become spaces for joy and growth. Returning to the design office after those outdoor adventures, everything felt brighter and more manageable. Risk, I realized, wasn’t just something to be faced—it was something to be embraced.
Eventually, I came to another major crossroads: after many fulfilling years in the Pacific Northwest, I made the decision to return to southwest Ohio. My father had passed, and I felt time with family was too precious to continue seeing them just once or twice a year. It wasn’t easy to leave a city I loved and a network I had built, but I knew in my heart it was time to return and reconnect with my roots. Now, I’m rediscovering the rhythms of slow living and rebuilding a creative life in the place where it all began.
To me, risk-taking isn’t just about bold leaps—it’s the natural rhythm of life. It’s a cadence of decisions, big and small, guided by curiosity, instinct, and what feels right in the moment. Looking back, I realize I wasn’t chasing risk—I was simply listening closely to what was calling me forward.
As someone once said—maybe it was Picasso or Da Vinci—we are all beginners, learning anew each day. That mindset keeps me open, grounded, and excited for what’s to come.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My artwork often leans toward bold, joyful colors and high contrast. I love creating pieces that feel whimsical, graphic, and full of energy—frequently drawing from florals, nature, organic shapes, and abstract forms. I also enjoy weaving in small quotes or messages using hand lettering and custom fonts that reflect the mood of each piece.
My style continues to evolve. I work within structured formats—like squares or tiles—while translating ideas into digital illustrations. I’m deeply inspired by the everyday beauty in the world around me. Sometimes it’s just a walk through a quiet park, a patch of grass, or a blooming flower that sparks a creative thread. These moments accumulate and later show up in my art as patterns, sketches, or full compositions.
Professionally, I studied art and design with a focus on interior design, product design, and graphic design. I spent years in the specialty retail sector, designing spaces that were both functional and artful—places that felt like home but also encouraged exploration. I’ve collaborated with artists, craftsmen, and construction teams to bring my 2D sketches and ideas to life in 3D environments, from furniture design and lighting design to 3D sculpture art, store visual merchandising, and store layout design.
I also worked in the aviation industry, which added a new layer to my design experience. Designing for aircraft interiors brought together storytelling, safety, customer experience, and branding—all in one space. Traveling internationally in that role taught me to think on my feet, adapt quickly, and appreciate cultural nuance. Each place I visited expanded my perspective, adding to the textures and colors I carry into my artwork today.
What I want the world to know about me—and my creative brand—is that everything I create is rooted in lived experience. My art is shaped by the beauty I notice in the everyday, my curiosity, and the desire to bring joy, reflection, and a sense of wonder to others. It’s my way of translating the world around me through the filter of a creative life.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
While I usually lean toward quiet days, when friends come to visit, I love sharing some of my favorite hidden gems in and around Dayton. Whether you’re drawn to nature, creativity, cozy cafés, or curated shops, there’s something magical about exploring these local treasures.

For the Foodies & Flavor Seekers
Start the day with delicious croissants from Val’s Dayton- flaky, rich, and made with love. If you’re visiting over the weekend, be sure to stop by the 2nd Street Market (open Friday to Sunday) to browse fresh produce, artisan goods, and grab a loaf of sourdough from Good Hands Bread Co..
For dinner, Silos offers flavorful dishes in a stylish, eclectic food hall—think converted container bins, art murals, and funky vibes. And don’t miss Meadowlark for a cozy, sit-down meal. Perfect for celebrating something special or just treating yourself.

For History & Local Culture Lovers
Gather Dayton is a well-designed and inviting coffee shop by day and restaurant by night—great for lingering conversations and local flair. Afterward, wander through the historic Dayton Arcade, a stunning architectural gem reflecting the city’s rich past and vibrant rebirth. The space alone is worth a visit for history lovers and design enthusiasts alike.

For Nature Seekers & Garden Explorers
A peaceful walk at Cox Arboretum is always refreshing, with woodland trails, water features, and a treehouse climb offering scenic views.
Among my favorite garden centers:
* Spring Gardens Plant Farm feels like a secret garden, tucked down a long driveway with a charming barn and a curated selection of native plants.
* Grandma’s Gardens delights with stunning container arrangements, outdoor fountains, and a gift shop full of indoor plant inspiration.
* Inspired Gardens is a hidden gem on a family farm filled with whimsical succulents, local artist-made gifts, and a vibrant sticker collection. It’s playful, cozy, and completely unique.

For Art & Animal Lovers
Front Street is one of the region’s largest and most active artist communities. Monthly open studio events let you explore murals, galleries, and meet artists in action—it’s the creative heartbeat of Dayton.
And for something sweet and unexpected, Gem City Catfé combines great coffee with adoptable feline friends. It’s a cozy, heartwarming space that supports a good cause and is always a joy to visit.

https://www.instagram.com/valsdayton/
https://www.yelp.com/biz/2nd-street-market-dayton
https://www.goodhandsbreadco.com/
https://www.silosdayton.com/
https://meadowlarkrestaurant.com/
https://gatherdyt.com/
https://www.arcadedayton.com/
https://www.destinationdayton.org/cox-arboretum/
https://www.facebook.com/SpringGardensPlantFarm
https://www.facebook.com/GrandmasGardens
https://www.facebook.com/IGCincy
https://frontstreet.art/
https://www.gemcitycatfe.com/

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First, a big hug and thank you to my mom—she’s always ready to cheer me on, even if she doesn’t totally understand all the details. Her constant support and genuine joy in my creative path mean everything to me.
Also a huge shoutout to my friend Romi, who’s there through all of it—good days, off days, and everything in between. Her “you got this” energy is everything. And to Sheryl, who helped me through some tough moments and reminded me how to fully show up for myself—thank you for that grounding.
To my sisters, Vui and Pei Pei, and my brother-in-law, Doug—thank you for the thoughtful support in ways both big and small. From commissioning custom work to helping with studio and gallery opening setups, to creating my first link-in-bio, your behind-the-scenes encouragement makes such a difference. I feel it all.
I also know my dad is cheering me on from the other side—his quiet strength and belief in me still guide me.
As for inspiration, I’m constantly pulled in by history, beauty, and great design—from the elegance of French palaces and European castles to the clean lines of Bauhaus, the whimsy of Magritte, the softness of Monet, and the flowing beauty of Art Nouveau. That mix of old-world charm and visual storytelling is inspiration gold.
And then there’s nature, always—flora and fauna, funny cats, baby penguins, and all the little details in the world that spark joy.
And finally, to the creative community—the artists, designers, mentors, collaborators, and kindred spirits—thank you. To those who have encouraged, challenged, or simply seen me along the way: your support has meant everything. I’m so grateful to walk this path with you. Thank you for making the journey feel a little less lonely and a lot more magical.

Website: https://lnk.bio/chingchungart

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chingchungart/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chingchung

Other: https://www.spoonflower.com/profiles/chingchungart