Meet New York and Manila-based illustrator, Gica Tam

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

My name is Gica, and I’m an illustrator, printmaker and graphic designer based between New York and Manila. My art explores themes of food, folktales and identity. When I’m not at my desk, I can be found baking, exploring or climbing mountains.

Describe the city you’re living in and what it’s like to live there.

I grew up in Metro Manila, specifically in Marikina City. It’s a city that is charming, environmentally conscious, and is a quiet safe haven for when the hustle and bustle of the capital becomes too much. Having lived in such fast-paced metropolitan cities like New York and Los Angeles, Marikina is a tranquil reminder to take things slow and live in the moment wherever I go.

I grew up in Metro Manila, specifically in Marikina City. It’s a city that is charming, environmentally conscious, and is a quiet safe haven for when the hustle and bustle of the capital becomes too much. Having lived in such fast-paced metropolitan cities like New York and Los Angeles, Marikina is a tranquil reminder to take things slow and live in the moment wherever I go.

What is the best and worst thing about living in your city?

The people and food are the best! There’s so much to learn from our community and how we can use our own unique skills to help make it better. I’ve moved a lot over the past six years, and everywhere I go, the art scenes are so different. It’s incredibly energizing to be surrounded by people with different creative practices, techniques and experiences. They can teach you so much about yourself and your work, as long as you’re willing and open to it.

I’m not a fan of the traffic, humidity and the cost of living.

Give us 3 words that describe what it’s like to be a creative in your city.

Vibrant, Energetic, Challenging

How did you start your career in art?

Drawing was my favorite pastime as a child, and I really can’t remember a time where I wasn’t making art. It wasn’t until I got to college though, that I realized that I could pursue art as a career. It’s been a ride, and I’m glad that, years later, I’m still on it!

Drawing was my favorite pastime as a child, and I really can’t remember a time where I wasn’t making art. It wasn’t until I got to college though, that I realized that I could pursue art as a career. It’s been a ride, and I’m glad that, years later, I’m still on it!

Were the people around you supportive of your decision on working as a creative?

I’m the only one who pursued a creative career in my entire family. Some were doubtful, though most were supportive. I’m also very lucky to have friends who believe so much in me! They keep me going.

What are some goals and ambitions you have for your future work?

Not my work per say, but bringing the work of Filipino creatives to the front is a goal for sure! There are so many passionate and incredible artists in the Philippines, and I want them to have the recognition they deserve!

Not my work per say, but bringing the work of Filipino creatives to the front is a goal for sure! There are so many passionate and incredible artists in the Philippines, and I want them to have the recognition they deserve!

If you could collaborate with any person in the world who would it be?

I listen to a lot of music when I illustrate. I’ve done a poster for Mitski, which was an absolute dream come true. I’d love to do that again and collaborate with my favorite artists!

What are the biggest challenges you face in working as a creative?

Being a freelance artist gives me so much freedom and flexibility, but it can also be very unstable and uncertain at times.

Powerful, incredibly compassionate, chaotic, and wow I just love all the women in my circle!

How would you describe the women around you?

Powerful, incredibly compassionate, chaotic, and wow I just love all the women in my circle!

Were there any local female creatives that you looked up to when you were growing up?

Mia Lagos! She’s my best friend since second grade and she’s a Partner and Creative Director at a design agency in Manila. She’s definitely one of the reasons why I wanted to be better at art!

Everyone has different starting points in life. It can stifle your creativity as an emerging artist if you compare yourself to someone who has less or more experience than you. Invest that energy into looking at your recent art and old art, and see how much you’ve grown!

Do you have any advice for other women who are aspiring to work in your field?

Everyone has different starting points in life. It can stifle your creativity as an emerging artist if you compare yourself to someone who has less or more experience than you. Invest that energy into looking at your recent art and old art, and see how much you’ve grown!

What type of music do you like to listen to?

I listen to different genres, but my go-tos are Dream Pop, Indie rock, Japanese City Pop and R&B.

What’s your favorite local food spot?

The Alley at Karrivin – One of my best friends used to work at Hydra Design Group, which is located here, and I used to visit her a lot. I would hang out and do my work at Poison Coffee & Doughnuts while waiting for her. The Mess Hall and Panaderya Toyo were also places we frequented there!

Gydient asks: How does art help you to live more mindfully?

Definitely! I love working with non-profit and advocacy-based organizations, as well as social enterprises that give back to the community.

Dariya Kanti asks: Would you call yourself a rebel?

My first act of rebellion was choosing to be an artist.

What question would you like us to ask the next artist?

What does an ideal day for you look like?

Photos courtesy of Gica Tam