Sleep Creatures: Tui McInnes

Tui McInnes is an artist using colour to create creatures that belong in the sleep paralysis dimension. We had a chat with the non-binary artist, who recently completed a New Zealand Certificate in Creativity (Level 4).

Kia ora Tui. Let’s get to know you, describe yourself as an artist.

Tui McInnes, 21, non-binary person, studied at The Learning Connexion in terms 3 and 4 2022. Tangata whenua whapapa to Nagti maniapoto and nga puhi.

I am an artist with an interest in painting, photography and garmentry. I really enjoy playing with colour and creating creatures that belong in the sleep paralysis dimension.

Do you have a project you are currently working on?

At the moment I am working on creating designs and samples for a recycled clothing brand.

What are some of the things you enjoyed most about studying at TLC?

The best thing that came from studying at TLC for me, was meeting other people with creative interests and being in such a supportive environment which really cemented the idea of art being a feasible career path for me.

How do you sustain your creative practice and where do you draw inspiration from?

I quite literally find inspiration in everything. I've been creative since I was very young and it has become a ritual for me to process my experiences through artistic expression.

An endless source of inspiration is other artists and authors. Nature is another one.

Why did you decide to enrol at TLC?

I enrolled at TLC as I had heard really positive things about the school from friends. It was a great decision to enrol, as I feel very supported in my artistic endeavors and it is always inspirational to be around other creatives.

What advice would you give people starting out at TLC and wanting to pursue a creative pathway?

The advice I would give to people wanting to pursue a creative pathway is #YOLO, you quite literally only live once and you might as well spend it doing what you love.

What are your creative ambitions? Where would you like to be in 5 years?

My ambitions for the future are to be able to run workshops on upcycling and recycling materials into unique pieces of clothing, art and furniture. And having a shared studio space with other creatives.

Ready to create your own creatures? Enrol today at The Learning Connexion - study onsite or from home.