It’s been a dream of mine to open a studio, and having worked in many studios over the years, it was time to create a beautiful space to call home.

The name ‘Kota’ comes from the Malay word for ‘City’. My mum is from Malaysia, and I wanted to have a Malay word for the studio, as well as homage to being in the Chinatown area of Vancouver which I love so dearly.

The word also often means ‘happiness’ and ‘peace’ in Japanese and ‘fortress’ in Telugu.

I want nothing more for this studio to be a fortress, a comfortable place for people to come and create, especially for women, LGBTQ+ and POC to feel safe and inspired.

I want Kota to create community and friendships and foster creative development.

Welcome to Kota Studios, I hope you enjoy your time here!