After more than a decade in finance, Candy Ng knew something was missing. Despite the stability and achievement her corporate career brought, she felt unfulfilled. It was a far cry from the joy she once found painting as a child in Hong Kong.

So in 2020, Ng began experimenting with creative pursuits. And by 2024, she left the corporate world behind to follow her passion for art full time. Now, Ng is building a thriving practice that blends fine art, live illustration and collaborations with international luxury brands like Prada, Celine, Porsche and Montblanc.

In this conversation with The CEO Magazine, she shares what it took to make the leap, the lessons she carried from finance to art and why she believes creativity has the power to connect humankind in profound ways.

You grew up in Hong Kong with a creative father – what role did those early influences play in shaping your artistic instincts?

Growing up, I remember going to art lessons and completely losing my sense of time. I was so absorbed in whatever I was painting. I also remember going to my father’s exhibition, where he won an award for his work. I would often create art with him. Even to this day, he continues his artwork.

Even with that natural creative flair, you chose a career in finance. What drew you to the corporate world initially?

Both my mom and dad were bankers, so finance felt like the safest route. It gave me the skill to manage my own finances while helping clients to manage theirs. I enjoyed sharing my knowledge and seeing people feel more confident in their financial choices.

From the outside, banking can look stable and successful, but you’ve spoken about feeling drained and unfulfilled. When did you realize something had to change?

Banking seems like a great career from the outside, but inside I felt drained and stuck. The more hours I spent at work each day, the more I realized I wasn’t spending time on things that matter to me. I realized life is short, and we have to start doing something for ourselves before it’s too late.

What was the turning point that gave you the courage to finally pursue your art more seriously?

I kept thinking about the idea of a ‘zone of genius.’ Creating always felt natural and effortless. I wondered what would happen if I put all my energy into that. That thought became the turning point. I think we all have that one thing that feels natural to us. The challenge is to believe and go for it.

Your first leap into creativity came in 2020 – what do you remember about those early days of offering live illustration, fine art and calligraphy?

At first, I wanted to try everything and see what was possible when I put my work out there. I posted a painting on Instagram and my ex-colleague bought it, saying it reminded him of freedom and happiness every time he walked past. That gave me more confidence to continue with this path, so I started looking for opportunities.

The first event I did, I painted live at a food court, and I loved it. Then one thing led to another, and my first brand activation event saw me illustrating Christmas-themed designs on gift boxes at Prada Boutique. It was a very exciting moment.

You briefly returned to finance before leaving it behind for good in 2024. What did that experience teach you about yourself and your priorities?

Keep your day job as long as you can is what I’ve learned. Initially, my art income wasn’t enough. Having a familiar job gave me stability and freedom to create while I built momentum on nights and weekends. It took four years to grow clients and referrals until the point that leaving corporate became inevitable.

Today, your work spans multiple streams. Let’s start with live events – how did you discover the niche of live illustration and calligraphy, and what makes it so special for luxury events?

Social media inspired me with other artists, showcasing what I had dreamed of. Luxury and art often go hand in hand – people who love fine things often appreciate creativity. The process of live art is quite memorable. Creating something in minutes as a gift often surprises the guests. It makes people curious and excited.

Can you share a particularly memorable live event you’ve illustrated, where you felt the power of capturing the moment in real time?

One event that I will never forget was sketching a woman at a brand activation. After I gave her the drawing, she told me her husband had recently passed away. It was the first time she had dressed up and attended something for herself. She said the portrait reminded her how strong she still was. That moment showed me how important it is to keep sharing my art as it connects people in ways that words can’t.

Alongside events, you also devote time to fine art in your studio. What inspires your still life oil paintings?

I enjoy capturing daily moments that I find beautiful. Painting is a way to relive joyful, quiet memories and milestones. Every time I paint, it takes me back to the place, people or feeling I want to hold onto.

Why is it important for you to celebrate ‘the simple, beautiful moments we often overlook’ through your art?

Life can be transient. We’re always busy with our schedules, and it’s hard to slow down, sit with our thoughts or admire the beauty around us. I think we all need a reminder to pause, and my art is one way of doing that.

You’ll also be exhibiting at the Inner West Art Fair this October. What excites you most about sharing your work in that setting?

I exhibited there last year and loved meeting art lovers. It’s exciting to talk about life and art with people who connect with the work. The fair has such an energetic, creative atmosphere – it’s inspiring to be part of it, and I’m delighted to be back this year, on 17–19 October 2025 at Williamstown Town Hall.

You’ve grown your practice rapidly in just a few years – from exhibitions to luxury brand collaborations. What has been the most surprising part of this journey so far?

I’m really happy with how far I’ve come, and it all started with saying yes to opportunities. Now, my dream has become a reality. To this day, I’m still very surprised to see my collectors resonate with my art and take them home. Nothing can feel more fulfilling than this.

Looking back, do you think your time in the corporate world gave you skills that now help you run your art business?

Absolutely. After more than 12 years in finance, I’m really good at managing money, which is essential in running a business. I learned how to price properly, value my time and creativity, market myself, manage clients’ expectations and build a client base from scratch. These professional skill sets are as important as my artistic skills.

Finally, what do you hope people feel when they encounter your art – whether it’s at a live event, in a gallery or on their wall at home?

I hope people feel happiness, comfort and inspiration. At a Christmas event, I gave a guest her portrait and immediately she had tears in her eyes. She said it had been a very hard year for her family and receiving the drawing meant so much. For me, that’s what art is about: sparking beautiful memories, emotions and reminding people of their own strength.