Mayumi Haryoto didn’t start out as an illustrator. In fact, she did pretty much everything but – from game development to graphic design to advertising – until 2006, when she realized that all she really wanted to do was draw. So, she quit her job and took a leap of faith and committed herself to a career as a full-time illustrator. On her choice, she says, “There are always upsides and downsides in every profession you choose, so why not choose the one you’re most passionate about?”

The Jakarta-based illustrator’s leap of faith was well worth the gamble, as she’s won a number of awards and commissions for her beautiful surreally whimsical illustrations. Her twitter feed is a great place to check out her quick-witted and funny personality as she navigates her career and shares things that catch her eye and imagination.

For a fantastic interview, visit Texture Culture.