Meet Asia Ellington: Dapper Day queen, Artist, and an advocate for the community
All March long we've been highlighting Southeast Asian warriors and we couldn't forget about our amazing artist friend, Asia Ellington. She's a DISNEY Character Designer y'all! Plus, she's has impeccable vintage style. You'll be sure to spot her at Dapper Day in Disneyland every year (of course not when there is still a global pandemic going on).
We recently had the pleasure of talking with Asia on our IG Live: Snack + Chat. ICYMI, you can watch it here.
Asia Ellington is a Filipino/Italian/Latinx artist, born and raised in the Bay Area, California. She's currently based in Glendale, working at Disney Television Animation on The Wonderful World of Mickey Mouse, and other unannounced projects.
Check out her art and follow her journey:
Instagram/Twitter/Etsy - @asiadraws
Her favorite foods: Ginataang Hipon, Kare-Kare, Spicy Pork Bulgogi, Okonomiyaki
What inspired you to become an artist?
Art and drawing has been something I’ve always loved doing more than anything else. No matter any other interests, hobbies, or sports I picked up growing up, art was my one constant and what I naturally gravitated towards. Having other artists in my family and a collection of animated movies on repeat, inspired me to believe that a career in art was possible.
How do you want to see your art featured and what stories do you like to share through your art?
I’m a Character Designer, but I’m also open to any kind of project- whether it be in animation, book illustration, galleries, etc. I never want to limit myself in what I do, but I’m absolutely in love with what I get to do right now. I like working on stories that make me laugh, ones that test and challenge my creativity, and create characters that are diverse and complex. We are on the precipice of a time where so many backgrounds and cultures are starting to be told and lifted up more than ever, and I’d love to be able to not only share my unique experiences and stories but help others tell theirs too.
What is your favorite dish? Is there a story behind it?
Hands down, Ginataang Hipon! (Preferably with kabocha added) It’s my mom’s favorite too, so my grandma makes it for us often. It's also my go-to recipe when I’m away from home and need simple and easy comfort food. Amongst all of the cultures and cuisines that make me, Filipino food is one I hold closest to my heart.
What does courage mean to you?
To quote the late John Lewis "When you see something that is not right, not fair, not just, you have to speak up. You have to say something; you have to do something." That is courage to me. Beyond art, we all have a moral obligation to stand up and speak against things that aren’t right, and get in necessary “good trouble”. Art is just one way I can do that.
Where can we expect to see you in the next few years?
Still in animation, I hope, helping to tell many more fun and impactful stories!
Thank you so much Asia for sharing her story with us! Tuk Tuk Box is proud to exclusively feature Southeast Asian ingredients and include refugee, migrant, and generational stories in every box.
If you or someone you know wants to share their story with us, send us an email at hello@tuktukbox.com. Stay tuned for future stories and the newest products by subscribing to our email list serv.
