Through her traveling life as a fashion and commercial model, Yunn Ru has explored a broad range of emotions through different materials and mediums. Self-taught, Yunn Ru began painting as a means of dealing with loneliness and self-communication.
Yunn loves experimenting all type of mediums and techniques. Interested in figures creation and sensation, she brings her own style where emphasis is placed on colours and strokes. Her works combines expressionism and abstract elements. Traveling has broadened her horizons and elevated her view with a different eyes, it is also a key influence on her art. Parlour X in collaboration with Carte Sydney & Live in Art Sydney, shoot Yunn for X Files, where we ask about her career to date & styling suggestions.
Yunn wears the Balenciaga Logo Crewneck Knit in Yellow, Lasered Logo Denim Mini Skirt in Dark Blue and Fine Check Hourglass Blazer from Parlour X.
From the beginning, tell us more about yourself? You have many interesting passions which have led to successful careers, from modelling, to being an artist.
I’m a sensitive kind of person. Often I find it more comfortable to express myself through a different medium. I spent my childhood performing on stage singing and dancing, which really helped me through my career. I’ve always seen modelling as a form of performing arts, which is another language. As a model I play a role of a blank canvas working with the creator, and the other way round as an artist.
Yunn wears: Jil Sander Maxi Shirt Dress and Cage Sandal from Parlour X.
Describe your early years, your modelling career and how you started painting?
Modelling had never came across my mind growing up because I came from a small town. But it was an interesting experience which moulded me into who I’m today. I started working as a part time model when I first moved to Kuala Lumpur for my tertiary studies. I was fortunate enough to travel around the world working as a full time model for the past 10 years. During those nomad years, I began to paint again as a way of dealing with loneliness and self-communication.
Yunn wears: Chufy Nele Blouse and Dara Maxi Skirt from Parlour X.
Your different passions and careers all have something in common,… creativity, how do you stay creative and where does your inspiration come from?
I find my inspiration can emerge from anywhere, from the interpersonal connections of daily life to the observation of organic lines and textures that represent the signature of all things.
Do you think art was always your calling? When did you first start creating and painting?
I have always use art as an outlet to explore the different facets of my personality. I’ve been doing that since I was a kid.
Yunn wears: the Valentino Tropical Print T-Shirt and Tropical Print Cropped Pants from Parlour X.
Talk us through your creative style and any projects / exhibition coming up?
I love experimenting different types of mediums and techniques. My works combines expressionism and abstract elements where emphasis is placed on colours. There’s an upcoming group exhibition at Live In Art Gallery end of this March and I’m glad to be part of it.
How do you find the happy medium between creativity and commerciality with your art? Is this something you think about when creating?
Yes. Most of the time when inspiration kicks in I’d just let it flow. If it’s something that needs to be created with intention, I will do my research beforehand.
Yunn wears: Jil Sander Embroidered Lace Dress and the Valentino V Ring Elastic Ruched Belt from Parlour X.
Has there been a favourite moment in your career to date?
From the moment I started modelling until today, every stage of my career has been very memorable. I witnessed my own growth and I sincerely cherished all the opportunities given to me. It’s priceless.
What’s your favourite Parlour X brands? Describe your personal style? What’s the stable pieces in your wardrobe?
Jil Sander and Maison Margiela. I always love a minimal approach and appreciate vintage pieces as well. A white shirt for sure.
Follow Yunn Ru on Instagram @YunnRuru. Images: @Martea_Photo, H&MU: @VickyChenStudio.
