Today we’d like to introduce you to Doris Lu.
Doris, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I lived in NYC for ten years before moving down to Dallas. I used to work at Ralph Lauren as a fashion designer for almost five years before I took on my own venture. I always have had a strong passion for illustrating and graphic design, and when I came across antique military pins and badges, I knew right away that they were the medium for my art. I quit my job in Oct 2016 and spent six months in Asia traveling and searching for the most suitable factory to produce high-quality hard enamel pins that meets my standards. (Yes, I’m spoiled by Ralph Lauren! haha) In June 2016, Dorrarium was launched. Dorrarium is inspired by the concept of a terrarium- but with pins! We are bringing a playful and art-filled lifestyle for everyone to enjoy!
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
I design enamel pins! My debut collection in fall 2016 was inspired by vintage military pins- most of my designs in that collection are framed with the classic military pin shapes (but with a twist of course). It was a very serious collection. My later collections became more playful and fun- I love to draw animals and play with words.
“Expect the unexpected” is what I always have in mind when illustrating designs. I like mixing objects that are not related or expected, and I want the person who wears my pins to interpret the stories of the art themselves. Because when you are wearing my art, it belongs to you, not to me!
How do you think about success, as an artist, and what do quality do you feel is most helpful?
Success is over 300 likes on Instagram. Just kidding (sort of). I’m successful as an artist when I hear and see people loving my designs. When I’m at a market, and a customer just can’t decide because “they want everything,” I’ve done my job!
What characteristic is essential to success as an artist? Foremost, you have to be different. If you’re the same as everyone else, you’ll never get noticed. It’s hard, but you need it. You have to have a niche, understand your audience, and you also need to pair design sensibilities with a commitment to business management.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
We are an e-commerce company! Most of our work and updates are posted on our Instagram- @Dorrarium. All our pins are listed on our website – www.Dorrarium.com and on our Amazon store. We started attending various local art markets in Dallas last year! You can see my work in person at the markets as well!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.Dorrarium.com
- Email: hello@dorrarium.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dorrarium
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dorrarium
Image Credit:
Doris Lu
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