Tell us a bit about yourself and your journey as an artist.
My name is Kaira Peña, and I’m an elementary school teacher who loves art! My family migrated to Canada from the Philippines in 2008, and I proudly identify as Filipino-Canadian.
Although I don’t have a formal art education background, I’ve always been inspired by the artists around me. Creativity runs in my family—my dad was a college professor in the Philippines who taught photography, my eldest sister is a self-taught calligraphy and letterpress artist, and my youngest sister expresses her creativity through baking pastries.
When I started teaching eight years ago, I quickly noticed that although art is included in the BC curriculum, it isn’t always prioritized in classrooms. I made it my mission to show my students that art is important by carving out time throughout the year for creative projects. I also began following art teachers on Instagram to gather lesson inspiration and adapt their ideas to fit my needs.
I love both teaching and art, but I realized many kids had a fixed mindset, believing you’re either “good at art” or you’re not. As I worked on encouraging a growth mindset in my students, I also wanted to explore teaching adults. When VS Creative Lab opened in the spring of 2024, I took the opportunity to hold my first art workshops for adults—a new and exciting step for me.
What sparked your interest and led you to pursue your artistic outlets?
In addition to creating art lessons for my classroom, last summer I had the opportunity to help paint a mural with local Vancouver artist Mar Cortez. At the time, I was taking multiple courses to upgrade my teaching degree and desperately needed a creative break.
After a few sessions painting Mar’s mural along Fraser Street, I realized how much I loved the idea of contributing creatively to my community. It felt powerful to leave a beautiful mark on the city I call home. Fast forward to this summer, and Mar offered me the chance to paint my very first mural under the Reframing South Vancouver initiative—and I took it!
Artistic Inspiration
Who or what influences your artistry the most?
I love being outdoors, so I’m always inspired by nature. From vibrant flowers to moody skies to lush greenery, the natural world offers endless inspiration for my color palettes and ideas. I’m also inspired by Filipino culture—its bright colors, festive energy, and strong sense of community.
Beyond nature and culture, I’m continuously motivated by the people around me—especially my students. Watching them create without fear or hesitation reminds me to approach my own art with the same freedom and joy.
Creative Process
Can you walk us through your creative process?
My process usually starts with a feeling or an image that I can’t get out of my mind. I might see a color combination while on a walk, or I might remember a pattern from a traditional Filipino fabric. I take quick notes or snapshots on my phone when inspiration strikes.
From there, I sketch rough ideas in a notebook. I like to leave room for flexibility because sometimes the project evolves as I work. If it’s a mural or a bigger piece, I create a more detailed plan, including color schemes and layouts, especially if I’m collaborating with others or working within community guidelines.
When it’s time to actually create, I focus on enjoying the process. I play music, give myself time, and allow mistakes to happen. I truly believe that art should be fun and freeing, not stressful or rigid.
Challenges and Growth
What challenges have you faced as an artist, and how have you overcome them?
One of my biggest challenges has been overcoming imposter syndrome—feeling like I wasn’t “qualified” enough to call myself an artist because I didn’t have a formal degree in art. It’s easy to compare yourself to others who have more experience or professional training.
I’ve overcome that by shifting my mindset. I realized that being an artist isn’t about degrees or exhibitions—it’s about creating, sharing, and connecting through art. Every piece I create, every workshop I teach, and every mural I paint is a step forward. And that’s enough.
Another challenge is simply finding the time. Being a full-time teacher can be exhausting, so I’ve learned to intentionally carve out creative time for myself, even if it’s just an hour after work or a weekend afternoon.
Highlights and Achievements
What has been a highlight or proudest moment in your artistic journey so far?
Painting my first mural this summer has definitely been one of the biggest highlights! It was such an empowering experience to see my work on a public wall in my own community.
Knowing that people—especially kids and families—walk by it every day and see something colorful and joyful makes me so proud. It was also meaningful because it combined so many things I care about: community, creativity, and cultural representation.
Hosting my first art workshops for adults was another proud moment. It showed me that it’s never too late to try something new or to expand the ways you share your passion with others.
Looking Ahead
What are your goals or hopes for the future of your art career?
I would love to continue working on community art projects—especially more murals! I want to explore themes around Filipino identity, nature, and belonging through large-scale pieces that bring color and joy to public spaces.
I also hope to host more workshops, both for kids and adults, helping people tap into their own creativity without fear or judgment. Long-term, I dream about creating a series of workshops that blend art, mindfulness, and cultural connection.
At the heart of it, I just want to keep making art that sparks joy—for myself and for the people who experience it.
Final Thoughts
Any advice you’d offer to aspiring artists?
Don’t wait for permission to call yourself an artist. If you create, you’re an artist. Surround yourself with inspiration, give yourself grace, and embrace the learning process.
Art is not about perfection; it’s about expression. Your unique voice and vision are valuable—so share them with the world.
