DESIGN STUDIO
About Us
Muse Design Studio is a creative space dedicated to nurturing artistic growth, imagination, and confidence. Our mission is not only to strengthen each student’s technical skills, but also to encourage curiosity, new ideas, and personal expression. We believe that strong foundations empower students to explore freely—and that creativity flourishes when guided with both structure and inspiration.
As art continues to evolve and merge with modern technologies, so do the ways we learn and create. At Muse, we help students navigate this exciting shift. Whether they are working traditionally or digitally, we teach them how to adapt, think critically, and approach new mediums with confidence.
Our goal is for every student to leave the studio with skills they can truly use—an understanding of artistic principles, a toolkit they can apply to any medium, and the courage to bring their own ideas to life. Muse is not just a place to learn; it’s a space to grow, explore, and build a creative future.
I’m Joan Lin—the founder of Muse Design Studio, where I’ve spent nearly a decade helping students discover their artistic voice and build portfolios with confidence, clarity, and heart. My background spans illustration, 2D animation, photography, and 3D lighting/FX, with formal training from the School of Visual Arts in New York and Vancouver Film School. These experiences shaped the way I teach: blending strong fundamentals with storytelling, design thinking, and real-world creative workflows.
At Muse, my role is to guide students through every part of the creative process—developing concepts, building skills, planning timelines, and preparing polished, compelling portfolios. I value communication, empathy, and structure; I want each student to feel supported, understood, and inspired, whether they’re applying to art school or exploring creative interests for the first time.
My teaching style is warm and collaborative. I listen closely, give clear and practical feedback, and help students grow at a pace that feels right for them. More than just creating strong portfolios, my goal is to help students build confidence, find joy in the creative process, and develop the visual storytelling skills they’ll carry throughout their careers.
Muse Design Studio is a space for growth, clarity, and creativity—and I’m grateful to be a part of each student’s journey.
Emily Hsu is an accomplished Chinese painting artist and photographer with years of experience in both creating and teaching traditional art. Formerly an instructor at Gou Yu Zhen Chinese Art Studio in Taiwan, she now teaches Chinese painting at the Langley Community Centre in Canada. Her artwork has been featured in multiple exhibitions across Taiwan and Canada, known for its refined brushwork and graceful, nature-inspired expression.
Outside the studio, Emily is also an active photographer. Her Instagram has grown into a visual journal where she captures daily beauty—landscapes, flowers, seasons, and the subtle details that inspire her painting practice. Her photography reflects the same sensitivity and elegance found in her brushwork, allowing viewers to see the world through her artistic eye.
Emily is known for her gentle, patient teaching style. With solid foundations and many years of experience, she guides each student with care, helping them build both skill and confidence in their artistic journey.