From small-town Minnesota to the LA art scene, Jade Huynh’s creative journey is proof that passion has a way of finding you again. In celebration of AAPI Heritage Month, this Momma, I Made It features the San Fernando Valley-based origami artist sharing about creative pivots, trusting your instincts, and building a career that actually feels aligned.

‍

Jade first fell in love with origami in fourth grade, checking out every origami book the local public library had to offer. Before becoming a professional origami artist who has exhibited at several galleries, Jade studied interior design in Minneapolis and later spent years working as a pastry chef before realizing origami was what truly lit her up. Now, she turns folded paper into fine art (and even corsages and boutonnieres for Little Tokyo Prom) while encouraging young creatives to stop chasing validation and start creating for themselves. If you’re figuring out your next move, questioning a pivot, or trying to stay grounded in your creativity, this interview is for you.

‍

Follow Jade on Instagram at @jadehuynh08 and @svvan_origami. Check out her website, svvan.art. Also, vote for her: She’s a selected artist for The People’s Artist, presented by Johnny Depp!