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From Medical Illustration to Laser-Cut Earrings: Angela Yeung’s Creative Journey

With a background in science and a master’s degree in Medical Art, Angela Yeung was thrilled to land a job as a medical illustrator. But even with a creative role in her 9-to-5, she found herself looking for new outlets to explore her artistic interests.

That search led her to Edinburgh Open Workshop, where she attended an induction and found herself drawn to one machine in particular: the laser cutter.

“In Asia, there are so many options for clip-on earrings, but I couldn’t find anything like that here,” Angela explains. “So when I saw that EOW offered a laser cutting course, I thought I’d give it a try – and maybe make my own.”

After completing the course, Angela felt confident enough to become a member and start using the machine independently.

“I love that EOW not only has the equipment, but also runs workshops and classes. It really supports people in bringing their creative ideas to life. And I never feel like I’m on my own – someone’s always around to help if I need it.”

Balancing her day job with her newfound passion, Angela began carving out small windows of time – just a couple of hours in the evenings – to work on earring designs. Before long, she’d made more than she could wear herself.

Encouraged by friends, she started submitting her designs to local shops, including Flamingosaurus Rex in Bruntsfield, and eventually took the leap into selling at markets.

“I’d visited one of the Makers Markets at EOW before joining, and I couldn’t believe that by last Christmas I was exhibiting my own work there. It felt so special to be able to create something in the space and then show it off in the same community.”

Angela will be returning for the Summer Makers Market on 5th July, and is also set to exhibit at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum on 28th June and the National Portrait Gallery on 9–10 August.

“It’s hard to predict how busy the markets will be or how much stock to prepare, but I love the experience. It’s time-consuming alongside a full-time job, but I get to funnel my creativity into something that brings me joy.”

Angela’s earrings – sold under the name Ear Lob – are made from acrylic, with each collection based on a theme close to her heart. Her creative process begins with research and sketching, which she refines in Illustrator before cutting and engraving at the workshop.

“My most recent collection was food-themed,” she laughs. “One of my favourite pieces is a paper bag with a croissant and a cinnamon roll in it. That’s exactly what I’d buy from a bakery.”

Her playful, colourful designs are a hit with young shoppers, while older customers are drawn in by her craftsmanship and bold aesthetics.

For now, Angela is happy to keep Ear Lob as a side hobby, enjoying the freedom to design what she loves without pressure.

“There’s less stress now that I’m not working to a supplier’s brief. I can just make what excites me. I’d also love to explore other ideas – woodworking, welding – anything where I can create with my hands. Imagine having a piece of furniture at home and being able to say, ‘I made that from scratch.’”

Whether it’s laser-cut earrings or handmade furniture in the future, Angela’s creative flair and curiosity are sure to shine through.

Come meet Angela and explore her vibrant jewellery collection at the Summer Makers Market on 5th July at Edinburgh Open Workshop. You might just leave inspired to start your own creative journey.

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