We’re thrilled to introduce Jessica Cao, a talented muralist and illustrator from the Bay Area. Whether through large-scale murals that transform spaces or intricate illustrations that bring everyday moments to life, Jessica’s artistic vision shines in every piece. Our latest socks collaboration with Jessica goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. Drawing from her family roots in China and her upbringing in San Jose, California, Jessica’s designs in our sock collection are deeply influenced by her heritage. Featuring elements like ceramic vases, koi fish, and rice fields, her artwork seamlessly blends tradition and family—core values that resonate deeply with Ohana Sunshine.

In this interview, Jessica shares her artistic process, her excitement about collaborating with Ohana Sunshine, and the deeper sense of purpose that drives her creativity. Let’s dive into her journey and discover the inspiring force behind this collaboration!

What sparked your interest in creating art, and how would you describe your artistic style?

Art is a way for me to challenge my limits. Murals are physically, emotionally, and logistically demanding, but it’s so rewarding and surreal to get to make my mark on an environment in such a massive way. To use a Runescape reference, I’ve been on Tutorial Island for the past few years just trying to get my technical skills up to a certain degree of competence. Recently, my attention is increasingly focused on how I can use my skills to enhance people’s lives, whether that be the experience they have dining at a restaurant with my work or a loving missive in the mail. My artistic style can be summed up in three words: energetic, weightless, and elegant.

 

Do you have any rituals or routines that help you get into a creative mindset?

To have the mental space to be creative, I first have to take care of my other needs: Making sure there’s food ready to go in the fridge. Moving my body in yoga, and spending time in nature.

If I drop those, my stress levels tend to rise. It’s also important to keep up a regular sketch routine so my eyes and hand stay well-oiled. By sitting with a subject, I am able to absorb imagery into my subconscious in a way that is more substantive than if I were to scroll quickly through Instagram or Pinterest.

 

What excited you the most about collaborating with Ohana Sunshine socks?

Ohana Sunshine socks are simply high quality socks. They’re cute and eye-catching but also highly functional: I can go for runs and hikes and my toes stay miraculously dry. KK (the founder) and I are both Asian woman entrepreneurs. I’m inspired by her perseverance, her resourcefulness, and her hustle in founding not one but two sock brands while also working as a designer. 

 

If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why? What do you find most rewarding about being an artist?

I would like to work with Guillermo del Toro on costumes and set design— he is known for his emotionally and thematically complex horror and fantasy films like Pan's Labyrinth, I’d love to dive into the worlds he creates.

The most rewarding part of being an artist is imagining something and bringing it into physical reality to share with others. It’s truly a wondrous and marvelous experience, and I don’t use those words lightly.

 

Is there anything else you’d like to share with the Ohana Sunshine community, and where can our followers connect with you online?

Do the work—it leads to believing in yourself. You can find more of my work and connect with me on Instagram @jessicao.studio.