Mimi Chao, an author and illustrator, is a former lawyer. Her journey of leaving a stable career in law to pursue an “authentic life” has resonated with many people. We asked her about what inspired her creative pursuits and the importance of being true to oneself.

――Could you tell us about your current main work or projects?

I am finishing up my new picture book, Treasure Everywhere, and developing an art series that shares mindfulness practices. My work is independently published through my studio Mimochai, which gives me a lot of freedom to experiment and express myself.

――It was a big career change for you, transitioning from a lawyer to an illustrator — what was the turning point or motivation for making that choice?

I realized the most important thing to me was to live a meaningful life—one that felt true to who I am. Up until then, I had followed the path I thought I “should” follow. When I finally reached the point that others called “success,” I found myself feeling empty. It’s not that being a lawyer is bad—it just wasn’t right for me. Choosing a more creative path was a leap of faith, but it was also the first time I felt truly free. I stopped following others’ voices and started listening to my own.

――What does drawing or writing in your notebook mean to you?

Drawing is both a creative and mindful practice for me. It helps me express how I see the world and brings me back to the present moment. While I mostly work digitally, I find keeping a paper sketchbook essential. There’s something irreplaceable about the tactile feeling of pen on paper—it feels grounded and permanent. It’s both challenging and calming at the same time.

――How did you first learn about the MD Notebook? And what is your favorite feature after actually using it?

I was already aware of the MD Notebook beforehand, but I completely fell in love with it during my trip to Japan in 2023. Since I hadn’t brought a sketchbook with me on the trip, I ended up buying an MD Notebook in Tokyo, and that’s how it all started. As I sketched my travel memories in the notebook, I used up the entire book in no time. I was so impressed that I immediately bought more upon returning to the States, and now it has become an indispensable sketchbook for me.
The paper itself is truly special. It has the perfect texture, and the ink shows beautifully on it. Even though the paper is thin, there is hardly any bleed-through. I can even use watercolors! I love that it’s high quality yet still comfortable to use without worrying about ruining it.
The size and design are also very appealing. The size is convenient for carrying around, and the simple, beautiful design seems to suit any style.

――Would you please introduce us to other tools you use when you create, besides your notebook?

For sketching, right now I mostly like to use drawing pencils and watercolors. I’ve been experimenting with making paints from natural earth pigments, and being more environmentally conscious about the source of my art materials. I appreciate that they all pair beautifully with MD PAPER. For digital work, I use Procreate on the iPad.

――Could you show us your studio, your workspace, and tell us about any favorite or special items you keep there?

My studio is filled with things that inspire me—mostly books, natural objects, and trinkets from my travels. I also keep a wooden Buddha statue and a small meditation space that brings me a lot of calm and joy.

――Your life itself has gone through many significant transitions (marriage, the birth of your child, living with your cute dogs, and more). Do you have any plans or new challenges you’d like to pursue?

One thing I’d love to do is share mindfulness practices through my artwork in a way that feels natural and accessible—for both kids and adults. I didn’t discover mindfulness meditation until later in life, and it ended up being a key part of my journey back to myself. These practices are quiet but powerful. I think they’re essential life skills. That’s why I became certified as a mindfulness meditation teacher, and now I’m slowly weaving those teachings into my creative work with Mimochai.