hello.
My name is Aliszarah Belle Lai. But please, call me “Ali”.
"Incomparable; one that possesses the ability to achieve what may seem impossible." This is the meaning bestowed upon me when my mother created the name 'Aliszarah' (Al-eh-ZAR-uh).
I am a young woman in my twenties, with the ambition and aspiration to accomplish great things. You may call me a practitioner of many crafts. But in truth, I am an artist above all else with a mission to inspire and revolutionize. My work embodies the essence of humanity; experiences, emotions, psychology, philosophy, and the fantasies one can only wish were real.
To gain a better understanding of the human mind and soul, I enjoy exploring the world. Beyond traveling or cultural knowledge, I find myself diving of our societal hierarchy and the varying personas within our ranks. My belief is that adventure lies at the foot of our door and can be found even in the most mundane of situations.
creative direction
illustration
character design
video/animation
fine dining
education
Kean University
William Livingston - Full Ride Scholar
Bachelor of Fine Arts
Class of 2024
My college experience began September 2020, when Covid-19 heavily impacted our world. Nevertheless, I pushed forward in my education, and now anticipate the conclusion of my academic journey in may 2024.
Upon my acceptance at Kean University, I was honored with the William Livingston Scholarshipーa merit-based scholarship that covers full tuition for any full-time bachelor’s degree program. This award was given based on my national standardized testing scores, and overall academic excellence during high school. over the last four years, I have consistently been appointed to the Dean's List of the College of Liberal Arts for superior academic achievement.
art & affiliations
Kean Aesthetics: Vice President [2023-2024]
Social Media Management
Creator content
Digital Media Art
Gallery Curation
There has never been a moment in my life where art and creation were not a part of me.
From early childhood, my greatest source of inspiration was cartoon television. From early 21st century cartoons, to modern Japanese anime, I was fascinated with the notions of video art, character/costume design, 2D animation, storyboards, and concept illustration. As the digital era advanced, social media platforms and creator content also became an area of interest [i.e. Youtube videos, thumbnail illustration, account management and design].
My social media focuses on digital media and fanart, currently amassing over 15,000 followers on Youtube, Instagram, and TikTok. In addition, my professional experience in photography, digital media and traditional art have led to my position as Vice President of Kean University’s Aesthetics Club. During my time as their leader, I have successfully directed numerous photoshoots, supervised creative events, conducted board and member meetings, and managed the club’s social media. Today, this newly found organization has amassed approximately 300 followers and members.
Currently, I am advancing in my journey as a leader and creator in the arts industry. I will stand as the creative director of a new company or organization, and further drive the business and its members to economic and visionary success in this new era and generation.
employment
captain in upscale & fine dining
front-of-house management
3+ years in service & hospitality