Jess Goh Wee Teng Crafts Joy Through Art, Connection, and Self-Expression
- Unique Wisdom
- May 31
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 9
Through her programs and workshops, Jess Goh invites others to reconnect with inner strength and self-compassion. Her journey is a reminder that resilience grows strongest when rooted in self expression.
Hello, everyone! I’m Jess Goh Wee Teng, a proud Singaporean with a passion for arts and crafts. For me, creativity is more than just a hobby—it’s a way of life that brings balance, mindfulness, and deeper connections.
Since 2017, I’ve been conducting workshops that focus on being present and fully engaged in the creative process.
My passion for sharing the joy of self-expression has also helped me further my career as a preschool music and movement educator, even propelling me to heights like being featured on a few episodes of the MediaCorp series Get Fit with Me! and participating in some art exhibitions.
Rediscovering Creativity as Sanctuary, Self-Expression, and Everyday Joy
Since childhood, I’ve always loved getting my hands messy with paints and crafts. There’s something magical about creating with my fingers. Although my school days were focused on Science, I found ways to weave creativity into my life whenever I could.
I remember building rickshaws from recycled materials for a history project in Secondary 2, shortening my school skirts for fun, making handmade bookmarks to welcome new Secondary 1 students to our CCA club, and designing festive displays for our CCA board—each project fueled my passion for creating.
Art and crafts took a backseat when I entered the working world, but they found their way back into my life when I became a stay-at-home mom. With my boys in their preschool years, we explored nature through tracing and leaf rubbings, splashed and doodled on the corridor floor, and dove into countless craft projects together.
Looking back, I realize that art and crafts never really left me—they were always there, waiting to be rediscovered.
In 2017, as my boys grew older, my creative journey truly flourished. I fell in love with using soft pastels, blending colors with my fingers as a way to relax and recharge. This passion led me to share my love for art through workshops, where I began guiding others in their creative journeys.
Soon after, I had the privilege of working with Craft Atelier, a craft studio in Singapore, facilitating craft sessions in schools and corporate offices. My craft repertoire expanded to include yarn and thread work, opening up a whole new world of creative possibilities.
One of my most cherished projects was the “Be Me!” series, which showcased a variety of art forms I enjoy. I’ve never been one to stick to just one medium—I love exploring different techniques and materials.
Right now, Sashiko and knitting have captured my heart, offering me a sense of calm and focus. More than just a hobby, the creative process is my sanctuary—it’s where I find freedom, presence, and self-expression. Whether I need to recharge or clear my mind, art and crafts are my go-to, grounding me and bringing joy into my everyday life.
Embracing Everyday Joy, Presence, and Connection Through Creative Living
Photo Credit: Jess Goh
To me, every day is a rainbow ride—filled with moments to cherish and lessons to learn. Creativity has taught me to slow down, be present, and find beauty in both the process and imperfections.
Sharing artistic moments with my boys—tracing leaves, splashing paint, and crafting together—reminds me that life’s most vibrant colors often come from simple joys and heartfelt connections. Through workshops and collaborations with Craft Atelier, I’ve seen firsthand how creativity sparks joy and brings people together.
My rainbow ride is about embracing who I am—an explorer of art, a lifelong learner, and someone who finds freedom and balance through creating.
Stepping Out with Courage and Finding Belonging Through Craft Community
Courage and Collective Strength are two qualities that have been instrumental on my rainbow ride.
Courage:
In 2018, when I decided to share my art through workshops, I needed a space to host them. I stumbled upon Craft Atelier’s studio, but it took me a while to gather the courage to step inside and ask about renting the space.
As someone naturally reserved, reaching out for help was far outside my comfort zone. But I reminded myself, “There’s nothing to lose, and the worst I could hear is a ‘No.’” Thankfully, I got a “Yes,” and that’s how my art and craft adventure began!
I’m glad I took the plunge instead of “siam-ing” (dodging) the opportunity. Embracing a “No try, no gain” mindset has helped me navigate challenges, knowing that every experience—good or bad—comes with something to learn.
Collective Strength:
I’m incredibly grateful for my group of craft kakis—like-minded friends who share my love for creativity. Whether we’re working on group projects, exploring new crafts, or just sitting together in comfortable silence while each of us focuses on our own piece, their presence brings me so much joy.
Finding Craft Atelier has been a blessing, too—they’ve built a welcoming craft community and created a space where I feel a true sense of belonging.
Letting Go of Comparison and Choosing Joy
I once came across a phrase that stuck with me: “Don’t measure yourself against anybody else. Just find your happy place!” It’s a reminder that life isn’t about comparison—it’s about discovering what brings you joy.
After all, you only die once, but you have countless opportunities to truly live.
Stay Connected
Connect with me on Instagram at @the_dancing_fingers or on Facebook at The Dancing Fingers to explore the transformative power of art and crafts!
