Cantika and the Beauty of Finding Your Own Rhythm
Some girls are loud about who they are. Abigail Cantika doesn’t need to be. There’s something about her presence that feels effortless in the way truly confident women often are: warm, self-aware, a little playful, and always composed. Whether she’s on stage, behind a mic, or casually sharing parts of her everyday life online, she moves with the kind of ease that can’t really be manufactured. The kind that makes people lean in a little closer.
Cantika is in a phase of simply enjoying life for what it is—messy, emotional, funny, creative, and still unfolding. Raised in Jakarta with a beautifully mixed heritage and an equally layered personality, she speaks about growth and connection with refreshing honesty. There’s no overly polished version of herself here, which might be exactly what makes her so compelling. Somewhere between wall climbing sessions, books, music, and life with her four dogs, Cantika reminds us that becoming yourself can look soft too.
Hi Cantika! Please tell us about yourself.
I’m this 32 year old woman that is enjoying her life so much. I’m the oldest child; I have 1 younger brother and 1 younger sister. Born and raised in this chaotic city, Jakarta. I’m a mix of Javanese, Ambonese, Makassar, Manadonese, and Chinese. I’d say I’m also a mix of creative and emotional lol..I love watching comedy shows, listening to music, making content, reading books, being active (going to the gym and wall climbing) and romanticizing my life a lil bit. I have 4 dogs and they’re like my kids, their names are Akiba, Cherie, Oreo and Casper. I care a lot about growth, real connections, and being genuine. Still figuring things out but enjoying the process.
What does a typical “creative day” look like for you lately?
A typical creative day for me is when I’m just living my daily life but staying open to seeing things from a different perspective. It’s those small shifts that make me appreciate life more and often spark ideas—I like to write them down, whether they turn into songs or something else later. I also try to be intentional with my time, setting space to do the things I genuinely enjoy. And naturally, I love documenting those moments and turning them into content—it’s like capturing little pieces of my life and giving them meaning.
When you’re working on music, what usually comes first: lyrics, melody, or mood?
For my solo music projects, I usually start with writing lyrics—just pouring everything in my head out first. After that, I look for music references that match the vibe, then brainstorm with my producer to make the music and melody together.
What’s a part of your job that people don’t usually see but means a lot to you?
A part of my work that really means a lot to me, but people don’t always see, is the energy that comes from working in entertainment industry—whether it’s music or content creation- that always brings a new sensation, new experience and new lessons. From the creative process to the result, it always brings a fresh breath into my life. Plus, I get to meet so many people behind the scenes who are very inspiring.
How do you stay inspired when everything starts to feel repetitive?
Honestly, I’m not always inspired. Right now, I’m in a phase where I don’t feel super inspired musically. But I’ve been finding that spark again through content creation and doing things outside of music. And somehow, I feel like you can get inspiration from anything - when there’s a deadline… inspiration always finds its way back.
How has your relationship with yourself changed since you first started putting your work out there?
I’ve learned more about my capabilities in every part of my life. I’ve learned more about my limitations but at the same time, I see how much freedom I actually have. I’ve realized that my happiness doubles when something I create can bring happiness to other people too.
What’s your current everyday makeup routine—are you minimal or do you like to play?
Lately, I’ve been leaning more into minimalism. There’s something satisfying about fitting everything into a small makeup pouch—multi-use but effective: concealer, lip gloss, blush, mascara.
We heard you’re obsessed with nail art! What’s your favorite design so far?
Yes, I’ve always loved nail art since high school. I’ve tried everything—from simple polish, french tips, foil, cat eye, 3D, airbrush, croco nail arts… it really depends on my mood or the occasion though. I do love long nails, but right now I’m giving my nails a break from extensions. These days, I’m more into simple styles like French, clean nails, or glazed nails—they just feel classy and timeless
If you had to leave the house with just one product, would it be lip, blush, or both?
Both lol
What’s a makeup look that instantly makes you feel like yourself?
a bronzy bold makeup look
What’s in your bag right now that you can’t leave without?
power bank + charger (always)
Morning rush—what’s your go-to “I still want to look put together” formula?
bandana or headband, Wonderbalm lip + blush in shade Chloë,
What’s something small that instantly makes your day better?
The right perfume scent for the day + coffee
What song have you been playing on repeat lately?
Ella mai – Little Things. Bucin song lol
In your opinion, if Chloë was a movie character, who would she be?
Jane Nichols from the movie ‘27 Dresses’. I feel like there are so many similarities between Chloë and Jane. Classy, clean, romantic, and I can totally see Jane wearing Chloë
Which musical artist do you dream of watching LIVE?
Adele, Solange Knowles, Jhene Aiko, Jazmine Sullivan, Cleo Sol, Victoria Monet, Doja Cat, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Stevie Wonder. Lol sorry banyak banget
Which “it-girl” movie character did you look up to the most?
Tbh, instead of watching it girl movies, I lean more towards badass female characters. Like Lucy Liu in Charlie’s Angels, Lara Croft (Angelina Jolie) in Tomb Raider or Letty (Michelle Rodriguez) in Fast & Furious.
What is your sun,moon, and rising sign?
Sun: Cancer, Moon: Aries, Rising: Libra.
Who inspired you to be the person you are today?
To be honest, I can't really point to just one person who made me who I am today. It’s a mix of so many people, the lessons I’ve picked up along the way, and my inner circle who’s always had my back.
My mom inspired me early on with her spirituality and loyalty, and my grandma is goals—she’s 79 and still out there filming and working on her craft. I’m also inspired by my best friend, Belladetta, for being so independent through all the ups and downs; my cousin Regine, who’s like a mirror for me; and my boyfriend, for his discipline, his healthy lifestyle, and for always pushing me to grow and bloom.
Musically, I’m inspired by Beyonce’s work ethic, the songwriting styles of Jhené Aiko, Cleo Sol, and Victoria Monét, and Solange Knowles, Stevie Wonder’s creative mind.
