Illustration from the School of Visual Arts, specializing in vibrant, richly colored illustrations that evoke warmth, healing, and joy. My work spans paintings, printmaking, and handcrafted art, drawing inspiration from personal memories, lived experiences, and dreams.

Growing up in Guangzhou, a city where tradition and modernity coexist, I was immersed in a rich cultural landscape—from historic temples to neon-lit streets. The city’s deep-rooted craftsmanship, from paper cutting to embroidery, nurtured my appreciation for handmade artistry, which I now incorporate into my work. Its blend of Cantonese traditions and global influences shaped my storytelling approach, inspiring me to capture nostalgia, human connection, and surreal beauty.

Bringing this cultural identity to New York, I embraced the city’s artistic dynamism to refine my craft and explore new creative possibilities. Immersed in a globally connected art scene, I deepened my understanding of how illustration bridges cultures and emotions. Navigating between my Chinese roots and life in New York has enriched my perspective, allowing me to create work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.

When did you start creating? Was there a specific moment or inspiration that led you to it?

I decided to pursue illustration in high school, but my artistic journey began much earlier in childhood art classes. I am deeply grateful to my parents for supporting my passion, enrolling me in various extracurriculars, and encouraging me to develop my skills. Among them, drawing was the one I truly connected with. My first introduction to illustration came through discovering the works of Jimmy Liao, whose art became an early inspiration.

Attending an art-focused high school further solidified my path, as the creative environment and like-minded peers provided continuous motivation. The pivotal moment came when I attended a lecture by a Maryland Institute College of Art professor, whose insights into structured American art education fascinated me. This experience ignited my desire to study abroad and marked the beginning of my artistic journey in the U.S.

Countless moments of encouragement and support have shaped my path, from childhood sketches to formal training. Each experience has nurtured my passion for illustration, leading me to where I am today.

What emotions, messages, or themes do you hope to convey through your work?

I strive to evoke warmth, healing, and connection through my illustrations. Three qualities have shaped my growth and artistic message: preserving my intent, staying curious, and embracing self-reflection.

With rapid AI advancements, many illustrators, myself included, have questioned the relevance of human artistry. At times, comparing my work to AI-generated imagery led me to doubt my path, causing creative stagnation. However, curiosity and self-reflection helped me overcome this, allowing me to explore new techniques, draw from personal experiences, and refine my artistic voice.

Ultimately, I aim to create emotional resonance—offering comfort, joy, or nostalgia. Illustration is more than visual storytelling; it bridges the artist and audience. I hope to remind fellow creatives that human expression is irreplaceable. By staying true to our vision and embracing change with resilience, we can continue crafting meaningful, heartfelt art that leaves a lasting impact.

What materials, tools, or techniques do you use, and why did you choose them? 

Since childhood, I have primarily learned to create art using traditional tools such as pencils, pastels, gouache, and acrylics. Later, I began exploring digital tools in college, gradually integrating both into my work. I aim to incorporate innovative elements into traditional painting techniques for a more creative visual effect. At the same time, digital tools offer greater efficiency, making them ideal for producing commercial art.

What was the biggest challenge you faced in your creative journey, and how did you overcome it?

Over the past year, my greatest growth has been learning to seek validation from within rather than relying on external affirmation. Balancing academic and professional pressures, I often felt overwhelmed by anxiety, striving for perfection to gain approval. However, this mindset led to diminishing confidence and a waning passion for illustration, affecting my well-being.

Recognizing the need for change, I shifted my focus to self-healing—creating for personal fulfillment, exploring new places, and enjoying activities alone. This helped me regain confidence, embrace imperfections, and stop doubting my abilities in the face of criticism.

As a result, my illustrations have become more distinctive and filled with a sense of healing. This journey of self-discovery has allowed me to express my artistic vision more authentically and fully.

Do you remember your first sale? How did it feel?

The first time I sold my work was at my school's art market, where I showcased my handmade pipe cleaner figurines. The moment I made my first sale, I felt an immense sense of accomplishment. Hearing my customers praise my creations as they purchased them brought me overwhelming satisfaction—it felt less like a transaction and more like a deeply fulfilling experience.

Has a customer ever shared a special story or reason for purchasing your work?

Some customers shared that my artwork reminded them of their pets or other cherished memories, excitedly telling me how my creations brought them joy. It felt like more than just a monetary exchange—it was a meaningful connection between people, a collision of souls through art. I genuinely enjoyed listening to their stories and felt truly happy knowing they had found something they loved.

Is there a particular piece or product that customers seem to love the most? What makes it special?

My favorite piece is a depiction of Central Park in New York. It’s an acrylic painting capturing a warm afternoon, where the park is lush and full of life. This artwork was also handed over to the customer in person at Central Park, making the exchange even more special. That day felt incredibly warm and reassuring, adding to the meaningful connection behind the piece.

What are your future plans? What do you hope to achieve through your creative business?

My future plan is to expand my knowledge by exploring other industries and fields, then combining this newfound expertise with my background in illustration to engage in interdisciplinary learning and research. I don't want to limit myself to just creating traditional 2D artwork; I aspire to push boundaries and explore more groundbreaking forms of creation. Furthermore, I envision establishing my own art studio, a space that fosters creativity and innovation, where I can cultivate a unique artistic environment. Through this studio, I hope to share the healing and warmth that art brings with a wider audience, allowing others to experience the transformative power of creative expression.

Are you working on any exciting new projects or collections?

Currently, I am working on an illustration series inspired by the concept of the family of origin, but with a focus on warmth and healing. Through this story, I hope to evoke a sense of resonance in others, leading to collective healing. In the future, I may venture into interdisciplinary artistic experiments in other fields, and I am excited to see where this creative journey takes me!

Why did you choose to join ZART? How has our platform helped your creative business?

ZART is professional and convenient for artists to publish their works, and this stage offers lots of chances for artists to share their stories.