An Excellent Visual Narrative Starts with Keeping It Light
Illustration by Jo Zixuan
1. If illustration is a friend who has been with you for a long time, what does it look like in your mind?
Dawn Yang: A: I feel that illustration, or drawing, is more like a partner than just a friend, haha. It's something that can accept all parts of me, no matter which age phase I'm in. It also encourages me to explore the world around me, helping me to become more open-minded and curious. It's like having a supportive companion that pushes me to grow creatively and discover new perspectives.
Illustration by Dawn Yang
2. How did you become an illustrator? Do you like the label?
Jo Zixuan: A: I studied illustration at the School of Visual Arts with the goal of becoming an illustrator. But before fully committing to art, I initially pursued finance because I thought it was the "right" thing to do. However, I soon realized that following my passion was the right path for me. I don't mind the label at all. I see myself as an illustrator, among many other labels, and I'm proud of it.
Dawn Yang: A: It's in my DNA! I'm a very emotional, sensitive, and anxious person. Illustration is not just my job, but also a necessary way for me to heal myself.
3. Where are you based now and who do you work for?
J: A: I'm currently based in Shanghai and work from my home studio. I'm currently working on a piece for the New Yorker and a new book cover. I've been fortunate to work with major media companies such as the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, Bloomberg Businessweek, and more.
D: A: I'm currently living in New York City. Life has been busy with various challenges, but I'm trying my best to enjoy the process of solving problems while pursuing my passion for illustration.
4. How would you describe your style?
J: A: My style is textural, atmospheric, and simplistic. I enjoy exploring the use of different textures in my work and the challenge of conveying complex stories through simple images. My style is constantly evolving, ever so slightly.
D: A: Many people who know me feel that my art style is different from my personality, but in reality, my illustrations express the real me. I like to keep my distance from people, but I also hope that through my art, those around me can understand the real me. Illustration is a perfect way for me to communicate with others.
Illustration by Jo Zixuan
Illustration by Dawn Yang
5. How do you usually start a project? What is your preferred creative environment?
J: A: Once I have all the necessary details for the project, I usually start by collecting reference photos and creating thumbnail sketches. The beginning of a project is often the most challenging for me, as I can be a harsh critic of my own work and go back and forth during the brainstorming stage.
D: A: I start a project when I feel the moment to express something. I prefer to be in my room and disconnected from others while I'm drawing.
6. What's your secret to staying inspired and motivated?
J: A: It's important for me to avoid overworking myself. As a freelancer, it's easy to blur the boundary between work and life. I've realized that when I bury myself too deeply into work, my ideas can become dull and generic.
D: A: My inspiration and motivation come from my passion for the world and those moments when I fall in love with someone or something.
7. Who is your dream client? Why?
J: A: My dream client would be someone with a generous timeline, a big budget, and a lot of creative freedom.
D: A: My dream client would be science magazines or websites because I find science to be incredibly romantic.
8. What kinds of tools do you typically use, and how do they impact your work?
J: A: I use the internet for research, pencil and paper for sketches, and Procreate and Photoshop for final work.
D: A: I usually use an iPad because of its portability. It allows me to draw anywhere, like on the subway or in a restaurant.
Illustration by Dawn Yang
Illustration by Jo Zixuan
9. As an independent illustration artist with more free time, how do you organize your day?
J: A: I start my day with some plants and coffee. When I have more free time, I might take a nap in the afternoon. The rest of my day is usually filled with work and taking walks.
D: A: Lately, my days are filled with eating, sleeping, and drawing. I've been quite busy and haven't had much time for anything else.
10. What would you consider doing without considering the reality if you don't do illustration anymore? Why?
Jo Zixuan: A: I would consider doing pottery. I picked it up during my last year of college, despite the physical strain it can put on my wrists and back, because I absolutely love it.
Dawn Yang: A: I would love to be a sculptor if I wasn't doing illustration. I am drawn to the idea of creating three-dimensional art.
11. How would you comment on your past works, and what kind of works do you consider perfect in your opinion?
J: A: I think my past works are great. I appreciate the commitment and passion I put into them, and I aspire to maintain that level of dedication in my future work. For me, perfect works are genuine and creative.
D: A: I always feel that my works are fantastic. To me, perfect works are those that have a brilliant concept combined with excellent illustration skills.
12. Please recommend a movie you like and the top three soundtracks you enjoy listening to when working.
J: A: I recently rewatched "The Graduate", which I found to be perfectly relatable as I graduated just a couple of years ago. I enjoy classic rock and jazz vocals when I'm past the sketch stage, but I prefer silence while I'm still in the process of sketching.
D: A: I recommend "A Rainy Day in New York". As for soundtracks, I enjoy listening to Sergei Rachmaninoff's "Piano Concerto No.2 in C Minor, Op.18: I. Moderato" and "Come Closer" by Boy Harsher, as well as "Mer" by Hyukoh, while I'm working.