Every creative has their own signature style — and Yi Qing's (@yiqinggan) is as whimsical and magical as it can get! Whether it's with a marker or Apple Pencil, her illustrations float off the page and hug you with their warm tones like a fluffy sweater.
What is one thing about graphic designing that you’ll never get tired of?
As a designer, we get to realize our ideas into dreams. Creativity inspired me to innovate something from nothing. I’m glad through illustration, I can connect brands with the community.
What do you want people to feel when they see your work?
I want them to feel warm and whimsical because I believe we can find fun in function. I want people to try being creative too by having a habit of visual journaling because I really believe that creativity runs in everyone’s blood!
A sure-fire way one can improve their drawing skills?
I keep a visual journal and bring it everywhere I go. I started to draw things that fascinated me first, and slowly started challenging myself to draw difficult things like humans and cars, in public. It definitely helps!
I’m glad through illustration, I can connect brands with the community.
How did you develop your own signature art style?
The one quote that was instilled in me is this: “Style is our habit of drawing, and a thoughtful concept is a roadmap to a great design.” My style is inspired by my love for silk screen, watercolor painting, Chinese calligraphy, and more.
Experimenting with composition is one way for me to look for a style. Go crazy with analog, then adapt to digital! But really, never stop exploring.
When was a time you felt the most challenged and how did you overcome it?
There are days I would feel lost and think, “Am I on the right track?” But one thing I always try to remember is that the future is a bunch of nows; every little step I take will shape who I become. So whenever you feel that things don’t go right, just remember, the worst thing that happens in your life can be the best lesson too.
Lastly, please list 3 of your favourite creative crushes and their IG handles to shoutout!