We were lucky to catch up with Claire Yoo recently and have shared our conversation below.
Claire, so happy to have you with us today. You are such a creative person, but have you ever had any sort of creativity block along the way? If so, can you talk to us about how you overcame or beat it?
While I still experience creative blocks from time to time, I often find myself returning to the place where my creativity initially began: books and animated TV shows/movies. When I feel stuck or uninspired, revisiting new and old stories that originally sparked my passion helps me reconnect with why I chose this path and reignites the excitement I first felt. I love discovering new techniques and narratives that help expand my thinking and inspire fresh ideas. But in addition to reading and watching animated media, sometimes simply stepping away and focusing on other hobbies or looking at other artists’ work have been just as helpful. Creative burnout is real and I’ve learned that constantly overworking or pushing yourself can exhaust your imagination. Taking a break to recharge often gives me the clarity and energy to return back to my work with a fresh set of eyes and mind. Art block is something I am still trying to navigate, but I am always open to trying new approaches that help broaden my perspective.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I currently attend the School of Visual Arts, majoring in Illustration. I aspire to become a children’s book illustrator and create stories that not only connect with young readers but also bring excitement. Ever since I was young, I’ve struggled to voice my opinions or express my thoughts and feelings through words. Over time, drawing became my outlet and my voice. As I continue to grow, explore new styles, and refine my skills, my goal is to connect with children and inspire them to nurture their creativity and emotional expression. Just as art brought me comfort and freedom, I hope my work offers that same sense of understanding and enjoyment. As I attend art school, I am taking it one step at a time, working hard to share my voice and I hope that one day I’ll be able to create children’s books that not only tell meaningful stories but also help children feel seen, heard, and inspired to express themselves through art.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Three qualities I would say that were the most impactful in my journey are taking risks, making connections, and most importantly remembering to maintain confidence and trust in yourself. The art industry can be difficult to navigate at times, but from personal experience, it becomes easier as you build your confidence and grow more secure in both yourself and your art. Personally, it was a bit daunting to me at first, but once I joined art school and found myself surrounded by fellow artists, I began to learn the value of open mindedness and keeping a positive outlook on critiques. Growing your skill takes time. It is easy to get caught up in your worries but try to have fun with it! Everyone’s journey is different, so don’t forget to be nice and patient with yourself!
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
Putting my art out into the world hasn’t always come easily to me. While I am confident in my skills and love to create illustrations, I often feel hesitant when it comes to sharing my art publicly. Art began as something deeply personal and vulnerable for me, so the idea of others reacting negatively can feel overwhelming at times. But over time, I’ve been learning to face that fear by finding a healthy balance. I remind myself that not every piece needs to be shared or perfect, and that it’s ok to keep some art just for myself. At the same time, I understand that art is subjective and everyone experiences it differently. As I pursue my goal of becoming a children’s book illustrator, I’ve been challenging myself to post my work more regularly and to treat each opportunity, like this interview, as a chance to grow and connect. I also remind myself that my art might bring someone else comfort or joy, and that can only happen if I’m willing to share it. Every artist starts somewhere, and I am learning to see this process not as something to fear, but as an exciting step in my creative journey!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://claireyoo01.wixsite.com/cdyoo-3
- Instagram: @dahyuoo
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairedhyoo
Image Credits
All illustrations are created by Claire Yoo.
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
