Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Fan Tang. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Fan, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
Confidence and self-esteem were not things that came naturally to me—it was something I had to build over time through challenges, setbacks, and moments of growth. One pivotal experience was during my childhood when I underwent surgery to correct amblyopia and hyperopia. The recovery process wasn’t easy, as I had to wear glasses and a custom fabric eye patch my grandmother made for me. While some people teased me, the love and creativity behind that simple eye patch reminded me that I was supported and valued, no matter how I looked.
Later in life, as I pursued art and illustration, I faced a different kind of challenge—stepping into an industry that is both competitive and subjective. My early freelance years taught me to listen closely to client feedback, adapt quickly, and trust my skills. Each successful project became a small building block of confidence, as I saw my work not only meet expectations but also bring joy to others.
Moving to the U.S. to study illustration was another leap. Financial pressures and cultural differences made it intimidating, but I reminded myself that every difficult step was an opportunity to grow. My confidence came from pushing through these moments of uncertainty—whether it was presenting my work to international audiences or going viral for wearing Hanfu at my graduation. Each time, I learned to focus on what I could control: my effort, my creativity, and my passion.
One of the biggest turning points was realizing that confidence doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means believing in your ability to figure things out. By embracing my imperfections and understanding that failure is part of the process, I’ve learned to approach challenges with optimism and resilience. Today, I see confidence not as a destination but as a practice, nurtured by the support of loved ones, the satisfaction of creating meaningful work, and the courage to keep trying, no matter what.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I am Fan Tang, a freelance illustrator, where I specialize in creating illustrations that connect cultures and tell meaningful stories. My work spans a wide range of applications, including packaging, posters, comics, and animation. What excites me most about being an illustrator is the opportunity to combine art with function—to create pieces that are not just visually appealing but also practical and impactful. Seeing my work come to life on products that people use every day or in campaigns that resonate with audiences is incredibly fulfilling.
A major focus of my art is celebrating cultural heritage. For instance, one of my ongoing projects involves illustrating ancient Chinese poetry in modern, visually captivating ways. Through this series, I aim to bridge traditional Chinese culture with contemporary audiences, creating a dialogue that highlights the timeless beauty of these works. This project has been particularly rewarding as it not only deepens my own understanding of my roots but also sparks curiosity and appreciation in others. Currently, I’m exploring ways to expand my portfolio by incorporating more storytelling into my illustrations.
Looking ahead, I’m also planning to create more community-centered projects that allow me to collaborate with other artists and creatives. My goal is to use art as a medium to inspire, connect, and celebrate diverse perspectives. I want to push boundaries and create work that not only reflects my personal journey but also contributes to something larger—art that leaves a meaningful, lasting impression.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back on my journey as an illustrator and cultural storyteller, I would say the three most impactful qualities or skills were resilience, adaptability, and a deep understanding of storytelling. These have shaped not only my career but also my approach to life.
1. Resilience
Resilience has been the foundation of my journey. From navigating financial constraints to overcoming cultural and language barriers when I moved to the U.S., resilience helped me keep moving forward, even in challenging times. My advice? Embrace challenges as opportunities to grow. Building resilience takes time, but small steps—like setting achievable goals and celebrating progress—can help you face difficulties with a stronger mindset.
2. Adaptability
As a freelance illustrator, no two projects are ever the same. Each client brings unique needs and visions, and being adaptable has allowed me to succeed in this dynamic environment. Whether it’s mastering a new artistic style, understanding cultural nuances, or tackling tight deadlines, adaptability ensures you’re ready to take on anything. For those starting out, I recommend staying open to feedback and viewing every project as a learning opportunity. Experimenting with different techniques and styles early on can also help you become more versatile.
3. Storytelling
Art is not just about creating something beautiful—it’s about connecting with people on a deeper level. Understanding how to weave stories into illustrations has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. It’s what makes my work unique and memorable, whether I’m illustrating ancient Chinese poetry or designing packaging for a product. To develop this skill, immerse yourself in diverse stories—whether through books, films, or real-life experiences. Think about how your art can evoke emotions and spark conversations.
Advice for Those Early in Their Journey
Stay curious: Always seek new perspectives and ideas. Curiosity fuels creativity and keeps your work fresh.
Invest in your craft: Build a strong foundation in technical skills, but also explore how your personal experiences and cultural background can inform your art.
Network and collaborate: Some of the best opportunities come from connections with others. Surround yourself with people who inspire and challenge you.
Your journey will be unique, and that’s your greatest strength. Stay true to your voice while staying open to growth. The combination of resilience, adaptability, and storytelling will guide you through the ups and downs, allowing you to create meaningful work that resonates with others.
What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
One of the most impactful things my parents have done for me is their unwavering support and open-mindedness. For many, this might seem ordinary, but for an Asian child, it’s something truly rare. They never pressured me or imposed their values and life choices on me. Instead, they always told me that as long as I protect myself and don’t harm others, they will support whatever I choose to do.
Because of this support, I’ve learned to see the world through a lens of inclusivity and understanding. My parents’ open attitude taught me that everyone’s life path can be different, and there’s no absolute right or wrong when it comes to choices. This perspective has allowed me to approach my art with greater freedom and to appreciate the beauty of cultural and ideological diversity.
Where I am today—choosing illustration as my career and pursuing my dreams in the United States—stems from the deep belief they instilled in me: that I don’t need to live within anyone else’s framework. My parents’ love and trust have given me the courage to embrace the unknown and the conviction that as long as I truly love what I do, I’ll find my way.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ffantang.com
- Instagram: @ffan_tang
Image Credits
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