Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Yujie Huang. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Yujie, so excited to have you with us today, particularly to get your insight on a topic that comes up constantly in the community – overcoming creativity blocks. Any thoughts you can share with us?
Creativity blocks are a reality for any artist, and I’m no exception. When I find myself stuck in a rut, the first thing I do is step away from my work. It sounds counterproductive, but taking a break, getting a breath of fresh air, or even changing my scenery often helps clear my mind and make way for fresh ideas.
Sometimes, I just need a change of perspective, so I look for inspiration in different places. I might visit a local art gallery, go through my favorite books, watch a good movie, or listen to some music. It’s incredible how other forms of art can spark new ideas and get the creative juices flowing again.
I also believe in the power of doodling. It’s a form of free expression that doesn’t need to make sense. So, when I feel blocked, I let my hand roam freely on paper, and often, this act of unrestricted creation brings about some unexpected and exciting ideas.
Having a chat with my fellow artists also does wonders. Their unique viewpoints and the way they tackle their work often provide me with a fresh perspective on my own work. These interactions not only inspire me but also motivate me to push through the creative block.
Lastly, I make sure I’m taking care of myself. A well-rested, well-nourished body houses a well-functioning mind. Regular exercise, a good night’s sleep, a healthy meal can make a world of difference in how I approach my work. After all, the mind can’t create if the body isn’t taken care of. But, most importantly, I’ve learned to be patient with myself. It’s okay to have off days. What’s important is that I’m always ready to bounce back and keep creating.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
Well, at the heart of it, I’m an illustrator and a motion artist. I create illustrations for various platforms like advertising and publishing, and I also do a lot of motion graphics. My work aims to transport people to a fantasy world that feels like stepping into a colorful, dynamic, and otherworldly fairy tale. I always aspire to create illustrations that can momentarily let people forget their stresses and provide them a sense of joy and wonder.
What I find most exciting about what I do is the endless opportunity for creativity and imagination. There’s something incredibly rewarding about translating the visions in my head into something tangible that others can appreciate and connect with. It’s like sharing a piece of my inner world with others. Each piece I create is a visual story, and I find immense satisfaction in crafting those narratives and seeing them come to life.
Something that sets my work apart is the combination of traditional textures with digital art, and my fondness for interesting shape language and flowing composition. And one aspect I am very proud of is the childlike perspective I bring to my work. I believe it allows me to see things with fresh eyes and portray them in a unique and whimsical manner that appeals to both the young and the young at heart.
One of the things I’m currently very excited about is my upcoming advertising project. It’s a 3D illustration series titled “Windows to Wonder”, which celebrates the beauty of cultural diversity and global connection. I’m thrilled to take my artistry to the next level by integrating my traditional illustration skills with 3D techniques. This project is a challenge and an adventure, and I can’t wait to share the final outcome with everyone!
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?
Reflecting on my journey, I believe the three qualities that have had the most significant impact are curiosity, adaptability, and resilience.
Curiosity has always been the driving force behind my creativity. It fuels my desire to explore new techniques, experiment with different styles, and push the boundaries of my craft. To those starting out, I would say, always keep that spark of curiosity alive. Continually ask questions, seek out new experiences, and stay open to the infinite possibilities in the world of art. This mindset will keep your work fresh and engaging.
Adaptability has been crucial in navigating the ever-evolving landscape of the creative industry. Whether it’s learning a new software to stay ahead of the curve or adjusting my artistic approach to cater to a specific project or audience, being flexible has allowed me to grow and thrive in my career. My advice to budding artists would be to embrace change. Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new things. It’s through these experiences that you truly grow.
Resilience, I think, is a quality every artist needs to cultivate. The path to a successful creative career is filled with rejection, criticism, and numerous obstacles. But it’s how you handle these challenges that define you as an artist. Each setback is a stepping stone, an opportunity to learn and improve. So, keep your spirits high, stay determined, and most importantly, believe in your craft.
In conclusion, my advice for those at the start of their journey is to stay curious, embrace change, and be resilient. Trust your instincts, keep honing your skills, and above all, create art that resonates with you. It’s your unique voice that will set you apart in this vibrant world of creativity.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client is one who values creativity and has an appreciation for unique and vibrant artistic expression. They’re someone who isn’t afraid to venture into the fantastical and whimsical, and who believes in the power of art to transport people to another realm.
Collaboration and open communication are key characteristics that I value in a client. The best projects I’ve worked on have been those where the client and I work together as a team, with a shared vision and mutual respect for each other’s ideas and expertise. A client who communicates their needs and expectations clearly, and is open to discussions and feedback, always makes the creative process more enjoyable and effective.
Another important characteristic is trust. An ideal client trusts in my abilities as an illustrator to bring their vision to life, allowing me the creative freedom to express their message or story in a way that resonates with my artistic style. This trust fosters a positive working relationship and ultimately leads to a more successful final product.
I appreciate clients who value quality and understand the time and effort that goes into creating detailed, thoughtful artwork. These are the clients who recognize the value of investing in quality illustrations, which in turn adds value to their own brand or project.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yujiecreative.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yujie.creative/
