We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Wenqing Gu a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Wenqing, so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
My optimism truly stems from a deep-rooted belief that, at our core, we are all inherently good. As children, we are like blank canvases, always ready to absorb the goodness and beauty around us. However, as we grow older, life throws its curveballs, and we start seeing the world through a lens tinted by our setbacks and missteps. Yet, beneath all of that, the beauty and goodness we embraced as children never truly leave us. It’s like when you see a baby or a fluffy puppy and can’t help but smile – that’s the kind of purity and joy I’m referring to.
Then, there’s art. As an artist, I cannot overstate the healing power of art forms like painting and music. They are not merely hobbies or professions; they are lifelines that can soothe the soul. Picasso once said, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” That’s precisely how I feel. My art is my way of cleansing the soul, both my own and, hopefully, those who experience it.
However, optimism is not just about recognizing the good; it’s also about rolling up your sleeves and getting to work. I wasn’t born with a silver spoon. In fact, growing up, I was often the slowest to catch on in my group of friends. But I never stopped learning, never stopped striving to improve. It has been a journey filled with joy and, yes, a lot of well-earned success. My latest piece, “Reviving the Feminine Soul,” in which a girl is unlocking her inner world and allowing her stronger self to break free, embodies that concept – the latent power within us waiting to be discovered. Helen Keller put it perfectly: “Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence.”
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
As an illustrator currently residing in Baltimore, USA, my work is deeply rooted in the world of digital illustration. Known for its humor, engagement, and heartwarming healing qualities, my illustrations have gained international recognition. I take great pride in the fact that my art has been honored in multiple competitions, including prestigious ones like 3×3, Creative Quarterly, and Applied Arts. The essence of my work is to spread happiness through art, a concept that resonates in every piece I create.
My journey from the tranquil streets of a small town to the dynamic art scene in the United States has profoundly shaped my artistic vision. As a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art, my art celebrates cultural diversity. Drawing from my experiences in both China and the USA, I explore the universal emotions that bind us as humans. I believe in the power of simplicity and childlike wonder, infusing my work with fun and surprises to create a joyful visual experience for the audience.
Currently, I am exploring new techniques to make my illustrations more dynamic and expressive. I’m particularly excited about the future of animated illustrations. They offer a medium that can convey more intricate ideas on a similar scale to traditional art, allowing me, as an illustrator, to express myself in new and exciting ways.
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?
Curiosity: This has been the driving force behind my exploration and growth. Curiosity fuels the desire to try new things and helps in honing one’s strengths. My advice for those starting out is to nurture your curiosity. Be open to new experiences, ideas, and perspectives. This will not only broaden your horizons but also deepen your understanding of your art.
Persistence: Every achievement in art, as in any field, is the result of deliberate practice and unwavering persistence. This journey is often accompanied by challenges and moments of doubt. It’s crucial to have a strong belief in yourself and your vision. My advice here is to embrace the discomfort that comes with growth. Recognize that the struggles you face are part of the process and are shaping you into a more capable and resilient artist.
Long-Term Perspective: We often overestimate what we can achieve in the short term and underestimate the power of sustained effort over time. For things you believe in, just do it, and be patient with the process. My suggestion is to set long-term goals and break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. Celebrate small victories along the way, and remember that progress might be slow, but it’s still progress.
One of the best pieces of advice I can give is to read. Most challenges we encounter have been faced by others before us. The answers and insights we seek are often found in books. Reading not only provides solutions but also inspires new ideas and opens up different ways of thinking.
Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?
“Peak: Secrets from the New Science of Expertise” by Anders Ericsson and Robert Pool has been a transformative read in my artistic journey. It reshaped my understanding of expertise, emphasizing deliberate practice over the notion of innate genius. This approach, which focuses on targeted, structured practice with clear goals, significantly changed how I approach my art—shifting from mere creation to purposeful skill refinement. The book also highlighted the importance of mentors and stepping outside one’s comfort zone, encouraging me to seek guidance and experiment with new styles. These insights have been invaluable, teaching me that excellence is a product of persistent, intelligent effort and continuous learning.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.wenqinggu.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wenqing.guuu/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wenqing-gu/
