Meet Zhiwen (Esther) Tang | Illustrator & Visual Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Zhiwen (Esther) Tang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zhiwen (Esther), can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
I believe that illustration is not just about crafting attractive visuals; it’s crucially about creating images that convey intricate concepts, narratives, and feelings in a way that is instinctively powerful and meaningful. Unlike language and cultural barriers visual images are a universal method for information dissemination. Illustrations can simplify complex information into clear, comprehensible visuals. For instance, my piece titled “Washington dc,” which recently won the 2024 Communication Arts Award of Excellence, presents the protests occurring in Washington D.C. in an amusing visual style. Illustrations also aim to establish an emotional connection with the audience. Illustrators harness the potential of storytelling through the use of characters, settings, and scenarios that strike a chord on a personal level. By depicting emotions and experiences that the viewers can identify with, illustrations nurture empathy, promoting a profounder grasp of and connection with the subject matter.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Developing my unique style as an illustrator has been a journey of persistent practice and exploration. During my college years, I was deeply curious about how successful artists carve out their distinctive styles. This question intrigued me, pushing me to delve into various topics, techniques, and art forms. Over time, I discovered the themes that fascinated me, the styles where my strengths lay, and the artistic messages I yearned to convey. Reflecting on my journey, the evolution of my style is evident through the diverse projects I’ve undertaken, teaching me the value of perseverance and the importance of continually seeking new ideas for my artwork.

I hold a strong belief in the power of illustration to convey empowering messages. Among my myriad projects, “Lunar Dinosaur Fantasy World” holds a special place in my heart. It stemmed from the realization that our imagination is often constrained by our knowledge. The common skepticism about the unseen or unproven sparked my desire to challenge these boundaries. In the “Dinosaur” series, I unleashed my imagination to envisage dinosaurs thriving on the moon, aiming to inspire people to embrace creativity and imagination alongside their respect for scientific truths. This project was reminiscent of the wonder and curiosity picture books sparked in me during my childhood.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In New York, what I cherish most is the endless array of museums. I highly recommend visiting the American Museum of Natural History, the MET, and MoMA. At the American Museum of Natural History, you can immerse yourself in countless historical artifacts, ranging from animals to plants, and from ancient civilizations to modern human cultures. Additionally, there’s a newly opened area where you can interact closely with butterflies, adding a unique and interactive experience to your visit. The MET and MoMA mostly house art pieces and relics from various civilizations, offering a fascinating journey through art history.

Moreover, in the Chelsea area west of 9th Avenue, you’ll find nearly 200 galleries, including the renowned Gagosian Gallery. This vibrant artistic hub provides an opportunity to explore contemporary art and emerging artists. I believe you will fall in love with these wonderful places and the rich cultural experiences they offer!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Jumping into the Shoutout series, I want to highlight the people and influences pivotal to my journey. First and foremost, my mother deserves the biggest shoutout. Her unwavering support and appreciation for my artwork have been instrumental in shaping my career. Her trust has not only built my self-confidence but has also afforded me the freedom to chase my dreams. Her constant reminders to maintain my curiosity and passion for life are vividly mirrored in my artwork, which often radiates hope and energy.

Additionally, I owe a significant debt of gratitude to my college professors. Their critical feedback was invaluable, shaping my approach to art and helping me refine my skills. Their guidance was crucial in my development as an artist, teaching me to embrace critique and use it to grow.

Last but certainly not least, I must acknowledge the profound impact of Jimmy Liao’s children’s books on my artistic path. “The Blue Stone,” Liao’s book that I first encountered, opened a new world for me with its rich imagination and compelling storytelling. His work has been a constant source of inspiration, motivating me to pursue my own artistic career. The blend of narrative depth and visual allure in his books has influenced not just my style but also my understanding of what illustration can achieve.

Website: https://esthertangarts.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/esthertang0719/

Image Credits
All credits to Zhiwen (Esther) Tang