Meet Quinn Liu | illustrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Quinn Liu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Quinn, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
As time has passed, I’ve definitely redefined the balance between work and life, especially as I’ve gone through different stages of life. When I first started my journey, particularly as a student and a freelance illustrator, there was almost no distinction between “work” and “life.” It was all just a constant cycle of deadlines, projects, and the desire for improvement. I often worked late into the night, sacrificing sleep and personal time in the name of getting better or completing tasks. Back then, I believed that being busy was the key to success.

However, as I gained more experience and got to know myself better, I realized that the lack of balance was unsustainable. I began to notice the toll it was taking on my physical health, mental well-being, and overall creativity. I often felt exhausted, and my work didn’t have the same spark or passion it once did. That’s when I started rethinking my approach to balance.

Now, I think of balance not as a strict 50/50 split, but more as something fluid and constantly evolving. There are times when I’m very focused on work, especially when I have big projects or deadlines, but I make sure to schedule breaks, hobbies, and self-care activities to recharge. It’s about being mindful with my time—recognizing when I need to push myself and when I need to step back. I’ve also set boundaries, like limiting late-night work or taking the whole weekend off when I can. This helps me feel more energized in both my personal and professional life.

my view of balance has evolved from a rigid “work-first” mentality to a more flexible, sustainable approach, where I not only prioritize work but also the relationships and practices that keep me healthy, happy, and inspired.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m an illustrator and pattern designer based in New York City, specializing in creating custom patterns and illustrations for a wide variety of brands and applications. My work is driven by a deep love for the natural world, particularly flowers, and my artistic style reflects a desire to capture their wild, untamed beauty. I aim to bring these natural elements to life, allowing them to bloom freely in their most organic state. Whether it’s the intricate details of a petal or the fluid motion of a vine, my goal is to preserve the fleeting moments of beauty that are so often overlooked, transforming them into designs that feel timeless and captivating.

it is not easy in the journey of pursuing art. I started by working with smaller projects and clients, honing my skills, and refining my style. I’ve faced challenges like learning to balance creativity with commercial demands, and constantly pushing myself to innovate while staying true to my artistic vision.

Ultimately, my mission is to create designs that feel alive, that breathe and evolve with each project, and that help brands tell their unique stories in a way that’s both timeless and fresh. Whether it’s through a custom pattern or a detailed illustration, I want my work to evoke a sense of wonder and authenticity—because in the end, art should always feel like a reflection of life itself: wild, free, and ever-changing.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In my three years living in New York, the place that has touched me the most is the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. It’s a peaceful sanctuary, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the city, almost like a green paradise hidden within the urban sprawl. I would take my friend there because it’s not just a place to admire plants, but a space where we can slow down and immerse ourselves in the gentle embrace of nature.

I’d love for us to find a peaceful spot along one of the garden paths, take out a pen and paper, and capture the serene beauty around us. The sound of birds chirping, the soft breeze brushing against our faces, and the sunlight filtering through the leaves—it’s a moment that nourishes all our senses. In such a setting, our spirits are soothed, and inspiration gently rises within us. For us, it’s not just a visit—it’s an intimate conversation with nature, leaving us with a sense of inner peace and fulfillment to carry forward.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
One of the most significant influences on my illustration journey during my senior year has been my teacher, Lisk Feng. She is an exceptionally talented Chinese illustrator currently based in New York, and her guidance has been incredibly important to me. While her impressive portfolio speaks for itself, what has truly inspired me is her unwavering passion and dedication to art.

Lisk has always remained true to her artistic vision while continuously exploring and experimenting with new techniques. Her commitment to both her craft and innovation has taught me that resilience and perseverance are essential in pursuing a creative career. She frequently shares stories of the ups and downs in her own creative journey, showing how she has overcome challenges while maintaining her passion for art. It’s clear to me now that, for her, art is not just a career, but a lifelong pursuit.

Most importantly, her sincerity has taught me that the true value of art lies not in following trends, but in creating work that is meaningful and personally significant. She constantly emphasizes that the real worth of art comes from the artist’s dedication to their own vision, and it is this genuine commitment that resonates with audiences.

Website: https://quinnliu.cargo.site

Instagram: Quinn_liuu