Meet Chenghao Yu | Graphic Designer & Illustrator

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

Hi Chenghao, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Regarding risk, I am someone who embraces it wholeheartedly. I don’t like staying in my comfort zone. I believe that when utilized properly, risk can be a powerful catalyst for enhancing projects. This is evident in my portfolio. While I am a student of illustration, my portfolio is filled with interdisciplinary collaborations, such as interactive installations, fashion, and experimental films. I even experimented with using frozen paint that gradually melts over time, influenced by gravity, with droplets falling from my hat brim to complete my painting. These projects, from conception to implementation, involve many unknowns and challenges, but by embracing risk, I discovered the immense potential of interdisciplinary synergy that traditional illustration cannot provide.

Another example is my innovation in children’s book illustration. It is well-known that children’s books typically feature bright colors, artistic graphics, and engaging, easy-to-understand stories that bring reading joy to children around the world. This is especially important for U.S. publishers as it drives higher sales. However, as someone who loves to experiment, I aimed to completely rethink this logic from the start. This doesn’t mean creating books unsuitable for children but rather introducing a novel reading logic.

I considered that when parents buy these books, they could also engage with their children. What if a book could simultaneously captivate both parents and children? I decided to use “perspectives” in my design, similar to a crime scene where different witnesses provide different testimonies based on their observations and understandings. This concept is exaggerated and amplified in the context of adults and children. Adults and children focus on different aspects of the same event, so I created two versions within a single children’s book—one for children and one for parents. These perspectives come together, allowing readers to piece together the complete storyline.

Therefore, risk invariably accompanies those who seek to change, but I use it as nourishment, motivating me to continue exploring my creativity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Initially, I pursued an undergraduate degree in Media Creativity in my home country. After graduation, I entered a technology-based enterprise, working in external promotional design. However, over time, I realized that simple design could not achieve the ideal creative effect I desired. I believed I needed to further study my area of expertise—illustration—and integrate it with design to create the works I envisioned. Therefore, I pursued a graduate degree in Illustration at the Maryland Institute College of Art. During this period, I actively explored the application of illustration in various fields.

Currently, I focus on editorial illustrations, such as covers, posters, and article illustrations. I particularly enjoy creating illustrations about nature and life because, to me, it serves as a form of art therapy. Creating these beautiful pieces provides a warm refuge, allowing me to observe the world, reflect on myself, and find inner satisfaction. Gradually, I aim to share this beauty with others, which has become my creative direction and what makes me unique.

In my work, I also incorporate my illustration assets into design projects, enabling me to create unique and meaningful illustrations for various applications. I offer a wide range of services to clients, including book illustrations, magazine covers, brand illustrations, and artwork creation. My work is characterized by delicate lines and rich colors, tailored to specific application scenarios. Utilizing digital tools for illustration, I am more flexible in responding to client feedback and making adjustments. My specialty lies in creating illustrations that express the human spirit and the beauty of nature.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were to visit Baltimore, I would ensure they experience the rich cultural heritage and unique charm of this city. First, we would stroll along the Inner Harbor, the heart of Baltimore, with its beautiful waterfront and numerous historic ships. The National Aquarium is a must-see, featuring a variety of marine life exhibits, especially the massive coral reef ecosystem and the breathtaking jellyfish displays.

Next, we would head to Fell’s Point, known for its ancient cobblestone streets and historic buildings. In this culturally rich area, we would explore independent shops and art galleries, soaking in Baltimore’s unique artistic atmosphere. Here, we could enjoy fresh oysters and seafood at Thames Street Oyster House, savoring the classic flavors of Baltimore.

We would also visit the Baltimore Museum of Art, which houses over 95,000 works of art, including pieces by Impressionist masters like Renoir and Degas, as well as valuable collections of African art and ancient Mesopotamian artifacts. The museum also features a contemporary art section showcasing many avant-garde and innovative works. For lunch, we could dine at Gertrude’s, the museum’s restaurant, enjoying delicious local cuisine.

To experience Baltimore’s contemporary art and creative industries, we would head to the Station North Arts District. This is the city’s creative hub, brimming with vibrant street art, galleries, and performance spaces that showcase Baltimore’s innovative spirit. Here, we could also participate in workshops and experience art creation firsthand.

In summary, Baltimore is a city rich in cultural heritage, with a wealth of history, art, and cuisine waiting to be explored. From the enchanting harbor to the ancient streets, from world-class museums to the vibrant arts district, Baltimore not only showcases its deep historical roots but also its modern creative vitality. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or an art enthusiast, Baltimore offers unique experiences and unforgettable memories for everyone. The city’s unique charm and diversity attract everyone who visits, allowing them to truly enjoy a cultural feast.

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?
As a student transitioning between disciplines, my undergraduate major was Media Creativity, with a focus on advertising design. When I switched to Illustration for my graduate studies, my interest was high, but so were the challenges. Interdisciplinary study inherently requires more time to familiarize and master the specialized knowledge of both fields. Accompanying me through these challenges was my mentor, Rebecca Bradley. We completed many projects together, including RISO print, children’s picture books, and editorial illustrations. She often voiced her reservations about my adventurous spirit in projects, yet she still helped me find the best solutions based on my creative ideas. To me, she was a comrade in arms, facing the battlefield alongside me.

Another teacher, Shadra, also provided immense support. During my second children’s book project, even though she had reservations about my ideas, she meticulously checked every line of text and helped streamline the story’s logic. For this, I am deeply grateful to both Rebecca and Shadra for their assistance, patience, and companionship throughout my academic journey.

Website: https://www.chenghaoillustration.com

Instagram: chenghaoart

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chenghaoyuillustration

Image Credits
Chenghao Yu