Meet Flora Bai | Illustrator & Designer

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

Hi Flora, how do you think about risk?
As a freelance illustrator, one of the main challenges I face is self-doubt, which is often compounded by the solitary nature of the job. Unlike in an office setting, where regular meetings and conversations with colleagues can provide a sense of connection and help keep up with industry trends, working alone can lead to feelings of isolation and frustration, especially when job opportunities are scarce. Social media can also amplify the pressure to compare myself to others’ successes.

To combat these negative feelings, I remind myself that the ups and downs of freelance work are common, and it’s important to avoid negative self-talk. Instead, I focus on creating new work when I don’t receive commissions, going to exhibitions and seeking inspiration, and communicating with other creatives in the industry. Although it can be challenging to stay motivated during tough times, I tell myself that I have to be persevering and tough because I chose this career myself. 

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Originally, I studied interior design during my undergraduate studies. For my thesis, I wanted to incorporate human activities into my designs in an interesting and understandable way, so I used illustrations as part of my design. I am passionate about illustration because I believe it summarizes and synthesizes people’s ideal lifestyles, and certain aspects of an artwork can fill the void within the audience’s hearts. I hope my work can do the same: not only cure myself but also bring empathy to others. I was very lucky to be accepted into the MFA Illustration as Visual Essay program at SVA and started my career in illustration in New York.

Switching from an interior design graduate to a professional illustrator is not easy, as I realized many of my peers already had years of practical experience. I needed to urgently build up my portfolio website, social media presence, and business cards, all of which had to showcase my illustration skills and ability to meet various client demands. Even though some days I feel anxious or self-critical, I overcome this through continuous creation, communication, and support from my peers, who I know have much to teach me.

My first illustration collaboration was with Penguin Random House to create a year calendar about bookstores, followed by another collaboration with Penguin China on classic novel covers. My illustration series for brands such as TOST and MARVIS gained a lot of attention on the internet. In my three years as an illustrator, my work has been recognized by the Association of Illustration, Society of Illustrators, 3×3 Magazine, American Illustration (AI-AP), Communication Arts, Creative Quarterly, China Illustration Biennial, Penguin Random House, the Rockefeller Center, and more.

Moving forward, I hope to collaborate more with the publishing industry and editorial illustrations to share my work to more people.

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?
It’s difficult to name just one place in NYC. Whenever my friends come to the city, I send them a growing list of must-visit restaurants and hot spots. It’s becoming a google doc now… My favorite part of the city is the theaters and museums, and I appreciate the increasing number of pop-up shows that offer a unique and fleeting experience. I would like to draw attention to the Met Cloisters, a hidden gem it sure is. Located near the botanical garden, being inside the architecture of the Cloisters always calm me down, and I especially love the rooftop gardens, which are particularly stunning during the summer.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe my present and future achievements as an illustrator to my parents’ unwavering support. Whenever I feel like I am letting them down or failing, they reassure me that things are not as bad as I think. I also want to give a special shoutout to my furry companions, Zima (a Yorkie) and Judy (a Netherland Dwarf bunny), who keep me grounded and remind me to stay present in the moment. Thanks to them, I have met so many other kind pet parents who have become my close friends in the US. I started a pet portrait business a while ago, which has been thriving thanks to the help of my friend Vicki (who is also a Yorkie mom). She helped me build my Etsy shop and is always there for me when I experience emotional breakdowns.

Website: FloraBaiArt.com

Instagram: @florabai.jpg

Image Credits
All images are original and created by Flora Bai.