Meet Hannah Li | Illustrator

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

Hi Hannah, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Starting my own business stemmed from a desire for greater autonomy and creative freedom. As a freelance illustrator, I realized the potential to build something uniquely mine, where I could fully explore my artistic vision and connect directly with clients. Establishing my own business allowed me to take control of my career path, set my own schedule, and pursue projects that align with my passions and values. It’s been a challenging yet rewarding journey, filled with opportunities for growth and self-discovery.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is deeply rooted in storytelling and emotion, with a focus on capturing the human experience in all its complexity. What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly blend traditional techniques with contemporary design elements, resulting in illustrations that are both timeless and modern. I take pride in my distinctive illustration language, which evokes a sense of optimism, tranquility, and emotional depth.

My journey to where I am today has been anything but easy. Like many artists, I’ve faced numerous challenges along the way, from navigating the uncertainties of freelancing to dealing with creative blocks and self-doubt. However, each obstacle has served as an opportunity for growth and resilience. Through perseverance, dedication, and a willingness to adapt, I’ve been able to overcome these challenges and emerge stronger than ever.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of embracing failure and rejection as integral parts of the creative process. Every setback has taught me something new and pushed me to refine my craft and approach.

Ultimately, I want the world to know that my art is a reflection of my passion, authenticity, and unwavering commitment to storytelling. Whether through editorial illustrations or children’s books, my goal is to create work that resonates with audiences on a deep and meaningful level, sparking curiosity, empathy, and connection.

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?
We’ll kick off our trip with a cozy brunch in SoHo, followed by a leisurely coffee as we explore boutique shops, galleries, and street vendors. For dinner, we’ll spice things up with a visit to a hotpot restaurant, the perfect end to an exciting day of exploration. Another day will be dedicated to visiting a renowned art museum and wandering through a historic neighborhood known for its charm. In the evening, we’ll cap off the day with a live performance or concert.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are several individuals and resources that deserve recognition for their support and inspiration throughout my journey. Firstly, I want to express gratitude to my parents for fostering my love for art and encouraging me to pursue my passions fearlessly. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in shaping my artistic identity.

I’m also indebted to my mentors and professor Rick Lovell at the Savannah College of Art and Design who provided invaluable guidance and mentorship, helping me develop my skills and navigate the complexities of the illustration industry.

Furthermore, I’m incredibly thankful for the clients and collaborators who have entrusted me with their projects and provided me with opportunities to showcase my work. Their belief in my abilities has been a driving force behind my success.

Website: https://hannahli.art/

Instagram: hannahhhli