Meet Haozhe Li | Illustrator

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

Hi Haozhe, we’d love to hear more about your end-goal, professionally.
My ultimate professional goal is to have successfully integrated illustration into my daily life as a fulfilling and enjoyable habit. I aspire to reach a point where I can create illustrations regularly, not just as a job but as a deeply ingrained part of who I am. I want to be in a position where I can derive immense satisfaction from the process of drawing illustrations, whether it’s for personal expression, creative projects, or even for clients.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What sets my art apart from others is the narrative angle and presentation method I employ. I am deeply passionate about storytelling through my illustrations. I believe that every piece of art should convey a story, evoke emotions, or transport the viewer to a different world. Whether it’s a single image or a series of illustrations, I strive to create a sense of narrative and intrigue in my work. This narrative approach adds a layer of depth and engagement that sets my illustrations apart.

In terms of expression techniques, I have a particular fondness for blending fantasy and reality. I believe that this combination allows me to explore the boundaries of imagination while keeping a connection to the familiar. I often use pastels as my medium of choice, which lends a hazy and soft quality to my illustrations. This technique creates a dreamlike atmosphere that invites viewers to immerse themselves in the world I’ve created.

My journey to where I am today as a professional illustrator has not been easy. Developing my own painting language and refining my style required a significant amount of practice and deep thought. I dedicated countless hours to honing my skills, experimenting with different techniques, and learning from both successes and failures. It was a journey of self-discovery and continuous growth. My journey as an artist is a testament to the power of perseverance and the boundless potential of creativity. Through my art, I aim to inspire others to explore their own creative paths and discover the magic of storytelling through visuals.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The first place is LACMA. It is the largest art museum in the western United States and boasts an extensive collection that spans various cultures and time periods. Highlights include the iconic Urban Light installation and the diverse art collections, including European, Asian, American, and contemporary art. It’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts and offers a day of cultural exploration. Then I will take them to Venice Beach Boardwalk, which is a vibrant and eclectic place to explore. They can expect to see street performers, artists, and musicians showcasing their talents. There are also numerous local boutiques and shops selling unique clothing, jewelry, and art. And Runyon Canyon is a popular hiking spot in the heart of Los Angeles. The trails offer not only a great workout but also stunning panoramic views of the city, including the Hollywood Sign. The morning is an excellent time to hike to beat the heat and enjoy the peacefulness of the trails.

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?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to the incredible individuals and experiences that have played a pivotal role in shaping my journey as an illustrator during my three years of graduate studies at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York.

In the first year, I owe a huge debt of gratitude to John Jay for his course ‘Drawing for Illustration’ and to Brendan for ‘Narrative Art.’ These courses laid the solid foundation upon which my later illustration development thrived. They instilled in me the fundamental skills and storytelling techniques that have become the bedrock of my artistic expression.

Moving into the second year, Barbara’s ‘Qualifying Research Paper’ and Lauren’s ‘Printmaking and Artist’s Books’ were transformative. These courses not only provided me with a deeper theoretical understanding of illustration but also allowed me to explore its practical aspects in profound ways. The knowledge and insights gained during this time were instrumental in my artistic growth.

In my final year, Anelle and Dennis became invaluable mentors. Their guidance and advice were pivotal, from helping me select the right themes for my visual thesis to assisting with the intricacies of the final exhibition method. Their mentorship and support played a crucial role in shaping the culmination of my graduate studies.

In essence, all the courses I’ve undertaken over the past three years at FIT have been exceptionally helpful, and I am immensely grateful for the knowledge, guidance, and opportunities they provided.

Website: haozheli.art

Instagram: empty_liii