Meet Shandy Pan | Illustrator

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

Hi Shandy, why did you pursue a creative career?
I have always had the habit of noticing the small things and focusing intensely on them. Some people around me view this as a distraction, but I see it as a strength that allows me to appreciate aspects of the world that others may overlook. This habit has become most crucial in shaping my artistic career, as I get multiple sources of inspiration. Through the process of exploring these minute details, I found the joy in self-discovery that art brings me. It has taught me to question the conventional belief that ‘focus’ means concentrating on a single task and ignoring everything else. My mind became active, constantly reconsidering previously overlooked elements, feelings, and thoughts. I am very thankful that I had the opportunity to seek inwardly, and when I stop and look back at a certain stage, I wouldn’t skip any step. It’s for these reasons that my work primarily focuses on the often-overlooked elements of everyday life. I wanted to record these moments and share my experiences, so I constantly remember to be grateful and not forget them. I’d like to share my perspective with others, and wish they smile knowingly after seeing my work

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 greatest inspiration for art comes from a variety of experiences. I find that minor variations can evoke very different feelings in similar experiences. I am fascinated by these subtle, often overlooked, indescribable changes. Fearing that I might forget these changes, I try to visualize my experiences, and record and share them. I hope that even if my audience hasn’t had the same experiences, they can still find something resonant in my work. Pursuing an art career was taking the hard path for me. My greatest challenge comes from being easily distracted by others’ expectations for me and others’ achievements. I’d have to battle these expectations against my will, convincing people why I chose illustration instead of a ‘real job’, meanwhile struggling to convince even myself. So I relentlessly tell myself that everyone progresses at their own pace until I believe it. Luckily during the process, I have turned from a person who once only believed in one correct path to follow into one who now sees so many different ways I can strive for the life I want. I want to share my work in hopes that my audience will appreciate the mundane parts of life same as I do.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Fortunately, my friends and I share the same interests. For me, the most rejuvenating way to spend time is to stroll through a favorite or yet-to-be-explored neighborhood, drink in hand, knowing I can stay hydrated. We’re open to any kind of weather; we walk extensively and look for a spot to sit and observe the passersby. I’d take my friends to an area with boutiques and shaded streets, or perhaps to a large park. We’d wear comfortable shoes and spend the afternoon wandering.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The most credit undoubtedly goes to the people around me. I am so grateful to my parents, friends, and teachers, who encouraged and supported me along the way to bring me to where I am today. They had much more faith in me before I had faith in myself. Without the consistent encouragement, advice, and exchanges from those close to me, I wouldn’t have developed the self-awareness, inclusivity, and curiosity that I now possess. They have all played a huge role in shaping my professional path. Their belief in my potential and continuous support have always been my bedrock.

Website: https://panshandy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panshandy/