Meet Sinki Huang | Illustrator, Designer & Photographer

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

Hi Sinki, what is the most important factor behind your success?
The cornerstone of my success lies in my unwavering commitment to continuous learning. One of the standout achievements I am immensely proud of is the creation of the FILA CHINA Sports Club logo, a design that emerged victorious from a pool of designs submitted by various talented designers within the company. This logo, which I conceptualized and designed in 2020, remains an integral part of the company’s branding to this day.

While delving into this project, I recognized the need to extend my knowledge beyond conventional sports and explore unique and intriguing athletic disciplines. This drove me to explore lesser-known sports, enriching my creative arsenal and broadening the diversity of my visual representations. My extensive reading on the subject allowed me to distill the essence of each sport into concise yet powerful visual elements. By blending my artistic intuition with these insights, I crafted a design that not only captured the vibrancy and variety of sports but also embodied the collective dynamism of the sports club (evident through the kaleidoscopic background hues).

Furthermore, my journey includes the design of a clothing collection that was featured at Milan Fashion Week, garnering significant attention and achieving a top-three sales ranking for that season. The secret behind this success stems from my dedication to absorbing and adapting various design styles and forms. Rather than confining myself to my established design norms, I embraced the story and concept behind this new collection, themed “VOYAGE.” By aligning my creative process with the narrative essence of the collection, I embarked on a quest to identify artistic inspirations that resonated with this storyline.

By synthesizing these diverse influences and infusing my own unique perspective, I crafted a pattern that seamlessly integrated pop art elements with the nuances of photography. This distinctive pattern became the hallmark of the entire VOYAGE collection, a synthesis of my learning journey and artistic expression. The collection’s resounding success underscores the potency of embracing a constantly evolving approach to design.

In essence, my success can be attributed to my unceasing pursuit of learning, which empowers me to create designs that transcend the ordinary and resonate with a diverse audience. I firmly believe that the blend of continuous learning and the ability to adapt different artistic styles has been instrumental in propelling my career forward.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I take immense pride in one particular aspect – my unwavering commitment to embracing my passion and resolutely chasing my dreams, regardless of the uncertainties and difficulties that lie ahead.

Unlike many who receive formal training in art from a young age, I didn’t have the privilege of undergoing specialized drawing exercises, such as sketching or color theory classes. This unique aspect sets my work apart, granting it a liberating freedom. My artistic expression isn’t bound by the confines of academic norms, avoiding the rigidity that can sometimes characterize institutionalized art forms. My creative thoughts are boundless, stemming from observations of life, nature, and the limitless realm of imagination. My approach to art doesn’t merely document reality; I am not fixated on replicating the physical world as it is. Instead, I strive for succinct, symbolic representations, focusing on the accurate portrayal of stories and ideas that resonate within me. I believe that art has the power to conjure limitless wonder and narratives, enriching the mundane with boundless splendor.

Frankly speaking, the path to my current professional status wasn’t an easy one. My love for art ignited at a young age, but my parents’ support waned, even evolving into strong opposition, starting from my junior high school years. I pursued a bachelor’s degree in tourism management, and my transition to the field of illustration was accomplished through my tenacious effort during my master’s studies. This journey was marked by challenges, notably when my parents’ reservations about my artistic pursuits coincided with their belief in the practicality of a different career path. Their concerns led me to a management or economics major for my undergraduate studies as they seemed to offer more secure prospects.

Nevertheless, once I entered university, I discovered my lack of enthusiasm for tourism management. I dedicated my spare time to honing my artistic skills, attending exhibitions, and immersing myself in illustrated literature. During my sophomore year, I diligently refined my sketching and design abilities, forming the foundation of my illustrative journey. Additionally, I took advantage of the art and design courses available at my university, such as Traditional Chinese Painting and color theory, further augmenting my expertise.

Secretly, I used funds earned from part-time work to enroll in digital art and graphic design courses, constantly refining my craft. These pursuits remained hidden from my parents due to my fear that they might discourage my dreams.

As I approached my junior and senior years, I decided to unveil my artistic passion to my mother, showcasing my portfolio and explaining my unwavering desire to pursue graduate studies in illustration. This vulnerable conversation bore fruit, eventually gaining my parents’ approval, and they generously supported my decision to study illustration abroad, covering tuition and living expenses.

Amidst the hurdles and setbacks, my passion for illustration and design, coupled with the belief in my chosen path, steered me onward. Overcoming initial resistance from my parents and societal pressures that often favor conventional career paths was undoubtedly challenging. However, their eventual acceptance and endorsement allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming an illustrator and designer. The journey was arduous, but the lessons learned in persistence, determination, and the pursuit of personal passion are invaluable treasures that continue to shape my professional and personal life.

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?
Living in the heart of New York City, I would seize the opportunity to give my best friend an unforgettable week-long experience. If they were visiting, I’d make sure every day is filled with the city’s vibrant energy and unique charm.

**Day 1: Broadway Magic**
We would kick off the adventure with the glitz and glamor of Broadway. Catching a couple of iconic shows like “Hamilton” and “The Lion King” would set the perfect tone for the trip. The grand theaters and captivating performances would leave us in awe.

**Day 2: Culinary Exploration at Chelsea Market**
We’d dive into New York’s culinary scene at Chelsea Market. I’d take my friend to savor authentic tacos and fresh oysters, savoring flavors that reflect the city’s diverse culture. Exploring the market’s nooks and crannies, we’d indulge in artisanal delights.

**Day 3: Sunset Splendor at Little Island**
A visit to Little Island would be a must. Basking in the glory of a vibrant sunset and the gentle summer breeze, we’d be mesmerized by the breathtaking views. The added bonus would be the free summer concerts, immersing ourselves in the sounds of the city while surrounded by nature.

**Day 4: Bryant Park’s Movie Night**
An evening at Bryant Park’s grassy expanse, watching classic movies under the stars, would be a memorable experience. Snuggled up with blankets and popcorn, we’d relish in the nostalgic ambiance of outdoor cinema.

**Day 5: Central Park Picnic**
We’d spend a leisurely day in Central Park, basking in its serenity and natural beauty. A picnic on the Great Lawn, surrounded by lush greenery and the city’s skyline, would be a moment of tranquility amid the bustling city.

**Day 6: Vibrant Chinatown Adventure**
Exploring the lively streets of Chinatown, we’d dive into its rich culture and indulge in affordable yet delicious Asian cuisine. From dim sum to bubble tea, every corner would be a treasure trove of flavors.

**Day 7: Art and Culture Exploration**
Our final day would be dedicated to art and culture. We’d visit renowned museums like the MET and the MoMA, immersing ourselves in the world of creativity and expression. We’d end our journey with a stroll along the High Line, an elevated park adorned with art installations and scenic views.

This itinerary encompasses the best of NYC, from the bright lights of Broadway to the hidden gems of Chelsea Market, the tranquil moments in Central Park, and the cultural immersion in Chinatown. Each day would be a unique adventure, showcasing the city’s diverse facets and ensuring my best friend experiences the essence of New York’s soul.

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 am truly indebted to FILA, my previous workplace, for granting me the opportunity to flourish and refine my skills, enabling me to craft exceptional designs. This platform, being a large organization, has allowed my work to reach a nationwide and even global audience, infusing my creations with profound meaning and value. A special shoutout goes to my mentor, Xiong, a seasoned pattern designer whose guidance has been invaluable. Moreover, I owe a significant debt of gratitude to Angela Ooi, my Design Director, and James, the VP, who, as industry experts, have steered me towards comprehending the business aspects of design and creating designs with commercial viability and market relevance. Their collective mentorship has been an enlightening journey, transforming my artistic passion into a commercial endeavor. Their wisdom and insights have significantly influenced my creative approach and direction.

On another note, my heartfelt appreciation extends to the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), my graduate school, for imparting a comprehensive and structured education in art and design. Within MICA, I would like to particularly recognize Rebecca Bradley, the head of the Illustration department, and Deanna Staffo, the Assistant Chair of the Illustration department. Their captivating teaching methods and patient guidance have not only deepened my understanding of illustration and design but have also been instrumental in the creation of works that I am proud of and that resonate with audiences worldwide, leading me to secure international awards.

Each of these exceptional individuals has significantly shaped my journey. Their unwavering belief in both me and my art has fueled my determination to succeed. Their mentorship, encouragement, and recognition have been indispensable in my creative evolution. As I reflect on my journey, I am profoundly thankful for the profound impact they have had on my story.

Website: https://sinkihuang.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinki-huang/

Other: Email: sinkihuang.art@gmail.com Little Red Book: https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/5a72c0864eacab7439937c6b?xhsshare=CopyLink&appuid=5a72c0864eacab7439937c6b&apptime=1650996117

Image Credits
Annie Hu, Sinki Huang