Meet Yichin Chen | Illustrator

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

Hi Yichin, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Years ago, when I decided to switch my career path from graphic design to illustration, I had no work-life balance. I worked almost 20hrs every day on my portfolio and drawings to establish my style and voice as an illustrator. I knew hardworking was the only way to lead the life I wanted. As my career path expands and my illustrations get more recognition, luckily, I have more time to rest and restore my creative energy in my daily life. Of course, being hardworking will lead me to a better place, but I have learned to have more time to take care of myself mentally and physically. I think there’s no clear definition to measure work-life balance, but I think it’s more about knowing when to recharge my creative battery while challenging my limitation. And it’s how I feel about balance.

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.
I was a graphic designer for numerous years before deciding to embark on a new path as an illustrator. This transition marked a significant career change and led me to confront a personal identity crisis while struggling to make my own living. Letting go of what I had built and starting anew from scratch proved immensely challenging. Thus, forming my illustration style also became a journey of self-discovery. Drawing upon my previous studies in graphic design and traditional ink-wash painting, I found solace in developing my illustration style and honing my skills while searching for what truly represented me as an artist. In my illustrations, the textured strokes of watercolor and ink on paper reflect my Taiwanese heritage. At the same time, the thoughtful composition and incorporation of typography reflect my background in graphic design.
Regarding the subjects of my illustrations, I delved into various themes, including fortune-telling, astrology, body positivity, and the complexities of female appearance anxiety. These inspirations came from my life experiences and passions, and translating them onto paper became a transformative process of self-acceptance and healing.
Throughout this journey of exploration, I have grown both as an illustrator and as an individual, gaining confidence in my abilities. I have learned to approach my illustrations with the sharp eye of a graphic designer, providing clients with unique perspectives and incorporating my design thinking into my artwork. This fusion of art and design sets my illustration business apart from others, allowing me to offer a distinct and compelling vision to those I collaborate with.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my friends visit NYC, I hope they come in Spring! The weather would be lovely; great for walking around the city without sweating, and I hope they are not allergic! We would start our day with lattes from my favorite coffee shop near my apartment. The unpredictable weekend subway schedule would be less annoying if we had some nutty and creamy latte on our hands. Then, we could start our day with a simple set of Japanese breakfasts from Okonomi in Williamsburg or some tots and pancakes from a popular brunch place in the west village. Then we could walk to Chelsea and Tribeca area, visiting the Whitney Museum if they’d like. And we must take a slow walk in the high-line park! It’s my favorite place in NYC, where nature seamlessly converges with modern urban designs and echoes the city’s rich history.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
A heartfelt shout-out goes to all the incredible clients who have trusted me and provided invaluable opportunities! I am fortunate to collaborate with clients who share my aesthetic and embrace open-minded creative discussions. Each task I undertake is a valuable learning experience, and I take pride in the growth and accomplishments achieved alongside my collaborators. Their unwavering trust and support leave me eternally grateful and eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.

I would also like to extend a special shout-out to my dear friends whom I’ve had the pleasure of meeting in New York. Relocating from the opposite side of the globe and establishing my business in the US was no small feat. Still, their unwavering support and companionship have been an immense source of luck and encouragement.

Lastly, I must express my deepest gratitude to my parents, the cornerstone of my journey. Their unwavering support and unconditional love have shaped me into the person I am today, and for that, I will be forever grateful.

Website: https://fineredsilk.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yichin-chen-5b1775144/

Image Credits
Yichin Chen