We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jam Dong a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jam, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is Little Pond, a series of illustrations created for a picture book. This project holds a special place in my heart because it allowed me to combine my passion for storytelling, nature, and art while exploring a unique cultural approach.

Little Pond tells the story of life’s cyclical nature, capturing the journey of aquatic residents who return every spring to a small pond. They grow plants, harvest, and celebrate together, forming a close-knit community that cherishes the beauty of nature. When autumn arrives, they bid farewell to each other, anticipating their joyful reunion the following year. This narrative symbolizes the circle of life and the harmonious relationship between living beings and their environment.

The project was special to me also because it allowed me to introduce traditional Chinese painting techniques into children’s book illustrations. I experimented with “ShuiMo,” a traditional Chinese ink wash painting style, and integrated it with digital illustration methods. This combination created a unique visual language that resonated with audiences of all ages. By blending digital and traditional mediums, I aimed to bring ShuiMo to a new level, making it more accessible and relatable to contemporary viewers while preserving its timeless charm.

Little Pond received significant recognition, affirming its emotional and cultural resonance. It was selected by the 2020 Bologna Children’s Book Festival and subsequently exhibited in Japan, Korea, and China. It won the bronze medal at the Japan Illustration Award (JIA), was longlisted by Communication Arts, and earned the runner-up position in Creative Quarterly. Additionally, I was invited to present the project at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), where I shared my journey of blending tradition with modern storytelling.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

Jam Dong is an illustrator and animator. She writes and illustrates children’s books and creates illustrations for renowned publications like The New York Times and The New Yorker. In addition to editorial work, Jam transforms her art into products such as zines and posters, seamlessly blending creativity with daily life. In one sentence, Jam tells stories through her art.

Her journey into illustration began with a deep passion for storytelling and visual narratives, leading her to graduate from the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). Jam’s work is characterized by whimsical imagination and vibrant details. She uses simple shapes and colors to construct rich, complex worlds

An award-winning artist, Jam’s illustrations have been recognized by prestigious awards and competition, including the Bologna Children’s Book Festival, CCBF Golden Pinwheel Children’s Competition, JIA, 3×3 Magazine, iJungle, American Illustration, Society of Illustrators, and The Original Art Show.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

I think society can prioritize buying small and supporting local businesses and independent artists rather than shopping at big corporations. This not only sustains the livelihoods of creatives but also fosters community connections and cultural diversity.

Additionally, communities can provide accessible spaces for artists to create and showcase their work, such as local galleries, markets, and public art installations.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, it is the freedom it brings. There’s the freedom to arrange time, allowing for a flexible schedule that fosters creativity and for a better life-work balance. There’s also the freedom of self-expression—the ability to share ideas, emotions, and stories through art, creating connections with people who resonate with you.

Additionally, the freedom to choose clients and projects that I enjoy working with.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jamdongart.com
• Instagram: @fisheaddd
• Youtube: jamdongart

Image Credits

Jam Dong