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

Alright, Jiahuiyi thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s jump back to the first dollar you earned as a creative? What can you share with us about how it happened?

Well, during my second year at Artcenter College of Art and Design, I had a opportunity to work as a concept illustrator on a group project sponsored by Ford Lincoln company, which marked my first earnings in this field. During this project, I was lucky enough to get to know my fellow transportation design students and a film director student, all under the prestigious banner of such a renowned company. The experience itself was truly a wild ride. The project revolved around a futuristic world powered and weaved by company Lincoln, and we were granted complete creative freedom in how we see that conveys the most human message for this renowned brand. It was a stepping stone in my journey as a concept illustrator, one that I will forever cherish and hold as a testament to the power of creative exploration.

Jiahuiyi, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My journey as an artist began at a young age, where I diligently honed my illustration skills through pencils and markers. I was a nerdy kid who would meticulously copying and learning the artistry in manga panels of One Piece and Slam Dunk in the middle of class, even if it meant getting reprimanded by teachers. Even though I was a disappointment throughout my middle school and high school years, my art became a gateway to connect with like-minded friends who still encouraging me to follow my dream even today. And now as an concept art professional at LA, I am privileged to work as freelancer for clients like Blizzard, Netflix and Respawn entertainment. The journey to reach this point has been filled with my gratefulness and dedication, and I’ve consistently honing my art skills through new opportunities and ventures in entertainment industries.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I think the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the freedom from fearing solitude. As I continuously creating art, I’m not only express themes that deeply resonate with my voice and liking, but also form a bond with those who appreciate them. In the act of creation, my art has became my bridges to connect with other fellow artists, anime lover and video game fans across of the world. The connections I’ve formed through my art have become invaluable and knowing my art brings joy to other’s lives is a very fulfilling experience.

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

As for now, I believe there’s nothing more important than support human artist instead of giving AI-art more attention than it deserves. I don’t care how “magic” people think this AI generated art is, AI-art has undermined the value of our creativity as humans and it should be reevaluated and used in a more responsible manner. On top of that, personally, I don’t think AI media is better than any other media we, as artist, have used. So I encourage upcoming art students to keep practicing their fundamental skills, there’s nothing can replace the diverse touch, feel and story in art that only humans can create.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jyapsd.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jya.psd/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jyaart
• Other: https://cara.app/jyayanart