We were lucky to catch up with Junjun Chen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Junjun, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

“Tea For Three” is a 56-page wordless picture book depicting the story of a girl chased incessantly by a monster from wilderness to forest. In a series of surprising twists, the girl and her cat friend discover that the monster, who chases them all the way along, simply seeks to have a cup of tea with them. With a touch of horror, surprising twists, and a hint of humor, I aim to offer a new perspective on confronting our inner fears.

The inspiration for this book comes from my real experiences. Reflecting on the journey I have been through, I realize that fear is both an external reality and an internal imagination. When I can calmly confront my fears, it can even push me to see a bigger world. Eventually, I was able to sit down and peacefully have a cup of tea with my fear.

All the line works are done with charcoal pencil on paper, and color is completed digitally and combined with watercolor texture.

Junjun, 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?

I am an illustrator from China, with a MFA degree in Illustration from the School of Visual Arts in New York City. Before coming to New York, I spent seven years working in the finance industry in China, primarily dealing with client funds Later, I transitioned to studying art and worked as a visual designer in China’s internet industry for five years. Throughout this journey, I discovered my passion and talent for illustration, which led me to pursue opportunities in New York.

Currently, I am on the path of carving my illustration career, exploring my personal style, practicing themes I want to depict, and finding suitable projects and clients. My focus lies primarily on editorial illustration and picture books. I excel in composition, using color to convey emotions within my illustrations, and establishing connections with the audience. Beyond creating aesthetically pleasing illustrations, over the past year, I’ve increasingly emphasized the significance of the messages conveyed within the artwork. I aspire for my work to be impactful and to communicate values rather than merely providing entertainment.

What sets me apart? I believe it’s the sincerity I infuse into each creation, even if it may sometimes come across as clumsy.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

I think every illustrator has heard teachers and mentors remind us to develop our own style. But what exactly is “our own style”? I was initially very confused about this too. However, over this past year, I suddenly realized that style is essentially just you. It’s like how everyone speaks with their own tone and attitude, each reflecting their personality and perspective. Drawing is no different.

Once I understood this, I began observing myself more closely, paying attention to what themes I gravitate towards and what techniques I enjoy and excel at using (such as loving to draw spontaneously, or preferring to arrange carefully). I also took note of what drawing styles I didn’t enjoy or excel in. Once I found myself, it was about boldly being myself. I believe everyone is a gem, radiating their own unique light. And my mission is to discover my own shine.

As an artist, I’ve begun to learn about myself, accept myself, believe in myself, and express myself. This has been a significant gift that drawing has given me.

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Firstly, it’s about income and rights. I’ve heard complaints from my exceptionally talented illustrator friends in China about how little publishers pay them. Some of them have published several books but still struggle financially. I’ve also encountered a publisher who wanted me to illustrate picture books for a very low price. Illustrators are in a very vulnerable position throughout the entire process. Without adequate income and rights protection, I believe many of them would find it difficult to persevere. Secondly, it’s about opportunities. I hope there can be more opportunities for newcomers. Opportunities can help newcomers grow and bring more fresh faces to the industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://junjunchenart.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/junjunchen.art