We were lucky to catch up with Linzhuo Niu recently and have shared our conversation below.

Linzhuo, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Are you happy as a creative professional? Do you sometimes wonder what it would be like to work for someone else?

Being an artist is both fun and anxiety-provoking. When I was in high school choosing a college major, a teacher I really respected told me to choose something I’ve always loved since I was a kid, and then everything will work out as it should. I figured art was the way to go, even though when I was a kid adults always thought it was an unprofessional hobby that couldn’t be taken as a job with no future, but who has the criteria for a good job? After four years of studying at the University of the Arts, coming into contact with a group of open and free people, and experimenting with different mediums, I don’t regret at all choosing to major in illustration. After graduation, I did face the challenge of finding a job, most of the jobs related to my major are freelance, but it is possible to do several jobs at the same time to fill up your time. Normal office jobs are a bit boring for me, but they’re also more stable, except that they usually ask for something that’s not that relevant to my own drawing. I think it’s important to find your balance between a stable job and freelance, it’s good to just have a sense of control over your life before doing anything else.

Linzhuo, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Linzhuo (Alaia), and I’m a New York based illustrator passionate about visual storytelling and illustration.

In my creative endeavors, psychology themes and storytelling are my primary interests in art creation. I was always fascinated by the complexity of human behavior and society. I frequently draw upon psychological elements, enabling me to artistically articulate my emotions and reflections about the world and its intricacies. Making art related to my life experiences is a way of self-developing and connecting with others. I enjoy expressing my thoughts and feelings through art and presenting them to people who can relate. The exchange of opinions and ideas is meaningful to me as an artist. I believe in the power of illustration to communicate complex ideas and evoke emotions.

I tried different jobs during school, and after graduating, the key problems I aim to solve for my clients are conveying an accurate message and enhancing storytelling in publications. I collaborated with museums and influential environmental organizations on visual art projects. In my freelancing period, I collaborated with artists across various domains, creating captivating visuals such as music album covers, performance posters, and story illustrations for short films and children’s books. These projects were interesting and presented exciting challenges that I thoroughly enjoyed tackling. My journey has taught me the significance of striking a harmonious balance between life, art, and nature, consistently driving my personal and professional growth.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Social media is essential for independent artists, and using social software wisely can increase your exposure and meet potential clients and others who appreciate your work. Frequently updating your social software and posting new paintings can ensure that you are active on the web, and it is also an excellent way to monitor that you are staying caught up. I will regularly post my new projects on my social media programs and interact with people who follow me, starting with small exchanges to build connections and gradually my circle will grow bigger and bigger.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

It is often said that learning the arts is not just about drawing but also about being knowledgeable in business, publicity, and various other fields, and it is true. I recommend watching more TED talk videos; speakers in different areas will give their entrepreneurial thinking and ways to get resources. Everyone succeeds in different ways, but there are some similarities. Try different ways to promote yourself and increase your efficiency. As creators, we need to reflect on ourselves occasionally to see which path is best for us to take and learn from the experience like these speakers.

Contact Info:

• Website: nlinzhou.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alaiaillustration/
• Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/LinzhuoNiu
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/linzhuon

Image Credits
they are my own works