We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ni Ma. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ni below.

Alright, Ni thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s jump right into how you came up with the idea?

Creation is such a joyful process. Whenever I begin a project, I don’t jump straight into sketching—instead, I start with words. This allows me to explore endless ideas and even stumble upon unexpected combinations. Once I have my concept, I move on to composition. Next, considering the mood and message I want my illustration to convey, I focus on values and colors. Finally, I infuse my own artistic voice into the piece to make it lively and unique.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hi there! I’m Ni Ma, an illustrator and motion media designer passionate about turning ideas into vibrant, meaningful visuals. Currently, I am a professor of illustration at the Savannah College of Art and Design. My love for art and storytelling started when I loved doodling on the wall when I was little. Over time, it evolved into a full-fledged career. What drives me is the thrill of creation, whether through whimsical illustrations, bold designs, or immersive visual narratives.

I specialize in Illustration, Animated illustration, motion design, and any digital storytelling. My work helps clients, brands to create connection and communicate their ideas with clarity, emotion, and a touch of magic. Whether it’s: bringing characters and worlds to life for books, games, or animations,crafting eye-catching visuals for branding and marketing, Solving creative challenges with unique, tailored artwork,—I’m here to make the process fun, collaborative, and unforgettable.

I believe the best creations come from a mix of playful experimentation and thoughtful execution. My process starts with words and concepts, allowing me to explore wild, unexpected ideas before refining them into polished visuals. I don’t just make art—I aim to tell stories, evoke moods, and create connections. Plus, I pour my own artistic voice into every piece, ensuring it’s not just beautiful but distinctly “you” (and a little bit “me”).

One of my greatest joys is building connections with my audience and making people feel seen while helping clients see their vision come to life in ways they hadn’t imagined. Whether it’s working on an end title sequence for an independent film or creating meaningful illustrations for clients like GoFundMe, I thrive on projects that challenge me to push boundaries.

If you’re looking for art that’s expressive, intentional, and bursting with personality, you’re in the right place. Let’s create something amazing together—something that doesn’t just look good but feels right.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Absolutely! At the heart of my work is a simple but powerful goal: to make creativity feel joyful, meaningful, and accessible. Whether I’m illustrating a whimsical character, designing a brand identity, or crafting a visual story, I want my art to do more than just look pretty—I want it to spark emotion, connection, and maybe even a little wonder.

I believe the world needs more art that feels alive—work that’s playful but intentional, imaginative but purposeful. That’s why I focus on using visual language to help businesses connect with their clients and potential clients.

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

For me, the greatest joy comes from turning the intangible into something real—whether it’s a feeling, a story, or a spark of an idea—and seeing it resonate with others. There’s magic in that moment when a sketch becomes a character with personality, when colors and composition click into place to evoke the exact mood I envisioned, or when a client says, “This is even better than I imagined!”

But beyond the final product, what truly fuels me is the process: the thrill of exploration, the happy accidents that lead to unexpected ideas, and the constant learning that keeps creativity alive. Art isn’t just what I make—it’s how I think, problem-solve, and connect with the world.

And the biggest reward? Knowing that my work might make someone pause, smile, or feel understood. Whether it’s through a whimsical illustration, a powerful brand visual, or a personal commission that holds meaning for someone, that’s the heartbeat of why I create.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.nimamaglish.com/
• Instagram: manimationstudio
• Linkedin: Ni Ma

Image Credits

Ni Ma