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

Shuyi, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

The first time I knew I wanted to pursue a creative or artistic path professionally traces back to my senior year in college. Initially, I wasn’t an art major—instead, I studied English education. I always admired the noble mission of teaching English, especially because it helps people not only learn a language but also gradually understand and integrate into the culture of a country. Yet, despite its purpose, the field often felt monotonous to me.

Growing up, I had been fascinated by comics, illustrated books, and fashion magazines. I loved drawing, crafting, and exploring creative pursuits, so deep down, I always yearned for the aesthetically rich world of art. However, when it came time to choose a college major, I gave up on art, worried about the potential instability of an artistic career and anxious about the uncertain future it might entail.

In my senior year, however, I found myself at a crossroads, still uncertain about my future path. Something inside me still longed for art, so I decided to take almost every art-related course my university offered. In one of my painting classes, as I layered different colors with brushes of varying textures and saw the colors blend and transform on the palette, a renewed desire for art sparked within me.

That moment was a turning point; I knew I had to give art a real shot. I decided to start fresh and embrace this challenging, creativity-driven path. I began learning to paint from scratch, gradually experimenting with traditional and mixed media, then blending these methods with digital art. Through this journey, I slowly developed my unique style, shaped by the trials, explorations, and joys of the creative process.

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

I’m excited to introduce myself and share my creative journey. I originally majored in English education, but my deep love for art and creation eventually led me to where I am today. Growing up, I was fascinated by the worlds within comics, illustrated books, and fashion magazines, which sparked my passion for drawing, crafting, and exploring the beauty of visual expression. Like many, I initially chose a “safer” path, concerned about the uncertainties of an art career. However, in my final year of college, this passion reignited, and I knew it was time to listen to my heart and embark on a creative path.

Today, I focus on visual art that combines traditional mixed-media techniques with digital painting, creating a unique and vibrant style that reflects both my background and personal experiences. My work spans a variety of creative projects, from custom illustrations and brand graphics to digital artworks. These pieces showcase my distinctive aesthetic, inspired by both classical and contemporary influences. Much of my work features charming, anthropomorphized animals dressed in classical costumes of my own design, engaging in discussions about relationships and moments from daily life.

For my clients, I aim to create visuals that are not only visually appealing but also tell a story and evoke emotion. Whether for a personal project, a commercial brand, or collaborative artwork, my approach is to blend textures, colors, and themes that bring out a strong sense of atmosphere and personality. I help clients visually express their ideas in a way that’s memorable, impactful, and true to their vision.

What sets me apart is the blend of traditional and digital influences in my art. I love experimenting with different mediums and styles, and over time, I’ve developed a creative language that balances exploration and refinement. I’m proud of my growth on this journey, especially starting from scratch and continuously honing my craft. Seeing clients connect with my work and knowing I contribute something unique to each project brings me immense satisfaction.

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

For me, as an artist, the most valuable approach is to use humor and playfulness in my work to explore hidden issues in society, to connect emotions between people, and to evoke empathy and healing. I believe that art is not merely a visual expression—it’s a medium for conveying emotions, telling stories, and sparking resonance. Whenever I bring my ideas to life through brushstrokes, colors, shapes, and lines, allowing viewers to feel a familiar emotion or be touched by a detail in the work, that moment is priceless to me.

I love infusing my unique style into each piece, blending a respect for traditional art with modern innovations. One of my favorite themes is anthropomorphizing adorable animals, dressing them in classical attire, and depicting them in everyday life scenarios that reflect human emotions. This is not only a way to express myself but also a bridge to communicate and share emotions with the audience. As a creative, this experience of building emotional connections with viewers is what I cherish most as an artist.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

In my view, society can best support artists, creatives, and a thriving creative ecosystem by fostering an environment that genuinely respects and values artistic work. First, increasing investment in art and cultural education is crucial. When more people understand the value and diversity of art, it not only enhances aesthetic appreciation but also helps cultivate respect for the significance of creative work.

Additionally, governments and organizations can offer more funding and resources to help artists explore new ideas and experiment with different styles without constantly worrying about financial stability. This kind of support not only fuels individual creativity but also enriches society with a wider range of cultural experiences.

Finally, I believe that support for the arts goes beyond financial aid; it requires a cultural shift in recognizing art as an essential, valuable profession, rather than merely a hobby or luxury. By raising awareness of the impact and healing power that art can bring to society, we can encourage people to engage with art more in their daily lives, creating a more inclusive and creatively vibrant community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.behance.net/gallery/190041923/ShuyiWu-PORTFOLIO
• Instagram: shu.shuw