We recently connected with Yi Fu and have shared our conversation below.
Yi, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
I like to share a story about my recent artwork named Sunset Amusement Park. In the enchanting world of the Sunset Amusement Park, a young and imaginative child named Zizi finds himself in a remarkable situation. He is the only human amidst a sea of mechanical wonders. With his boundless creativity and passion for adventure, Zizi has transformed the park into a captivating playground. However, there’s a catch: the park’s robot employees, who bring life to various attractions, are prone to occasional breakdowns.
Undeterred by this challenge, Zizi takes it upon himself to ensure the park’s attractions continue to run smoothly. Whenever a robot employee malfunctions, Zizi steps into action, donning different outfits to temporarily become the missing piece that keeps the magic alive.
As the days turn into twilight, Zizi traverses the park alone, exploring every nook and cranny. In his quest to maintain the park’s attractions, he delves into a world of whimsy and wonder, discovering the hidden stories behind each ride and the secrets that lie beneath their enchanting exteriors.
While Zizi cherishes the solitude that allows him to indulge in his vibrant imagination, he longs for companionship. He yearns for someone who can share in his fascination for the park’s marvels and the mysteries that lie within. Nevertheless, he remains undeterred, finding solace in the company of his mechanical creations and the endless adventures that await him within the Sunset Amusement Park.
Join Zizi on his captivating journey as he unravels the magic, overcomes challenges, and discovers the true essence of companionship in a world where he is the sole human amidst a realm of whimsical machines.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I’m Yi Fu, an illustrator based in the heart of New York City. My art is a canvas where life and love paint their stories. I find inspiration in the most profound of human emotions, whether it’s the pure ecstasy of happiness, the weight of sadness, or the haunting grip of despair. My work is an exploration of these feelings, a visual journey through the intricate tapestry of existence.
Beyond my illustrations, I find immense joy in the world of handmade crafts. The process of creating, whether it’s through felting or crafting, is a deeply meditative and rewarding experience for me. There’s something profoundly satisfying about bringing something to life with my own hands, about molding raw materials into objects of beauty and meaning.
Yet, like any creative soul, there are moments when I struggle to find that spark of inspiration. It can be disheartening when the vision in my mind doesn’t quite manifest on the canvas or in my crafts. Those are the times when I step outside, alone, into the bustling city or the tranquil embrace of nature. The open road and the natural world have a way of cleansing my creative palette. The feeling of the wind against my skin, the scent of the earth, and the simple act of driving alone bring me back to center. It’s in those moments that I find the fresh perspective I need to return to my work with renewed passion and clarity.
So, join me on this artistic journey where every emotion is a color, every stroke of the brush a chapter, and every crafted creation a testament to the beauty that life, love, and the world around us offer. In my art and in my personal quest for creative fulfillment, I hope to inspire and connect with all those who share my passion for the profound beauty of the human experience.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative isn’t about fame or fortune. It’s about something far simpler yet profoundly beautiful – it’s about happiness.
I’ve never harbored grand aspirations of becoming a household name in the art world. My ultimate hope, my genuine wish, is that when people encounter my work, they experience a moment of pure, unadulterated joy and happiness.
To see someone’s face light up with a smile, or to witness that spark of delight in their eyes as they engage with something I’ve created, that’s my measure of success. It’s an indescribable feeling, knowing that I’ve contributed a little piece of happiness to someone’s day.
That’s why I’m drawn to creating art that’s fun to see or play with. I want my work to be a source of joy, a whimsical escape from the mundane. Whether it’s a playful illustration, a colorful painting, or a handcrafted piece, I aim to infuse a sense of delight into everything I create.
In a world where life can be demanding and challenging, the ability to bring a moment of happiness to someone through my art is a reward beyond compare. It’s a reminder that art isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a conduit for emotions, and the most beautiful emotion of all is happiness.
How did you build your audience on social media?
My journey to building an audience on social media began back in 2019 when I decided to share the magic of my creative process on Chinese TikTok. It all started with posting videos showcasing the step-by-step creation of my art. Little did I know that these humble beginnings would lead to a thriving community of art enthusiasts.
The key, I found, was consistency. I made a commitment to post my works regularly. People were not only interested in the final piece but also in witnessing the evolution of an idea from its initial concept to the finished artwork. Sharing the entire creative journey added a unique and personal touch to my content.
In the beginning, it wasn’t always smooth sailing. There were days when it felt like no one was noticing my work. But my advice to anyone starting to build a social media presence is this: be patient. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a substantial online following.
The art of growing your audience is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s about staying true to your passion, continuing to create and share, even when it seems like no one is watching. The key is perseverance. Keep posting, keep engaging with your audience, and most importantly, stay authentic to your creative voice.
Over time, as you persist and your content resonates with people, you’ll begin to see your audience grow. And as it grows, nurture it. Interact with your followers, listen to their feedback, and incorporate their ideas when you can. Building a community around your art is as much about forming connections as it is about creating beautiful work.
So, if you’re just starting on the path of building a social media presence, remember this: post consistently, be patient, and most importantly, stay passionate about what you do. Your dedication will pay off, and you’ll find your own tribe of followers who appreciate and celebrate your unique creative journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.callmezizi.com
- Instagram: callmezzzzizi
- Other: Chinese TicTock: fuy1o_