We were lucky to catch up with Yuki Murayama recently and have shared our conversation below.

Yuki, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

I had the opportunity to work on a meaningful project in collaboration with the University of California Riverside Research team. Our focus was addressing the serious environmental pulmonary issues in the Salton Sea area, specifically targeting young residents. We embarked on creating a children’s book that aimed to explain, in an easily understandable way, what is happening inside their bodies.

The goal was to break down complex concepts and present the information in a manner that would resonate with children in the region. By collaborating closely with the research team, we were able to accurately convey the effects of air pollution and the impact it has on their respiratory system. Through captivating illustrations and relatable stories, our objective was to empower the children to understand their own health and make informed decisions. This project was deeply meaningful to me as it allowed me to contribute to the well-being of the community and instill a sense of knowledge and empowerment among the young residents, ultimately fostering a healthier future for them.

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

Growing up in Kyoto, Japan, my passion for drawing took root at an early age. Despite its rural local city, the presence of international tourists exposed me to a broader world. Inspired by my English teacher’s captivating life story and her time in California, I set my sights on studying illustration in the United States. To make this dream a reality, I persevered through various jobs to save enough money for my overseas education.

My dedication paid off when I received a scholarship from ArtCenter College of Design, offering me the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the world of art. Surrounded by a diverse and talented community, I delved into my craft, connecting with like-minded individuals and expanding my artistic horizons. While my initial focus was on creating impactful imagery, my time at ArtCenter introduced me to typography classes, igniting a passion for designing captivating posters and books.

Throughout my studies, the rise of AI-generated art presented a unique challenge. In response, I deliberately sought to balance my digital skills with a return to analog techniques whenever possible. This intentional shift allowed me to rediscover the tactile qualities and distinctiveness of traditional methods. Through editorial illustrations, typography, and layout designs found in magazines, I find joy in guiding readers into exciting and unfamiliar worlds they may have never encountered before.

From my beginnings in Kyoto to the opportunities presented by ArtCenter College of Design, my journey has been defined by tenacity and a deep passion for artistic expression. As I continue to evolve, I eagerly explore the fusion of digital and analog approaches, aiming to create captivating visual experiences and contribute to the ever-evolving world of visual storytelling.

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

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative, specifically as an editorial illustrator/designer, is the opportunity to collaborate with individuals from non-visual art backgrounds, such as writers, editors, and researchers. These collaborations often bring forth fresh perspectives and insights that I may not have considered on my own. As an illustrator, my role involves visually enhancing articles, essays, and research materials. It never ceases to amaze me how these written pieces can transport me into different worlds and introduce me to new ideas. The pleasure derived from collaborating with these individuals and witnessing the synergy between visual and written content is truly gratifying.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

Before joining ArtCenter, I worked multiple jobs, including chef, homeschool teacher, sushi restaurant waiter, and supermarket retail seller. Balancing these roles while pursuing my art practice was challenging, but my determination to attend an art school in the US and pursue illustration fueled my resilience. Despite the demanding schedule, I persevered, dedicating free moments to developing my artistic skills. Through commitment, I overcame obstacles, saved enough money, and secured admission to ArtCenter, embarking on my journey as an illustrator/designer.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.yukimurayamaillustration.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/you_kaym/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yukimurayama/

Image Credits
Yuki Murayama