Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Yunyi Dai. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Yunyi, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s the best or worst investment you’ve made (either in terms of time or money)? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)
Working as a freelance illustrator means that I create my own schedule for the week and keep track of my tasks and commission deadlines. Every freelancer’s needs and priorities are unique, so the investments I have made are just some suggestions based on my own specific goals and circumstances.
For me, the most important investment is a high-quality drawing tablet that allows me to draw directly on the screen, significantly improving my workflow and the quality of my work. Popular options include Wacom Cintiq and iPad. In addition, having a comfortable chair with lumbar support and incorporating regular physical exercise into my routine are also some of the best investments in health and productivity.
Yunyi, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
I am an award-winning freelance illustrator specializing in Editorial and Children’s Book Illustration. Since 2019, I have been traveling across the country as the Lead Project Illustrator for NPR Next Generation Radio. As a storyteller and visual problem solver, I am passionate about creating Editorial Illustrations, Children’s Book Illustrations, Illustrated GIFs, and 3D Illustrations.
My illustrations have been recognized with several notable awards, including the Award of Excellence in Communication Arts Illustration 2023, a Merit Award from the 3×3 International Illustration Show, and being chosen as a winner in American Illustration 41 and 42. I am also excited to announce that I have an illustrated Children’s book scheduled for release in just a few months!
I currently reside in Pasadena, CA, with my partner and two cats, Cookie and Maki. I am also a traveler who thrives on new adventures. Whether I am exploring unfamiliar flavors and dishes or gliding across the ice on skates, I always find inspiration in the world around me.
I am dedicated to helping people tell their stories through imaginative conceptual solutions. I am available for assignments both locally and abroad.
Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?
I think one of the most important things I wish I had known earlier is the significance of developing a rich visual vocabulary. In the early stages of my career as a painter, I often found myself isolated in my studio, dedicating long hours exclusively to my personal projects. While this allowed me to refine my skills, it somewhat disconnected me from the illustration industry. My perspective shifted when I had the opportunity to live in New York City for a year. During that time, I came to appreciate the value of connecting with fellow artists and the importance of researching styles, techniques, and trends in illustration. These interactions helped me remain informed about the industry’s current trends and supported the evolution of my own style.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
It is also fulfilling to help others convey their narratives and messages through my visual solutions. It’s a collaborative journey with art directors and writers where I play a role in bringing someone else’s vision to the world. This sense of collaboration and the knowledge that my work makes an impact serves as a constant source of motivation in my creative journey. These are the things that inspire me to wake up and make my first cup of coffee in the morning.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://yunyidaiart.com/
- Instagram: @yunyidai
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yunyi-dai-3b1b55126/
- Twitter: @yunyidaiart
Image Credits
Illustration by Yunyi Dai