We were lucky to catch up with Zhongqi Li recently and have shared our conversation below.
Zhongqi, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?
The most meaningful project I’ve had the privilege of working on was during my time at Shanghai Riot League of Legends Wild Rift team. As an artist, I not only had the responsibility of creating artwork, but I was also given the opportunity to be part of the publishing team.It gave me a great sense of importance to this project. It was a great experience to be a part of the entire product development process within the industry.
Moreover, it was wonderful to be surrounded by such talented artists. Engaging in open discussions and sharing ideas further honed my artistic skills and enriched my creative approach.
The experience at Shanghai Riot also played a significant role in shaping my career. I gained clarity about my own passions and strengths within the creative field.
Zhongqi, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I am a character concept artist and illustrator, and I am passionate about bringing imaginative worlds and captivating characters to life.This role is important to any video game because the concept artist develops the art that tells the story that players visualize while playing the game. Throughout my artistic journey, I have had the wonderful opportunity to collaborate with various gaming companies, where I design game characters and create in-game artwork. I have worked as a concept artist and illustrator on projects like League of Legends: Wild Rift, Overwatch 2, Apex Legends, Honor of Kings, and many others.
From a young age, I was captivated by the enchanting worlds of comics and Japanese anime. This early fascination ignited my creative spark and shaped my decision to pursue a career in concept design. As I delved deeper into the realm of art, I realized that character design was my true calling.
In my creative process, I relish in constructing intricate backstories for each character, developing their personalities, and envisioning the worlds they inhabit. Whether it’s a heroic protagonist, a cunning antagonist, or a whimsical sidekick, I strive to make each character distinctive and memorable.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
Yes, my driving force in my creative journey is to craft fascinating worlds and characters. My ultimate goal is to witness the characters I designed not just existing but thriving within the immersive realms of video games, and leaving an indelible mark on players’ hearts.
What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?
I believe that the most crucial aspect is Diverse Representation and Inclusivity. Only in a society that is sufficiently inclusive can artists feel free and empowered to explore and create boldly without limitations. Promoting art education and increasing public recognition of art are equally important. These efforts can lay the foundation for a vibrant creative culture and it will benefit both artists and the broader community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.artstation.com/mrrabbit
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrrabbit_art.psd/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100017018944229
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhongqili/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Mr_Rabbit_Li
Image Credits
League of Legends: Wild Rift – Jinx