10 Questions with Yun Yao

Yun was born in China and currently living in California. She finds inspiration in the diversity of materials and the endless possibilities they offer for visual storytelling. Yun's work aims to explore a range of themes, from personal experiences to abstract concepts, with the ultimate goal of connecting with her audience on an instinctual level.

Throughout her childhood, Yun found solace in art, and Yun's artistic vocabulary is influenced by the traditional art forms of her upbringing in China, as well as the social and environmental circumstances she has encountered in both China and the United States, where she has been living for the past seven years. This has allowed her to create a unique blend of art that draws from a diverse range of influences and experiences.

www.yunyaoim.com | @yartichok

ARTIST STATEMENT

Yun's artistic focus is on creating illustrations that communicate a message of hope and possibility, using mixed media to bring her ideas to life. She aims to use her platform to raise awareness about important issues that are close to her heart. Representation and diversity are important to Yun, and she is committed to using her art to elevate diverse voices and perspectives.

INTERVIEW

Let's talk about yourself first. Why are you an artist, and how did you become one?

From a young age, my unwavering passion for art has fueled my artistic journey. I was immediately captivated by the world of creativity and knew that it was my calling. Growing up in China has undeniably influenced my artistic style, blending traditional cultural elements with contemporary techniques to create a unique visual language.
My formal education in illustration and interface design further honed my skills and provided me with a focused avenue to express my passions. Today, I take great pride in offering a diverse range of creative services, including illustration and interface design, to assist clients in solving their individual challenges and accomplishing their goals. I find immense fulfillment in the process of helping others through my artistic abilities.
When collaborating with clients, I approach each project with a spirit of partnership and collaboration. I firmly believe that the most exceptional results emerge from a synergistic relationship between the artist and the client, working together to manifest their vision into reality.
I am tremendously proud of my accomplishments, having participated in exhibitions and received accolades for my work. These achievements serve as a testament to my commitment to excellence and the recognition of my artistic contributions.
Above all, my love for creating and my unwavering passion for art continue to drive me forward. I am dedicated to producing work of the highest caliber that genuinely reflects the unique needs and desires of my clients. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my perspective and connect with others through the power of art.

How would you define yourself as an artist? And how did this definition evolve over the years?

I am an artist who is deeply passionate about creating visually captivating and emotionally resonant art. My artistic style is a fusion of traditional cultural influences and mixed-media techniques, drawing inspiration from nature, music, and my own personal experiences.
As I embarked on my artistic journey, I realized that my passion for creation went beyond aesthetics. It became a driving force to make a meaningful impact on the world around me. This led me to explore new avenues, such as community-based art projects and public installations, where I could utilize my artistic talents to bring positivity and transformation to people's lives.
Continuing to evolve and challenge myself is a fundamental aspect of my artistic identity. I constantly strive to push my boundaries, experiment with new techniques and styles, and embrace growth as an artist. I firmly believe that evolution is vital for artistic expression and allows me to explore uncharted territories of creativity.

Why did you choose illustration specifically over other mediums?

I am drawn to illustration as my primary medium because it offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with clients and bring their visions to life through visual storytelling. Through illustration, I am able to create images that convey specific messages, ideas, or emotions, customized to meet my clients' needs and objectives.
Illustration is a versatile medium that allows me to communicate a wide range of concepts and ideas, adapting to various styles and formats. Whether I'm creating illustrations for newspapers, marketing campaigns, or visual designs for digital products, my skills as an illustrator enable me to produce visually appealing and effective images.
One of the reasons I am passionate about illustration is its adaptability to different contexts and settings. Whether I'm working in a studio or out in the field, I can create illustrations that seamlessly integrate into various applications and mediums, including print, digital media, and even motion graphics.
Overall, I see illustration as a powerful tool that harnesses my creativity and artistic skills to help clients effectively communicate their messages. By collaborating closely with clients and tailoring my illustrations to their specific objectives, I am able to create images that not only capture attention but also convey the right message to the intended audience.

What messages are you trying to communicate with your art? And what do you think differentiates your approach from others?

I firmly believe that art serves as a source of solace and rejuvenation, but it also possesses the extraordinary power of communication. Through my artistic endeavors, I embark on a journey to explore the essence of our world, capturing profound messages that resonate within our souls. My intention is to provoke deep contemplation and inspire others to perceive the complexities of our existence from various perspectives.
What sets my approach apart is my ability to merge traditional cultural influences with contemporary techniques, resulting in artworks that are both distinct and relatable. I strive to create art that goes beyond visual aesthetics, aiming to evoke thoughts, emotions, and meaningful discussions. Drawing from my experience as an interface designer, I bring a practical and problem-solving mindset to my artistic process, ensuring that my creations effectively convey the intended message to the intended audience.
Ultimately, my objective is to produce art that transcends mere beauty and becomes a catalyst for meaningful impact. I seek to create works that leave a lasting impression, inviting viewers to engage in a profound and thought-provoking experience.

In your statement, you say that your illustrations want to "communicate a message of hope and possibility." How do you achieve this goal?

My illustrations are a conduit for spreading optimism and instilling a sense of boundless potential in the hearts of viewers. Through vibrant colors, dynamic compositions, and whimsical imagery, I strive to evoke joy and wonder, painting a picture of a world brimming with possibilities. Each piece weaves uplifting themes and narratives, celebrating our inherent resilience and reminding viewers that hope persists, even in the face of adversity.
Furthermore, I aspire to ignite the imagination and nurture a creative outlook in those who engage with my art. By presenting a fresh perspective and fostering a spirit of playfulness and curiosity, I seek to inspire viewers to dream expansively and envision a future filled with promise. In essence, I firmly believe that by communicating hope and embracing the realm of possibilities through my illustrations, I can contribute to the creation of a brighter and more positive world.

Beach day, Digital, 14x10 in, 2020 © Yun Yao

Winter memory, Digital, 14x10 in, 2020 © Yun Yao

You are also focusing on representation and inclusion. Can art help develop a discourse around those topics?

Yes, I hold a steadfast conviction that art possesses the transformative capacity to champion representation and inclusivity by initiating poignant dialogues and amplifying diverse voices. By creating art that celebrates diversity and fosters inclusion, we can contribute to building a more equitable and just society. As an artist, I am dedicated to utilizing my skills to shed light on marginalized communities and give voice to those often unheard or unseen.
Through my art, my intention is to ignite meaningful conversations and prompt viewers to engage in critical reflections regarding matters of representation and inclusion. I firmly believe that art possesses the ability to inspire change and cultivate empathy, fostering a deeper understanding of the experiences and perspectives of others.

How has your art evolved over the years? And what inspired you to experiment?

Throughout my artistic journey, I have undergone a profound transformation, embracing new mediums and techniques that have enriched my creative expression. While my early focus was on refining my skills in traditional mediums like watercolor and ink, I eventually ventured into the realm of digital illustration and design. This shift opened up a world of possibilities, allowing me to explore diverse techniques and styles that resonate with my unique artistic vision.
In this ever-evolving artistic landscape, I draw inspiration from fellow artists, designers, and illustrators who fearlessly challenge conventions and push the boundaries of their craft. Their relentless pursuit of self-discovery fuels my own creative fire, urging me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace experimentation. It is through this continuous exploration and willingness to take risks that I strive to create artwork that is both innovative and captivating.
As I continue to evolve as an artist, I am driven by a deep desire to create work that feels fresh, authentic, and impactful. The inspiration I derive from visionary artists fuels my passion for pushing artistic boundaries and constantly redefining my creative identity.

Star child, Digital, 20x30 in, 2022 © Yun Yao

Is there any other medium or technique you would like to incorporate into your practice?

Throughout my artistic journey, I have always embraced the exploration of different mediums and techniques as a source of inspiration and growth. While my focus has primarily been on illustration and painting, my curiosity has led me to venture into new artistic territories. Lately, I have found myself captivated by the world of sculpting and ceramics, enticed by the prospect of creating tangible three-dimensional pieces with my own hands.
This newfound fascination has ignited a sense of excitement within me, as I eagerly embark on this artistic exploration. I am eager to immerse myself in the world of sculpting and ceramics, pushing the boundaries of my comfort zone and delving into uncharted artistic territory. By experimenting with new materials and mastering novel techniques, I hope to infuse fresh dimensions into my artistic practice.
Sculpting and ceramics present me with unique challenges that differ from those encountered in painting and illustration. Understanding form and texture in three dimensions requires a heightened sense of perception and a deeper understanding of spatial relationships. As I embrace these challenges, I am confident that this artistic endeavor will not only lead to the creation of novel and captivating works but also foster my personal growth and artistic development.
By expanding my artistic repertoire to include sculpting and ceramics, I am poised to embark on an exciting journey of self-discovery and artistic evolution. The incorporation of these new mediums into my practice holds the promise of unveiling fresh perspectives, enhancing my artistic versatility, and enabling me to create a diverse range of compelling artworks.

Where do you see yourself and your work in five years from now?

In envisioning my artistic path five years from now, I anticipate a continuous evolution and growth in my skills as an artist. My passion for exploration and experimentation will drive me to delve into new themes and ideas, constantly seeking fresh inspiration for my work. A particular area of interest that I hope to pursue further is sculpture and the realm of three-dimensional art forms, as I am drawn to the tactile and immersive nature of these mediums.
Looking ahead, I aspire to reach a broader audience with my art. Whether it be through gallery exhibitions, public installations, or other platforms, I aim to share my creative vision and engage in meaningful conversations with viewers. I firmly believe in the transformative power of art, and I hope to utilize my work as a catalyst for connection, understanding, and positive change in the world.
As I navigate my artistic journey, I remain committed to pushing the boundaries of my craft. I will continue to explore diverse mediums and techniques, seeking to expand my artistic repertoire and challenge myself creatively. With an unwavering determination to surpass my previous achievements, I eagerly anticipate the exciting opportunities and possibilities that lie ahead.
In summary, my vision for the next five years is one of continuous artistic development, expanded horizons, and meaningful impact. By embracing new mediums, reaching wider audiences, and pushing the boundaries of creative expression, I am confident that my artistic journey will lead me to uncharted territories of inspiration and fulfillment.

The year of Rabbit, Digital, 10x13 in, 2023 © Yun Yao

And lastly, what are your plans for the future? Do you have any exhibition or collaboration you want to share with our readers?

As an artist, my journey is marked by a relentless pursuit of growth and exploration. Looking ahead, I am fueled by the desire to push my boundaries and chart new creative territories. In the coming years, I envision a path of continuous experimentation and evolution, where I will delve into diverse themes and mediums to expand my artistic repertoire and refine my unique vision.
With an unwavering commitment to self-improvement, I will actively seek out fresh inspirations and challenges that will propel my artistic development. By embracing new themes, I aim to deepen my understanding of the world and explore its complexities through my work. Likewise, by venturing into uncharted mediums, I hope to uncover new channels of expression that will enable me to convey my artistic voice with greater depth and nuance.
Throughout this creative journey, I am conscious of the importance of maintaining an open mind and cultivating a sense of curiosity. I will embrace the unknown, fearlessly stepping outside of my comfort zone and embracing the uncertainty that comes with artistic exploration. It is through this process that I will discover unexpected connections, ignite fresh insights, and ultimately cultivate a body of work that reflects my evolving artistic vision.

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