What led you to become an illustrator?Since I was little, I was enchanted by beautiful illustrated books. I used to tear out magazine pages with artwork I loved and even collected candy and cookie wrappers with whimsical illustrations. Those images always brightened my day and made me feel that illustration could bring joy and positive energy to everyday life.Did you study illustration in college?Yes,I studied at Kingston School of Art in London, UK.Where do you live now and what drew you there?I divide my time between London and my hometown, Hefei in China. London keeps me connected to the creative world, while Hefei keeps me grounded with family and childhood memories.Describe your studio for usIt’s my happy place, part library, part playground. I have shelves full of illustrated books, drawers of art supplies I can’t resist, and it’s also a gathering spot where I host creative friends.Do you have a studio pet?Yes, my parrot Doudou, who often tries to give “feedback” while I work!Who or What is your biggest inspiration?I draw from many places, it’s hard to name just one. British printmaking, French comics, and Chinese papercuts have all shaped the way I see and create.What’s your favourite way to spend a day off?After a morning workout, I love heading to a park, garden, seaside, or café with my sketchbook and camera. Observing plants, people, and the little dramas of daily life always gives me new story ideas.Do you adopt any environmental habits to be more sustainable?I recycle everything from paper to ribbons and often reuse them in creative projects or workshops. I love finding ways to give materials a second life.Do you collect anything?I’ve always been a collector! Wrappers and stamps, later, stationery and CDs. Now I treasure illustration books and perfumes with unique scents.Who is your music hero?Ryuichi Sakamoto, for his ability to weave emotion into sound.If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go?It would be Iceland’s landscapes, I’d love to experience its beauty and escape the everyday hustle for a while.Is there any random thing you consider yourself an expert on?Cooking and photography, they are my other ways of creating!If a client paid you enough money to take a year off and create whatever you want – an open brief - no constraints - what would you deliver?I’d disappear into a nature reserve and create a series of animations celebrating the beauty and wonder of wildlife.Is there a type of job you haven't done yet, but would love to do?Yes, a brand animation campaign for a perfume or fashion house. I’d love to tell a story of heritage and craftsmanship through visuals that celebrate beauty. I’ve always been drawn to creations made with genuine care and artistry.How has your work or practice evolved over time?I’ve grown bolder in mixing mediums and styles, moving from purely still illustrations to animation and interactive work. I like exploring new ways to tell stories.If you were not an illustrator, what would you be?I’d be a teacher, sharing what I’ve learned about illustration and exploring creativity alongside others.What is the most challenging part of being an illustrator?Always wanting to take on different kinds of projects. Being curious and open to challenges is exciting, but it also means constantly stretching myself.Do you have any advice for other illustrators?Build a strong, versatile portfolio, and keep creating the kind of art you love. Resilience and passion are just as important as skill.