Today we’d like to introduce you to Wenjia Wang.
Hi Wenjia, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
After getting my MFA in illustration, I began sending out hundreds of promotional emails to art directors and participating in art fairs. The feedback from these emails was limited, which dealt a blow to my self-confidence. However, engaging in art fairs reignited my joy in sharing my work with others. Through this experience, I connected with numerous individuals who supported and admired my work, significantly boosting my confidence. Additionally, I forged friendships with fellow illustrators who shared similar struggles, creating a supportive community.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As a foreigner starting a career as a freelance illustrator, I’ve encountered my fair share of struggles. Fortunately, I have a wonderfully supportive family backing me up. I am now holding an O1 visa, which would enable me to work as an artist in the United States. This journey has certainly required a significant amount of effort alongside my creative endeavors. However, the visa application process has also propelled me to seek out new opportunities and push myself further in my field.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I engage in a variety of commissioned work, ranging from magazines to children’s books to album covers and so on. Diverse projects like these not only invigorate me but also instill a sense of accomplishment, motivating me to continually strive for excellence within the industry.
Most recently, I completed a project involving puzzle production. I crafted a series of illustrations using a circular composition—a departure from the conventional rectangular format. This project marked the puzzle company’s first foray into circular puzzles, presenting a significant challenge for both them and myself. The Puzzle itself sold very well; one of them even sold out in the first month of lunching!
As an illustrator, this venture introduced me to the intricacies of puzzle design for the first time. It wasn’t merely about creating visually appealing images; I also had to ensure that each puzzle piece provided sufficient visual cues to assist players in finding their rightful place within the larger picture. This experience not only expanded my skill set but also reinforced the importance of meticulous attention to detail in my work.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Engaging in professional events, participating in art fairs, submitting work to competitions, and consistently posting on social media are essential components of staying active in the industry. Ultimately, it’s about putting yourself out there and continuously creating.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wenjia-wang.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wenjiaart/
