Daily Inspiration: Meet Rina Shin

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rina Shin.

Hi Rina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hello, thank you for having me.

When I was little, both of my parents used to draw for me. I think that influenced my interest in arts. Aside from drawing, I have always been attracted to the artistic side of things such as dancing, baking, and decorating. When I was thinking about what I wanted to do after high school, I considered art schools. I didn’t know what job I would get with an art degree but I was pretty sure learning academics was not going to make me happy. Regardless, I was set on going to college because I had no clue on what I wanted to do.

In my senior year of high school, I was accepted into Art Center College of Design in Pasadena and I am currently studying Illustration.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I have moments of self-doubt now and then. I see the demand for digital illustration and animation and think that what I am doing will be dismissed and not utilized because my analog works are not on trend.

One of the best challenges was when I took up a contemporary fine art class. Initially, I felt like an outlier because my style was comparable to Children’s Picture Books, while everyone else was working on large, more “upscale” paintings. I had a hard time connecting and expressing the emotional side of things when I was asked by my teacher.

However, that was an incredible experience because it extended my horizons and changed the way I approach each project idea, all while giving me a greater passion for art-making.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I make watercolor illustrations in lifestyle and homemaking genres. My focus is creating heartfelt images that point to the tender moments and generate the feeling of magic, happiness, nostalgia.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I enjoy the pleasant weather. It’s something you don’t have to worry about because you can remove it from your mental calculation. I’m able to focus on other things and know it will always be pleasant outside.

I wish LA’s public transportation systems were more efficient. However, I am hopeful because the city is currently building more metro lines, which means more people will likely use public transportation in the future.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: rinashinart.com
• Instagram: Brushinn