Meet Yang Qian | Illustrator & Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Yang Qian and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Yang, looking back, what do you think was the most difficult decision you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever had to make was choosing to leave behind the financial management path I had pursued during my bachelor’s degree. After graduating, I found myself becoming less interested in terms and figures and more uncertain about my future. I was troubled about what to do next until it occurred to me that drawing had been a constant passion of mine since childhood. It wasn’t an easy choice, but I decided to chase my dream of becoming an artist. I spent months creating artworks and eventually got the opportunity to study illustration in-depth. It was a challenging leap, but one that allowed me to align my career with my passion.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I like to combine traditional watercolor techniques and digital media in my artworks. With a focus on storytelling illustrations, I create vibrant, warm children’s book illustrations. I’ve always believed that art is a powerful way to communicate feelings and ideas, and my goal is to resonate with people through that emotional depth, especially by creating visuals that feel both imaginative and heartfelt.
It’s not that easy to get to where I am today because I have to navigate a new and highly competitive industry. Along the way, I learned that perseverance and confidence are important. There were times I doubted myself, but I overcame those moments by reminding myself of my passion for creating art.
I want the world to know that my art comes from a place of deep emotion and love for storytelling. Whether it’s children’s books or other projects, my goal is to create images that resonate with people’s experiences and feelings. I hope my work can inspire others to follow their own creative paths, no matter how difficult or unconventional they may seem.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’d love to start the week at Ponce City Market, which is one of my favorite spots. We could explore the shops which have so many original designs and also art prints, then grab something to eat at the Central Food Hall and enjoy the rooftop amusement park, Skyline Park, for some games and an incredible view of the city.
We would also spend some time relaxing at Piedmont Park, walking through its gardens, and maybe having a picnic. After that, we could visit the High Museum of Art in Midtown to enjoy some artworks and get some inspiration.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe a lot of my success to the support and encouragement of my family, who stood by me when I made the difficult decision to leave behind a stable career path and pursue illustration. It is not a common practice in my hometown, and most families hope their children to follow a stable career path. Although my parents don’t know much about art, they still believe in my creativity and helped me build my confidence in taking that leap. They also took good care of my cat who has been a spiritual support and my inspiration in my drawings. I also like to recognize my teachers, professors and friends. They have been guiding me along my way pursuing my dream, offering valuable advice. Without their love, guidance and encouragement, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Website: https://www.yangqianart.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yang_qian_art?igsh=MTgzaTYyaHk2bmZkdw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086176965598&mibextid=LQQJ4d