Mee Yuchen Cui | Freelance Illustrator ＆ Daydreamer

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

Hi Yuchen, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I grew up in China, and honestly, my childhood felt more lonely and bland than adventurous. Living away from my parents because of their jobs, I was that kid in the boarding school and then the one going to a foster family on weekends. Later, it was my grandma who looked after me through middle and high school. It’s weird, but being away from my parents so much made me kind of used to being on my own. Even when they tried to make up for lost time during my university years, I found it hard to reconnect.

I didn’t have much freedom to explore art because of school pressures, but I still managed to sneak in some drawing here and there. It was my little act of rebellion, I guess. University gave me a bit more space to dive into drawing and painting, to really get into it.

As I grew older, my parents’ need to exert control over my life became more evident, pushing me to act in ways they deemed fit. But honestly, I’m so tired of their demands and control. My craving for freedom often finds its way into my art, where I love to draw small animals. I see them as creatures of pure freedom, untethered by the constraints that I’ve had to navigate. In painting them, I’m not just admiring their world; I’m longing to be part of it, to live a life as unrestricted and free as theirs.

I’ve always been a big daydreamer, using my imagination to escape the loneliness and create a world where I wasn’t so isolated. My art is filled with bits and pieces of this ideal place I’ve always wished for. It’s a way for me to express those dreams of a better world, one that’s less about being alone and more about the beautiful things I imagine.

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.
My art is a reflection of my inner world, a place where I can freely express my emotions, dreams, and the longing for a reality untethered by the constraints of my upbringing. What sets my work apart is the infusion of my personal journey with a vivid imagination, often featuring elements that symbolize freedom and the beauty of the natural world. Animals, with their carefree existence, are a recurring motif in my pieces, representing my yearning for a life without boundaries. In my free time, I really enjoy playing video games, and I have a particular interest in game art, including concept design and character illustration. Immersing myself in the world of game art brings me a unique kind of joy that stands apart from anything else. The creative process not only allows me to explore new and fantastical realms but also helps in honing my drawing skills.

In the realm of game art, I blend my love for storytelling with my artistic abilities, crafting characters and worlds that could potentially become part of someone’s favorite gaming experience one day. This process of creation is immensely fulfilling; it’s a space where my imagination can run wild, and I can experiment with different styles and techniques.

I believe that painting has never been an easy task. While I agree that anyone can paint, surpassing the basic expression of emotions requires enhancing one’s technical skills. Learning to paint is a long and complex journey, and it necessitates a willingness to embrace solitude since painting is often a solitary activity. However, despite the challenges and loneliness that might accompany it, the moment you see your finished piece, all the effort feels entirely worthwhile. Seeing your vision come to life on the canvas, capturing the emotions and stories you wish to tell, is an unparalleled feeling. It serves as a testament to the value of perseverance, patience, and the continuous pursuit of growth in your craft.
I want the world to know that my art is more than just visuals; it’s a narrative of overcoming, of finding one’s place in the world despite feeling out of step with it. My brand is about embracing one’s unique story and channeling it into something beautiful and meaningful. Through my art, I aim to inspire others to pursue their passions, to find solace in their creativity, and to remember that it’s possible to carve out a space for themselves, no matter their background or the challenges they face.

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?
If my best friend was visiting, I would take them to experience the charming southern city of Savannah, where I currently live. Known for its year-round sunny weather and majestic old trees, Savannah offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history, and vibrant culture. We would start with a leisurely stroll through the historic district, admiring the meticulously preserved architecture and the Spanish moss hanging from the oak trees. Then, we’d enjoy brunch at The Collins Quarter at Forsyth, with views of Forsyth Park, delving into local legends at the Savannah History Museum in the afternoon, and capping off the day with a seafood dinner to taste the local flavors. Another day would be dedicated to immersing ourselves in the art and culture at the Telfair Museums and strolling through the shops and galleries along River Street. A visit to Leopold’s Ice Cream is a must, a famous ice cream parlor in Savannah where people queue up even in winter. My favorite is their banana-flavored ice cream, which is refreshingly light and not too sweet. This place is not just about tasting delicious ice cream; it’s also a great way to experience the city’s rich history and cultural atmosphere. Our adventure would conclude with a ghost tour in the evening, walking through the city center, visiting haunted locations and peculiar landmarks, and experiencing the thrill of Savannah’s haunted history. Savannah is a city that perfectly combines natural beauty, historical depth, and a touch of mystery, offering everything from leisurely walks and deep cultural dives to outdoor adventures and ghostly explorations at night.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
If I were to give a shoutout in my story, it would undoubtedly be to my grandmother. Amidst the solitude and the distance from my parents, my grandmother stood as a beacon of unwavering support and love. She provided not just a home but a sanctuary where my early dreams and inklings towards art were nurtured, albeit subtly. In my unpredictable teenage years, my grandmother was always there for me—understanding, caring, and a true companion. She was my emotional anchor, always. I’m also deeply grateful to my high school art teacher, who instilled confidence in me regarding my artwork and helped me embrace my creativity. He taught me the fundamentals of sketching and painting, laying the groundwork for all my future endeavors in art. His recognition and encouragement played a crucial role in my journey, providing the support I needed to keep moving forward. His belief in my potential was a vital source of motivation, reassuring me during moments of doubt and inspiring me to pursue my passion for art with unwavering dedication.

Website: https://yuccui20.wixsite.com/yustar

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yuccuistar?igsh=MTB1bHl2dDE4MHFreg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/yuchen-cui-3b0997296

Twitter: https://twitter.com/WestWHEATWHEAT

Image Credits
Yuchen Cui