Meet Lora Qiu | Illustrator & Artist

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

Hi Lora, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?

Yes, I do. One of my favorite affirmations is ‘Yeah, just try it.’ It might sound commonplace, but it has truly transformed many of my perspectives. The word ‘try’ symbolizes engaging with the unknown and stepping out of the comfort zone. This phrase has enabled me to embrace richer experiences and gain a deeper understanding of myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a children’s illustrator, and I typically depict details in my drawings using hatching techniques, with the texture of pencils being a common element in my artwork. Over the past year, I have started experimenting with different materials in my illustrations. In the creation of my first picture book, I combined watercolors, colored pencils, and Photoshop. Later on, I began using mixed media, portraying characters with clay and felt, while incorporating dried flowers, beads, and textured paper for the environmental elements—all contained within a cookie box. This marked my venture into translating visual content into a three-dimensional environment, and the diversity of materials added a layer of interest to the artwork. Initially, I preferred digital methods for their convenience, but after witnessing illustrators combining printmaking with digital techniques, I decided to explore further. I delved into printmaking, creating illustrations on copper plates, and discovered the joy of traditional artistic expression. Subsequently, I explored more traditional painting techniques. While my artistic journey hasn’t been excessively challenging, it hasn’t been straightforward either. I believe the key lies in mindset—every endeavor presents difficulties, and the best approach is to promptly accept and contemplate how to overcome challenges. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment; only through trying different methods can you discover what suits you best. Regarding whether I wish the world to know me, I feel I haven’t achieved something monumental enough for global recognition. I see myself as still in the process of self-discovery. If, in the future, I want to make a difference and have a more significant impact, then I would certainly hope the world takes notice of my endeavors.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I think the best place here is Piedmont Park; I really enjoy taking walks there, so in my plans, a stroll in the park is definitely a must. Cafe Intermezzo is one of my favorite restaurants; it’s perfect for afternoon tea, and the evening ambiance is great for a date. Another restaurant at Colony Square, Rumi’s Kitchen, is also a favorite of mine. I find their lamb chops delicious, and the restaurant’s decor is quite appealing. On weekends, we can have brunch at Le Bon Nosh and then go shopping in Buckhead Village. Ponce City Market is also a place worth visiting. Atlanta has many delicious Korean restaurants, such as Daebal House for ribs, Gop Chang on Fire for beef intestines, and Dish Korean Cuisine, which is also quite good. I think the best bubble tea is from Tea Top, and Okiboru serves the best ramen in Atlanta, in my opinion. Atlanta often hosts concerts, so if there’s a performance by a favorite band or artist, it’s a great opportunity to attend a show.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
On my artistic journey, there are many people I would like to express gratitude to. When I felt anxious about my own work, the words of my professor encouraged me. In terms of my illustration style, I pondered for a long time and faced confusion. During a conversation with my professor, she mentioned that, rather than focusing on a specific style, she was more interested in understanding the kind of artist I wanted to become. This statement sparked inspiration in me. I have many friends around me who have been a great help, especially during times when I was perplexed about my own creations. They assisted me in contemplating how to enhance my work. I used to be a bit self-conscious, but my friends and professors have given me a lot of strength, boosting my confidence significantly.

Website: loraillu.art

Instagram: loart00

Other: email: IllustratorLora@gmail.com

Image Credits
Lora Qiu