Meet Nina Tang | Freelance Illustrator/Visual development/Concept designer

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

Hi Nina, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Well, speaking from my own experience, I started off in this crazy work mode. But once that phase ended, I found myself not wanting to pick up a pen to draw for a really long time. Not good, you know? Especially when I’d hear my friends talking about hitting up extracurriculars even during holidays, which just made me feel anxious and stressed out, especially when I was in this period of not wanting to draw at all. So, I realized that this high-intensity work life wasn’t for me. I didn’t have any personal time at all when I was working so hard. Recently, I’ve found a more comfortable way to balance things out. Whenever I feel tired or uncomfortable, I make sure to do one or two things I enjoy, like going out for a walk or playing some games. Sure, it might slow down my work efficiency a bit, but overall, it keeps both my mind and body in a better place.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Hello, I’m Nina Tang, currently pursuing a degree in Illustration at Savannah College of Art and Design. I chose illustration as my major because of my childhood obsession with anime, which has always influenced and inspired me. My cultural background and passion for mythology further fuel my creativity. My art style favors book illustration, focusing on fantasy themes that have always appealed to me. Illustration is a way for me to express my emotions and life experiences.

In my work, I place a strong emphasis on the interplay of line and texture, a trait I most admire in the artist Nanaco Yashiro. Inspired by her plant-centered narratives and personal stories, I have gained valuable insights into the use of line in drawing. My strengths in a variety of artistic styles allow me to offer my clients the diversity that I hope to capitalize on in my career.

Getting to where I am today has been quite the journey, filled with lessons in both life and academics. One big lesson I’ve learned in life is the importance of managing time well. When you don’t balance work and personal time properly, it can mess up your body clock and affect your health. I practically burned the midnight oil for three years straight, and it took a toll on my health. Staying healthy should always come first.

In terms of academics, bravery stands out as a crucial lesson. It means daring to join various activities and competitions, daring to speak your mind, and daring to be yourself. Looking back, I regret not being brave enough to participate in many activities during my school days. That fear caused me to miss out on chances to show what I’m made of and connect with others. Being brave isn’t easy, but it is better than the regret and frustration that come later on.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If this were a week-long trip, I’d start by taking my friends to explore the High museums to get a taste of the local art scene. Then, we’d head to SkyView Atlantathe! The view of Atlanta from up high always boosts my mood. I’d also recommend trying out E Ramen, a ramen spot I love! And near Duluth, there are plenty of tasty Chinese and Korean restaurants to explore. There’s also a restaurant in Atlanta that I absolutely have to recommend! Rumi’s rumi’s kitchen! I adore their lamb chops appetizer – it’s absolutely delicious!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
First and foremost, I want to give a shoutout to my parents! Without their support, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today, nor would I have embarked on my journey into the world of art. Next, I’d like to express my gratitude to my twin sister Lydia. She’s been an essential presence in my life, providing me with invaluable assistance, both personally and professionally. We’ve been each other’s best teammates and sometimes even destined rivals. Also, a big shoutout to all my friends and professors at SCAD! Each one of them is incredibly talented and inspiring. The critiques and suggestions in class have been the fuel for my growth, while the post-class discussions and care have made me feel truly appreciated and supported.

Website: https://ninatang.art/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nininana_art/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nina-tang-93b0b21b3/

Image Credits
© 2024 Nina Tang