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

Hi Shirley, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
While I realize the illustration industry here has grown tremendously and more and more people recognize the professional individuals involved in it, there is a subset of those out there who still think of the profession of illustrator as a hobby. I specifically see a lot of this in my family and diaspora. They still recognize the traditional professions in educational, medical and business field as more stabile, which equals financial security. Another little-known issue is that many still think they can utilize freelance illustrators for free. In this day and age, I believe it is a practice which is highly crippling to the industry.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My illustrations range from minimalistic and sophisticated to soothing, colorful, and light-hearted. Contrary to what most professionals believe, I want the world to know that versatility is my strength in fulfilling the vision of each client’s projects. If that does not set me apart from others, then I do not know what could. When was the last time you came across a problem solver who loves all things oatmeal and all hot/warm drinks? I am excited for us to work together!

My proudest moment was when my 1792 Bourbon Bottle and Box Design series was lauded as one of the winners of the Red Dot Design Award in 2022. Many have deemed this to be the Academy Awards of the worldwide design world. The project goal is to entice female consumers due to their contribution to the rise of alcoholic beverage consumption and to embrace all genders. The most recent addition to the achievement list was Creative Quarterly 100 Best Annual 2022 for my Divination Wine Label Design series. I also have had the pleasure to be entrusted in creating and designing mascots and event promotional materials for JapanFest from the start of the pandemic on until 2023. JapanFest is the largest event celebrating the rich culture of Japan in the Southeast region, right here in Georgia. It takes place September 16-17 at Gas South District. Another brand new work will be exhibited in Georgia Tech Ferst Center for the Arts as a part of 二度と(NI DO TO): an XR pilgrimage exhibition and collaborative effort with KAMBARA+ (https://arts.gatech.edu/sankei/ni-do-to). The exhibition can be enjoyed until October 27. I still have another project to be hatched, however since it has not gone live yet, I am not at liberty to disclose it.

I am not going to lie. It has been challenging to reach the point where I am today. The key is to be persistent and diligent in promoting yourself. Another lesson I learned is to not be shy when interacting with new individuals. Each project I tackle, I always see it as a new opportunity to learn and improve.

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?
Since I am a big foodie and not too fond of outdoor activities, I would take them to various cafes and restaurants that will take their tastebuds from the East all the way to the West. A number of my favorite spots are in fact outside the city. Doraville, Duluth, Johns Creek, and Suwanee are among some of my favorite stomping grounds. When it comes to non-eating activities, I will suggest the High Museum of Art.

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?
I certainly would not be where I am today without the support and love of all my family and friends, even though my family may probably still question my career choice.

Encouragements of countless professionals and professors in the Illustration field surely have fueled my inner fire to charge forward. These are the individuals I will forever be indebted for my current and ongoing success: Rick Lovell, Tom Burns, Phivi Spyridonos, George Bates, Yoshi Domoto, Kazuko Lillie, Nicole Albertie, Yayoi Kambara, Courtney Ozaki, and the most important one, Thomas Miller.

Website: https://sushirley.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susshirley

Image Credits
sushirley.com

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