Artist in conversation: Yuanhao Tang
“some of the most touching and meaningful aspects of life are hidden within minor details and our daily routines”
Yuanhao Tang is a dedicated illustrator whose work primarily serves the young adult and adult illustration market. His unique style, characterized by bold line work and flat colors, brings an exceptional flair to his creations. Yuanhao's inspiration comes from the vibrant personalities and intriguing events he encounters in his surroundings, adding a unique perspective and conceptual depth to his work.
His illustrations often carry a mysterious allure, defying reality while captivating audiences. However, beyond the aesthetics, Yuanhao's primary mission as an artist is to bring joy and stimulate the imagination of his audience through his creations. He regards this mission not merely as a goal but as a solemn responsibility accompanying his role as an illustrator.
Yuanhao is continuously honing his craft and expanding his creative horizons. His dedication to his work and commitment to his audience are evident in every piece he creates. With each stroke of his pen, Yuanhao Tang continues to captivate audiences with his imaginative, thought-provoking illustrations, making him a standout figure in the world of art and illustration.
What initially inspired you to become an artist, and how did you develop your unique style?
My grandparents had a whole bookshelf of picture-story books when I was a kid. I used to sit in their study room all day, reading those fantastic books whenever I went there. It was an exceptionally sweet and warm childhood memory, which is also my strongest suit and my deepest desire when I said I wanted to be an illustrator when I grew up. I was deeply inspired by the linear style from those books I read at my grandparents' place. I also conducted research on great illustrators like Moebius, Kilian Eng, and some fantastic Asian artists to gather even more inspiration in terms of style. Therefore, I formed my own style, building upon the influences of these giants, and I'm truly grateful for their accomplishments.
In terms of subject matter, what themes or motifs do you frequently explore in your work, and what draws you to these topics?
I find it interesting to draw inspiration from daily life and the events happening around us to generate ideas for a piece or a series of works. Sometimes, I'm drawn to small details rather than major events or shocking news; these small details can reveal a lot about who we are as people. Focusing on these little things often makes my pieces come to life and resonate more deeply with viewers.
My passion lies in spreading messages of peace and love, creating a fantasy world free from war, hunger, and poverty. These are the themes I am most eager to depict, and I want my artwork to radiate these positive vibes. However, I've realized that some of the most touching and meaningful aspects of life are hidden within minor details and our daily routines, such as the occurrence of small miracles. These moments are priceless, and they are the most valuable elements I aim to capture and convey in my artwork.
How do you navigate the balance between self-destruction and re-creation as a way towards conscious Happiness?
Sometimes, it can be incredibly challenging for someone to break away from their past, especially if it spans over the last two or three years. As someone who tends to be quite stubborn, I found it to be a difficult journey when I realized that I needed to transition from my former art style to my current one to advance in my career. It required letting go of old habits and finding a way to break through the "ice" that held me back. It was a challenging process, and I often doubted myself along the way. I likened it to shedding old skin, much like a snake, in order to grow and survive.
The truth is, once I tasted success after discovering my current style, I forgot all the suffering and doubt I experienced during the transition. Seeking positive feedback was crucial in helping me navigate through those difficult times. Finding balance is essential for artists; we are a group of individuals constantly evolving and adapting to the ever-changing trends in the world. It's normal for us to undergo frequent changes, and my artistic style is still evolving. So, I constantly remind myself to stay positive and focus on seeking positive reviews rather than expending energy on negative ones.
Can you discuss a specific piece or project that challenged you as an artist, and how you overcome those challenges?
I recently worked on a project focused on a medical equipment/devices campaign. The objective was to convey accessibility, positive vibes, and a sense of variety, among other elements. One of the challenges artists often face is learning to accept harsh criticism and feedback. It's impossible to please everyone, and there are times when you have to stand by your work and make your statement because it's your creation. The key is to avoid showing bias, especially in a project like the campaign I mentioned.
As I mentioned earlier, the goal was to showcase diversity in this campaign. Therefore, I portrayed figures and profiles. Some critics may question why the doctor is male or why the person is depicted as white, raising concerns about representation for people of color, for instance. I constantly remind myself to steer clear of biases and stereotype pitfalls as best as I can, and I believe I've done a commendable job in this regard. It's essential for artists to remain mindful of these considerations when working on significant projects.
How do you stay connected with other artists and keep up with new developments and trends in the art world?
Staying updated with current trends is crucial for artists as it can shape our careers, influence our artistic styles, and even provide insights into the future direction of the industry. To achieve this, I actively participate in contemporary art events, attend gallery shows, and engage with fashion exhibitions both online and in person. I also rely on my artist friends who work in various fields, such as concept art in the gaming industry, to gain a broader understanding of the sector's value.
Sometimes, the information I gather may not seem directly related to my work, but it serves as a means to stay connected with fellow artists. Engaging in discussions and sharing our work experiences around a table has proven to be both healthy and beneficial. It's a way for us to support each other through the artistic journey.
How do you incorporate feedback from critics and audiences into your artistic practice, and how do you balance this feedback with your own artistic intuition?
Personally, I've found that receiving criticism and negative reviews from audiences can be quite challenging and disheartening at times. Some critiques are quite direct and straightforward. However, this is an inherent aspect of being an artist—learning to handle such feedback and eventually benefit from it.
There are moments when I appreciate audience feedback because, from my perspective, I may not see any flaws in my work, especially in pieces I've invested a significant amount of time in. That's where the importance of more reasonable and objective voices comes into play. They help me gain clarity and remind me that there is always room for improvement.
I make an effort to remember most of the feedback and advice I receive from audiences, peers, and clients. I consistently incorporate these insights into my subsequent work. It's essential to sit down and listen when others provide feedback, fostering a sense of humility. I believe that being an artist is a lifelong journey of learning, and that's how I interpret it.
How do you stay motivated and inspired despite any setbacks or creative blocks you may encounter?
I'm always in pursuit of positive vibes, and while it may sound cliché, it truly helps me during moments of self-doubt and misery. It's essential to remind oneself that sitting around worrying about things won't lead to any solutions. For me, illustration is not just a hobby; it's my job and a responsibility. There are times when I can't simply say, "I quit." I can't, because if I can't excel in the skills I'm proficient at, then what am I?
Regardless of the circumstances, I never cease working in my sketchbooks. They serve to keep my hands and skills engaged and active. Every time I open them, I reinforce the belief in myself that I possess the ability and talent to excel. So, I try not to feel disheartened or doubt my capabilities.
How do you feel about exhibiting your artworks with The Holy Art Gallery?
Thanks for the opportunity! I am happy to present my work in your shows! I truly appreciate the dedication and effort you've invested in my campaign. I look forward to the possibility of collaborating further in the future.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as an artist, and how do you plan to achieve them?
I have a deep passion for creating editorial pieces and a lasting love for storytelling picture books. My initial goal is to excel in crafting editorial illustrations for magazines and newspapers. Once I reach this milestone, my aspirations extend to becoming a narrative illustrator, where I can work on publishing my own books and engage in original storytelling.
