Today we’d like to introduce you to Jen Yoon.
Hi Jen, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’m a Korean illustrator living between two cities, New York City and Seoul.
I used to work for a design company. Work is mainly about creating gif animations, wallpapers, and emojis. Since the company had its own style, I had to fit into its simple and cute aesthetic. Looking back at it, It was a totally different drawing compared to what I’m doing right now. It was laid back at work, but mentally I was drowning. One night, it suddenly dawned on me that I can’t imagine my future if I settled down here.
Then, other decisions were easy. I quit the job, moved to NYC, started to study at SVA, and looked for new opportunities there. My professor Yuko Shimizu said that there will be tough 3-5 years after you graduate and try to settle down as a freelancer. It surely did. About three years at the beginning of my career, works were inconsistent and budgets were low. However, with the support from artists and clients who believed in me, I went through those years. I still appreciate those opportunities in my early stage, and try to share that with other artists.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I think most freelance artists are struggling with the business side of their work. It would be great if you only meet great clients. However, especially during the first three years of freelancing, there were many scams and frauds. They were exploiting new artists’ desperateness. I always wished that people reached out to artists knowing that those artists are people, not products.
Work-wise, I’ve been totally satisfied with freelancing. Even though the project seemed challenging to me style-wise, it always ended up improving me as an artist.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My illustration style is focused on detailed line drawings. I use a lot of metaphors and symbols to deliver the story. Since I’m always looking for fun and new things, I always try out new technologies when they’re released. Recently, I jumped into Augmented Reality using a QR code. Before that, I was mainly doing animated illustrations using Adobe Fresco and After Effects.
I consider myself a visual storyteller, delivering the story that was often hidden or neglected. Illustrations are a great medium to draw people’s attention instantly with pleasant colors and forms. Then, tell the important message that needs to be told.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
It’s the city of Martin Luther King Jr. It’s a monumental place, and there is a Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, which I’d love to visit later. Also, the weather. Compared to NYC winter, it seems like Atlanta is a better place for winter break. Lastly, all those sweet desserts in Atlanta. Sweet potato pies and banana puddings are on my must-eat list.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jenyoonart.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenyoonart
