Today we’d like to introduce you to Helen Jee.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
From a very young age, I’ve had a passion for drawing. I used to sketch in my notebooks during different classes. I enjoyed creating my own stories and sketching characters from my favorite anime. So when it came time for university, I naturally gravitated towards studying animation, thinking it was the perfect fit for me. However, after four years of rigorous study, I realized that I was more drawn to storytelling and creating static illustrations rather than making characters move. People often commented on my art, saying, “Your drawings evoke entire stories in my mind upon first glance.” Perhaps this is where my true talent lies.
Additionally, I grew weary of being required to take classes in subjects like 3D modeling and programming that didn’t align with my interests. Therefore, during my postgraduate studies, I decided to apply for the illustration major. Studying at the School of Visual Arts is a regretless decision. Graduating just last May, I can say it has been an incredibly rewarding experience overall. Over these two years of studying illustration, I’ve made a lot of good friends, honed my drawing skills, developed a distinct art style, and created many more of my original stories. There were so many freedoms in this program I chose; every day, I get to draw whatever I please, and every day is filled with joy.
Now, I’ve achieved my dream of becoming a freelance illustrator. While my career is still in its early stages, I am thrilled to have reached this point.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I used to struggle to find my art style, I felt confused and anxiety overwhelmed me. Then, I found the solution: just keep drawing. I’ve always believed that Practice makes perfect is the ultimate answer, and too much anxiety only leads to further self-doubt. By drawing every day, many of my issues naturally resolved themselves.
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?
I’m currently a freelance illustrator. I take commissions from game companies and go to conventions all around the world. I specialized in illustrations, book covers, comics, and visual development for animation. People like my colors and storytelling. I think my art style is unique, it gives the audience a fairytale-like and warm feeling all the time.
“Saleh the Guard” is a comic book I created in my first year in SVA, it was successfully published in China recently. My thesis project, “Chasing Blue,” which I compiled into a book resembling an animation art portfolio. It received great acclaim at last year’s Lightbox Expo in California.
Any big plans?
I will draw more, of course. And I’ll probably move to California from New Jersey. Jersey City is great, but too expensive. Also, I found there are way more conventions in CA rather than here, so this is the second reason.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.helenjee.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/helenjeeeee/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/helenjeeeee
