Today we’d like to introduce you to Sinki Huang.
Hi Sinki, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am currently working as an illustrator and graphic designer, but I didn’t have any formal training in art before changing my major in graduate school. However, drawing has always been my passion since childhood, perhaps something ingrained in my genes.
I pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Tourism Management at Beijing Forestry University. Later, I decided to start a career in illustration and made a transition to study Illustration at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) for my graduate degree. I successfully completed my Master’s program last summer.
When it comes to changing my major to illustration, there were two main reasons. Firstly, I have been passionate about drawing since I was a little girl. My father, being an architect, influenced me as I watched him draw architectural blueprints. This exposure sparked my interest in drawing. I participated in numerous drawing competitions during my elementary school years and won several awards, including national recognition.
Secondly, during my freshman year, I had an internship at Peerbridge University, where I worked as a graphic designer. This experience exposed me to poster and website design, and it was then that I realized my passion for design. Among various design styles, I found illustration to be the most captivating. In my third year, I became an illustrator and a graphic designer designing brochures, postcards, and other art derivatives for Beijing Silkroad & Sun Cultural Company. These experiences further developed my skills in picture composition, color blending, and other essential aspects of illustration. Consequently, I became determined to pursue further studies in illustration abroad.
In the summer of 2021, I successfully arrived in the United States and began my graduate studies. During my year at MICA, I gained a deeper understanding of illustration and expanded my creative thinking. I learned how to create impactful original artwork and effectively convey my ideas through visuals.
Living in Baltimore, a less bustling city, for a year allowed me to reflect on my journey. Life there was simple and joyful, with a routine focused on commuting between home and school. Although I encountered challenges such as struggling to decide on a thesis topic, feeling frustrated or fatigued from constant drawing, and questioning my love for art, I realized that drawing was still the most interesting and creative work for me. I believe those challenging moments were crucial for my rapid growth, as it is through pain that one improves quickly. While staying in my comfort zone would have been easier and more enjoyable, it would have hindered my progress and personal development.
Shortly after graduating from MICA, I moved to New York City, the cosmopolitan hub, where I started my first internship in the United States as a graphic designer and a pattern designer at FILA’s headquarters. As I gazed out from the office on the 30th floor of a building in Times Square, overlooking downtown Manhattan, I often felt overwhelmed with a sense of astonishment. The younger version of myself, even 10 years ago or 5 years ago, could never have imagined that one day I would be working in the heart of the busiest city, pursuing my dream career. The scenery resembled scenes from American movies I watched as a child, and now I became a part of that dream-like setting. On clear days, I could even catch a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty in the southern part of downtown Manhattan.
The contrast between life in New York and Baltimore is immense. Last summer, as I have mentioned before, I worked as a graphic design intern at FILA’s New York office. During work hours, I joyfully designed patterns and other graphics, and by 5 or 6 p.m., I embarked on another phase of the day. I often wandered around New York City with a group of photography enthusiasts, capturing classic cityscapes and candid shots of pedestrians. These spontaneous outings resulted in surprising and delightful photographs. My photography works often inspire my illustrations and enrich my artistic materials.
After completing my internship, I began searching for full-time design positions. Given the challenging job market in the United States, especially for someone without permanent residency or citizenship, finding a full-time position as an illustrator or graphic designer proved to be quite difficult. I sent out countless resumes, perhaps a hundred, three hundred, or even five hundred, but most seemed to vanish without a trace. The lack of response was disheartening and made me question whether I was not good enough. There were moments when I felt like giving up. However, with the encouragement and support of my friends, I persevered through the tough times of job hunting. In the end, the head of the design department at FILA, where I had previously worked, recognized my skills and referred me to a graphic design position at Staple Pigeon, a world-renowned streetwear brand in New York City. After a series of interviews, they were impressed with my abilities, and I happily started my career as a full-time designer and freelance illustrator.
It’s safe to say that I have been steadily making progress, one step at a time, and establishing myself in New York City.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
When I entered junior school, my parents were concerned that spending too much time on drawing would negatively impact my academic performance, so they didn’t allow me to draw frequently. Similarly, when it came to choosing my major in university, my parents had reservations about my pursuit of illustration due to their conservative view on the practicality of art as a career. They saw it more as an interest to develop rather than a viable way to make a living. Consequently, my mother strongly urged me to choose a major in management or economics, as they appeared to have better prospects. I had no choice but to comply with her wishes.
However, from the moment I started my freshman year, I realized that I had no interest in tourism management. I utilized my spare time to practice drawing, immerse myself in exhibitions, and dive into illustrated books. During my sophomore year, I diligently honed my skills in sketching and watercolor to establish a solid foundation for illustration. Additionally, I took advantage of art and design courses offered by my university, such as Traditional Chinese Painting and color theory, which further enhanced my illustration skills. Furthermore, I documented my travel experiences through illustrations, enriching my mind and stimulating my imagination. In secret, I even used the money I earned from part-time jobs during university to enroll in sketching and digital art courses, constantly striving to improve my artistic skills. I kept these pursuits hidden from my parents because I feared they would only discourage me from pursuing my dreams. However, when I reached a certain level of accomplishment, around my junior and senior years, I decided to confront my mother and express my desire to start a graduate degree in illustration. I explained that without it, I felt my life lacked purpose, and I shared my artwork with her. Ultimately, I managed to persuade my parents to support my decision to study illustration abroad, and they generously provided the necessary financial assistance for my graduate tuition and living expenses.
Despite the obstacles and challenges I faced along the way, the passion for illustration and the unwavering belief in my chosen path kept me motivated. Overcoming the initial resistance from my parents and the societal expectations associated with choosing a more conventional career path was not easy. However, their eventual acceptance and support allowed me to pursue my dream of becoming an illustrator.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Currently, I work as a graphic designer and Chinese social media manager at Staple Pigeon, a renowned streetwear brand in New York City. Additionally, I work as a freelance illustrator and photographer.
As an illustrator, I specialize in editorial and lifestyle work, as well as surface design. My illustrations are often inspired by dynamic and simple shapes, vibrant colors, and textures, which allow me to effectively convey emotions, fashion, and the world around us. I particularly enjoy incorporating subtle animations into my illustrations, as I find the process of creating motion graphics fascinating. My work revolves around themes of life, emotions, fashion, and nature. Moving forward, I aim to continue developing my colorful, dynamic, relaxed, and textured style of artwork because my ultimate goal is to draw with the freedom and joy of a child. I also hope that others can feel a sense of warmth and healing through my artwork.
Sometimes, I spontaneously set up a booth in Washington Square Park or Union Square Park in New York City, where I sell various merchandise featuring my illustrations, such as postcards, prints, children’s books, and comics. Many people were drawn to my artwork from a distance and approached me to express their admiration and mentioned they felt the warmth, love, and storytelling that my artwork conveys. Some people purchased my pieces on the spot. I recall one instance when a young woman inquired about larger prints. Although I didn’t have any available at the time, she left her contact information, requesting that I inform her if I were to release larger prints. She was determined to return and make a purchase or have them shipped to her. I was truly surprised and deeply moved by the recognition and encouragement I received from complete strangers. It truly inspires and uplifts artists to receive such support from chance encounters.
Regarding my photography, I focus mainly on capturing portraits and street photography. I am passionate about documenting real-life moments and the essence of the present. Through my photography, I aim to capture the authenticity and beauty found in everyday life. Whether it’s candid street scenes, vibrant cityscapes, or the unique characteristics of individuals, I strive to create images that evoke emotions and tell stories.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
I had a great passion for drawing from a young age and started picking up a paintbrush in kindergarten. My elementary school art teacher recognized my talent and invited me to join the exclusive art club, which was comprised of a select group of students. She encouraged me to participate in various local, regional, and even international drawing competitions. I received numerous awards and certificates at different levels, which further nurtured my artistic abilities and fueled my desire to pursue a career in the arts.
One particular childhood memory that stands out is when my art teacher selected me and a few other talented young artists to work together on a large canvas to create a flat map of our elementary school as a graduation gift for the school. It was my first time working on such a large-scale painting and using oil paints, which I previously considered to be a medium for more advanced artists. With guidance from our art teacher and dedicating several hours after school each day, we each chose a section of the canvas to showcase our creativity. The end result was an exceptional and imaginative representation of our beloved school that surpassed everyone’s expectations. I remember my school uniform being covered in various colors of paint, and my face, hands, and shoes were all messy, but it made me feel like a true artist. Those moments of wholehearted dedication to creating art are truly unforgettable and cherished, as they have become even rarer in my adult life.
However, as I entered middle school, my parents restricted my involvement in art, fearing it would hinder my academic performance. Nevertheless, I will always cherish the memories of my childhood, when I had the freedom and joy to express myself through art. I am grateful to my art teacher for nurturing my artistic journey and providing me with those early opportunities to explore my creativity.
Pricing:
- Illustration start from $80/hr （depends on projects）
- Photography start from $150/hr （depends on projects）
- Logo Design start from $80/hr（depends on projects）
- Website Building start from $3000 （depends on projects）
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sinkihuang.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sinkihuang_art
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinki-huang/
- Other: Little Red Book: https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/5a72c0864eacab7439937c6b?xhsshare=CopyLink&appuid=5a72c0864eacab7439937c6b&apptime=1650996117
