Today we’d like to introduce you to Shirley Su.
Hi Shirley, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My love of Japanese anime and manga, ever since I was small, has set me on the creative path I’m still on today. I graduated with a B. F. A. degree in Communication Design from Parsons School of Design in New York City in 2002. Subsequently, I have more than ten years of experience in Illustration and Sequential Art, working with national and international clients/partners. I graduated with an M. F. A. degree in Illustration from Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta in 2022. I am excited to see what the universe prepares for the future.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My path has surely been long and winding. There have been struggles as I ranged between being a comic creator, a part of an independent comic magazine, and a freelance designer and illustrator. Nobody told us how much work it would be to start an indie magazine publisher. Although I was mostly involved in the publishing field, I am excited to expand my horizon to other fields also, especially the f&b packaging illustration projects. If I can share a piece of advice to those who are starting out on this path, it is: be ready to be financially challenged but embrace those with the same vision and passion because emotional support is as important, if not more than anything else. Another challenge back then was finding the right amount of work-life balance. Now, I truly believe having a balance of both will ensure your physical and mental health at their optimal level. Health = gold.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My proudest moment was when my 1792 Bourbon Bottle and Box Design series was lauded one of the winners of 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. JapanFest is the largest event celebrating the rich culture of Japan in the Southeast region, right here in Georgia.
My illustrations range from minimalistic and sophisticated to soothing, colorful, and light-hearted. Contrary to what most professionals believe, I believe 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? Let us work together!
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
All these years, I believe attending as many professional and nonprofessional gatherings in your field as possible seems to bear fruit to everyone…whether you are a novice or a veteran. Do not underestimate the power of nonprofessional gatherings. You will be surprised to see the variety of contacts you can find. Remember to also stay in touch with individuals from your alma mater, let them be classmates or faculty members. A piece of advice for the introverts out there: do not be shy with interacting and showing your work to strangers, because if you do not do so, who else is going to advocate for you? I used to be an introvert also but after my undergraduate years, one of my quite talkative friends helped me in opening up and being sociable. Promoting yourself = more future opportunities and/or paths.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sushirley.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sysshirley
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susshirley
Image Credits
sushirley.com
