Today we’d like to introduce you to Johnny Chan.
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?
I’m an illustrator that draws quirky illustrations. I’ve liked drawing since a very young age, especially doodling and giving the characters in textbooks mustache, broken teeth, or even turning them into robots. But I never thought I would choose a career in art as I always see it just as a hobby until I got into an art school for college.
My genre changed a lot throughout the years, from very serious topics like life cycle to children’s materials to the quirky, slightly dark yet humorous style. But I will say it’s a journey that will never stop, especially since I’m still at the very beginning of my career.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s definitely not a smooth road, there are a lot of struggles along the way, from yourself and from people around you. Having to develop a style has always been a struggle for I think all the Artists, the more knowledge you’re exposed to the more your style gets developed, with a lot of experimentation and failure. There are also doubts about whether becoming an illustrator is the right choice, but I’m very lucky that my family and friends around me are very supportive of what I do.
They are also stuff like if there is anybody that would like my work? Will I be able to make a living off my work? A lot of questions about how would people see my work, as I have to admit that the work I produce is not generic or in the mainstream. Along the way, I met some great friends that are wondering about the same questions which definitely makes me feel less lonely on the journey.
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 make illustrations, mainly on the publishing side. I’m known for creating quirky, slightly horrifying yet humorous illustrations that people can’t resist looking at. When I show my work to other people and I see their smiles, that’s what I am most proud of, as I know that they are enjoying what I’ve made. I think this is also what sets me apart from other people as they are not seen so often, and there’s a unique sense of humor in the story I’m telling through the illustrations.
What does success mean to you?
To make an impact in the industry you’re in, to be inspirational, and to get you to chuckle.
Contact Info:
- Email: chanyatkiu002@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.thankkiuverymuch.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thank.kiu.very.much/
Image Credits:
Kyle Leal
