Today we’d like to introduce you to Xingtong Shen.
Hi Xingtong, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My name is Xingtong Shen, a freelance illustrator & paper engineer. People usually call me Star because that’s what my name means. I specialized in visual design and paper engineering for pop-up books, greeting cards, and editorials.
I was born on a tropical island in the southernmost part of China. While growing up, my parents had demanding jobs, which allowed me ample time to indulge in my passion for art and crafts. In those early years, long before I knew about the enchantment of pop-up books, I found joy in designing clothes for my dolls. Encouraged by my family’s belief in my potential, I made the decision to pursue studies in Fashion Technology during my university years, embarking on a journey of artistic design.
However, life has a way of surprising us and taking us down unexpected paths. It was in 2019 I received a precious gift from a friend on my birthday—a pop-up book “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” by Robert Sabuda. As I opened the pages of that book, I was transported to a magical world filled with wonder and awe. In that moment, a spark ignited within me, fueling a deep fascination for the art of paper engineering. I began collecting various pop-up books and immersing myself in the world of creating my own. To my astonishment, my very first book, “The City of Mountains,” gained recognition online, capturing the attention of creative companies who approached me for collaborations and requested my designs for greeting cards. The overwhelming joy and recognition I received from creating pop-up books surpassed all my previous experiences in fashion design. It was at that point that I made a conscious decision to shift my focus and pursue book design as my true passion.
Prior to my venture into the realm of pop-up books, I had a humble background in illustration, having taken on various commissions during my high school years. Throughout my undergraduate studies in fashion, I acquired fundamental design skills, and my internship at a creative agency further shaped my artistic style. Seeking to expand my knowledge and refine my craft, I made my way to the United States to pursue a master’s degree in Illustration at the esteemed Maryland Institute College of Art. I enjoy interdisciplinary exploration, connecting the different fields of knowledge I have been exposed to at various stages of my life. My graduate book, “Everything you need to know about Mars” is based on the research I accumulated during my previous studies in fashion technology. These experiences not only provided me with invaluable skills but also introduced me to the captivating world of paper engineering.
My journey of learning paper engineering has been an ongoing process. I devoted myself to studying existing pop-up books in the market. Watching online video tutorials, particularly those by Duncan Birmingham, became my guiding light. In addition, I found immense value in “The Complexities of Pop-Up” by David A. Carter and James Diaz, a trusted resource that helped breathe life into my ideas. It’s fascinating to discover the parallels between designing clothes and creating books—the art of “building” something from scratch, starting with an idea and experimenting with various materials and techniques. Both require a keen eye for visual storytelling, extending beyond mere words. I like to create works for things I like, such as places I like to go, food I like to eat and books I love to read. I am more motivated when I do these things. Also interestingly, I just realized that my lifelong interests, from sewing to playing with building blocks like LEGO, have all played a role in shaping my creative journey.
Upon entering the field, I discovered that full-time paper engineers are fewer in number than I initially imagined. Many of my friends pursue paper engineering as a side passion. Sometimes, it feels like a solitary profession, haha. Thus, I’m truly grateful for The Movable Book Society. Through the society, I’ve had the opportunity to meet many talented members who share a passion for paper engineering. It’s a wonderful platform for connecting with like-minded individuals, exchanging ideas, and fostering a sense of camaraderie.
Currently, I am fortunate to work as a freelance artist based in New York. This year has brought me incredible opportunities as I have a pop-up book and a children’s picture book set to be published. In addition to taking commissions, I have also collaborated with friends to design greeting cards and art books, which we sell at art markets in New York. My aspiration is to continue dedicating myself to making pop-ups as my main focus for an extended period of time.
Email: starshen1999@gmail.com
Website: starshen.net
Ins: @paperstarfish
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Becoming an artist and a designer has been quite a journey for me, and I must admit it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. I’ve encountered my fair share of challenges along the way, and they’ve shaped me into the strong and determined artist I am today.
One of the major struggles I faced in this industry is the scarcity of opportunities and resources. It often felt like I had to pave my own path and figure things out independently. The lack of a supportive network made me feel isolated at times as if I was fighting this battle on my own.
Being an entrepreneur in the creative world requires much more than just artistic talent. It demands a range of skills beyond the realm of artistry, such as effective communication and networking abilities. I had to step out of my comfort zone and learn how to promote myself and my work confidently. It’s been a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, as I’ve had to develop a well-rounded set of skills to thrive in this competitive industry.
Despite the challenges, I’ve embraced them as opportunities for growth. Each hurdle has taught me valuable lessons and fueled my determination to succeed. I’ve learned to be resourceful, resilient, and adaptable, all of which have been instrumental in carving out my own path in the art and design world.
In the end, the struggles have made the journey all the more rewarding. I take pride in my accomplishments and the unique perspective I bring as a female artist and designer. I’m passionate about what I do, and that passion has been the driving force that pushes me forward, no matter the obstacles that come my way.
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?
As an illustrator and pop-up book designer, my work revolves around the fusion of illustration and paper art. I specialize in creating captivating three-dimensional worlds that come to life when the pages of my books are opened. It’s a unique blend of storytelling, craftsmanship, and visual artistry that sets my work apart.
I’m thrilled to share that this year, I will be publishing two books that showcase my artistic endeavors. These books not only highlight my skills as an illustrator but also demonstrate my expertise in designing intricate and engaging pop-up structures. It’s a true labor of love to see my illustrations transform into tangible, interactive experiences.
One aspect that brings me immense joy is creating art inspired by things I love—whether it’s food, places, or works of literature and film. I find inspiration in everyday delights and use my artistic expression to capture their essence and evoke emotions in viewers. Many people have resonated with my work because it has a down-to-earth quality and a soothing effect. The ability to create art that provides a sense of comfort and healing is something I’m particularly proud of.
What sets me apart from others in the industry is my distinctive style and my expertise in combining illustration with paper engineering. I strive to create visually stunning and emotionally resonant artworks that transport viewers into enchanting worlds. By blending storytelling with intricate pop-up structures, I aim to create an immersive experience that captivates the imagination.
Overall, I take pride in my ability to bring joy and a touch of magic to people’s lives through my illustrations and pop-up books. It’s a fulfilling journey as an artist to see my work appreciated for its relatable nature and its ability to provide a sense of solace and tranquility in this fast-paced world.
Contact Info:
- Website: starshen.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paperstarfish_/
Image Credits
Xingtong Shen
