Today we’d like to introduce you to Rui Cao.
Hi Rui, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Born in China, raised in Canada, and now living in the U.S. my passion for illustration was ignited by the captivating children’s illustration books I read as a child. This fascination led me to pursue a degree in illustration at OCAD University, where I honed my skills and developed a unique style that incorporates narrative storytelling and whimsical elements inspired by childhood experiences.
During and after school, I participated in various art fairs, including MoCCA Art Fest, which helped me gain exposure and connect with fellow artists and industry professionals. As my love for children’s illustration continued to grow, I began to explore the possibilities of incorporating my illustrations into 3D works, such as children’s toys.
In the past year, I have pushed the boundaries of my creativity by experimenting with different mediums and techniques to expand my skill set and bring new life to my illustrations. I believe that there is always room for growth and exploration in art, and I am committed to pushing myself to new heights as an illustrator.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When I made the decision to attend an art university, my family had concerns since they had initially encouraged me to pursue a career in medicine, law, or business. However, they soon recognized my passion for art and began supporting me.
Initially, I was uncertain about which path within the art field to pursue. Fortunately, I discovered illustration and fell in love with it. Despite not considering myself a naturally gifted illustrator, I persevered to find my artistic voice and to express meaningful messages through my work. I struggled with self-doubt, feeling that my early works were lacking in substance. However, after my first art fair, when someone purchased my work, I realized that my art could bring joy to others. This became my goal: to use my art to bring happiness and healing to people’s lives.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As an artist, I specialize in both digital and analog art, and I often use watercolor and colored pencil as my medium. I am known for my unique style of overlaying different types of textures together to imitate the original texture of the objects, which creates a visually engaging and realistic effect in my artworks.
In addition to my traditional art, I also have a love for 3D art and have developed innovative techniques to turn my illustrations into three-dimensional works. This has allowed me to explore different possibilities in my art and create pieces that are both visually striking and interactive.
What sets me apart from others is my ability to combine traditional and digital techniques in my work and my willingness to experiment with different mediums and techniques. I am always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of art and to express my ideas in fresh and innovative ways.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
I have a passion for photography, and I enjoy going out to shoot street photos whenever I have free time. What people may not know is that I have a collection of 14 cameras, including seven film cameras, four digital cameras, and three Polaroid cameras. I am particularly drawn to film photography because of the unique and unpredictable colors and effects it produces.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ruicaoillustration.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rui_0524/
