How Fashion Inspired Illustrator

Illustration by Janus Leong

1. If illustration is a friend who has been with you for a long time, what does it look like in your mind?

Huanhuan Wang: For me, illustration is like a pair of needle-threading hands, skillfully weaving imagination into visual narratives, bringing ideas to life with precision and creativity.

Janus Leong: In my mind, illustration is like a naked and indistinguishable individual, capable of endless variations. It is monochromatic yet adaptable, able to take on different shapes, colors, and styles to convey diverse emotions and messages in countless ways.

2. How did you become an illustrator? Do you like the label?

Huanhuan Wang: I became an illustrator after studying in France in 2018 and pursuing further education in illustration in Paris and Brussels. After graduating, I settled in Paris and started working as a full-time illustrator. I see myself more as a storyteller, and illustration is a means for me to express my ideas visually. I do appreciate the label of being an illustrator as it allows me to convey my creativity and storytelling through visual art.

Janus Leong: Becoming an illustrator has been my primary goal in recent years. I have explored various forms of artistic expression, and I found that painting gives me the opportunity to fully unleash my creative potential. I enjoy the label of being an illustrator as it encapsulates my passion for creating visual narratives and sharing my ideas through art.

3. Where are you based now and who do you work for?

H: I am currently based in Paris, France. Recently, I have been researching and exploring the realm of NFT (Non-Fungible Token) art while also working on writing stories.

J: I am currently living in Shanghai, China. I have been immersing myself in the vibrant city life and contemplating if it is the right place for me to continue my creative journey.

Illustration by Huanhuan Wang

Illustration by Janus Leong

Illustration by Huanhuan Wang

4. How does your love of fashion influence your style?

Huanhuan Wang: Fashion has a significant influence on my illustration style as it offers visual inspiration in terms of character, color, and style. I often draw from the visual designs of fashion when I practice my illustrations, incorporating elements of fashion into my artwork.

Janus Leong: My love for fashion actually predates my passion for illustration. Some of my favorite designers, such as John Galliano and Alexander McQueen, have a unique and dramatic aesthetic that inspires me. Their unconventional approach to fashion, with bold and sometimes eccentric designs, encourages me to create styles that may not conform to mainstream tastes.

5. How do you usually start a project? What is your preferred creative environment?

H: Typically, clients approach me with commissions to create illustrations. As a recent graduate, I take on available work opportunities. I enjoy listening to audiobooks while I paint, finding that words are an essential source of inspiration for my creativity.

J: I have a systematic approach to starting a project. I begin by brainstorming a variety of words that are relevant to the theme of the project, even if they may seem unrelated at first. I then combine these words to create a unique and sometimes unconventional concept. I prefer to work in solitude, allowing myself to fully immerse in my thoughts without distractions.

6. What's your secret to staying inspired and motivated?

H: Reading, watching films, and practicing drawing regularly are my sources of inspiration. Words play a crucial role in my creative process, transporting me to a world of fantasy and imagination.

J: I find inspiration in various aspects of life, such as my dreams, films, books, and even the patterns of everyday objects. Keeping an open mind and constantly exploring new ideas helps me stay motivated in my artistic pursuits.

7. Have you noticed any new dream clients during the recent fashion week? Why do you want to work with them?

H: Currently, I feel blessed to work with any brand that I collaborate with. I am open to working with the right fashion brand that aligns with my artistic vision and values.

J: Maison Margiela is a dream client for me due to my admiration for their creative director, John Galliano, who is one of my favorite designers. Their innovative and avant-garde approach to fashion resonates with my artistic sensibilities, and I would love to collaborate with them.

8. What kinds of tools do you typically use, and how do they impact your work?

H: I primarily use electronic drawing software for my illustrations, but I am also actively exploring traditional paper drawing techniques to diversify my artistic style.

J: I use an iPad and Procreate for my commercial work, as the software allows me to simulate real brushes and achieve a close resemblance to traditional paper painting. However, for my personal practice, I prefer using charcoal, pastel, and plain paper, as they give me a sense of connecting with the soul of my work. Currently, I do not use traditional tools for client work due to the need for revisions and modifications.

Illustration by Janus Leong

Illustration by Huanhuan Wang

9. As an independent illustration artist with more free time, how do you organize your day?

Huanhuan Wang: In the morning, I dedicate time to reading, usually using my Kindle or paper books. I turn off all my social apps to fully immerse myself in my reading. In the afternoon and evening, I focus on my illustration work, dedicating time to painting. If I'm not feeling inspired, I may watch a movie in the evening to unwind.

Janus Leong: My daily routine is quite irregular, but I generally spend about 2/3 of my time on life's chores and 1/3 of my time on creative projects.

10. What would you consider doing without considering the reality if you don't do illustration anymore? Why?

H: When I was young, I always wanted to be an illustrator and a writer. If I didn't have to consider reality, I would pursue my passion for writing stories without worrying about readership or earnings, and create whimsical and imaginative tales.

J: If I didn't pursue illustration, I would still continue to paint, but I would likely switch to using oil paints as my medium. Painting has always been a part of my creative expression, and I would continue to explore different mediums to express my artistic vision.

Illustration by Janus Leong

11. How would you comment on your past works and what kind of works are perfect in your opinion?

H: I would describe my past works as 'daydreams' - personal illustrations that are not commercially oriented, with a rich, dense, and evocative emotional flow. I believe that a work that creates an 'emotional' connection with the viewer is rare and perfect in my opinion.

J: I view my past works as sincere but perhaps immature. For me, perfection lies in the creative process itself, where every thought, struggle, and effort put into a piece makes it perfect, regardless of the end result.

12. Please recommend some fashion designers you admire!

H: I have a deep appreciation for Thierry Mugler's work and artistic vision.

J: Some fashion designers that I admire are John Galliano, Alexander McQueen, Issey Miyake, Thom Browne, and Stephen Jones. Their unique styles, creativity, and innovation in the fashion industry have always inspired me.