RAPID FIRE QUESTIONS: CISI LEE

“...we gradually consider the result of the creation and viewer’s feelings, rather than enjoying the creative process as before... I can’t completely ignore the results and the viewer’s feelings, so I like to start create at night, which will enable me to enjoy the creative process without being bothered”

Cisi Lee is an illustrator currently residing in Shenzhen, China. After graduating with a major in Landscape Environmental Art & Design from the Shenzhen University in 2013, she realised a career as an illustrator was perfectly suited to her strengths and personality.

Cisi has developed a strong personal illustrative style as well as unique observational methods for inspiring her work. “I am particularly fond of using twisted lines in my work. I often stay at the bus stations to observe individuals in the crowd because bus stops are magic place where I can be constantly stimulated and inspired by people going about their day-to-day lives. I like spending time at the bus stop because I can be quite anonymous and observe for a longtime without anyone paying attention to me.”

Cisi is always looking to challenge herself personally and has a thirst for new and stimulating experiences. She sees this as an integral part of her progression as an illustrator and artist.

You can enjoy more of Cisi Lee’s work in Pictoria Volume.1, The Best Contemporary Illustrators Worldwide

How would you describe your work?

Weird, green blush, provide much food for thought.

How do you go about creating your artwork? Do you prefer to work digitally or with traditional media?

I usually draw a draft with a pencil, then paint with the water soluble oil, and finally use a brush to outline. I prefer to use traditional media.

What are you working on at the moment?

I'm creating some artworks for my next exhibition.

Who or what are the top five inspirations for your work?

My inspirations usually comes from the people waiting at the bus stop, the people walking on the road, the books, my cat Milee and my life.

What's one resource every artist, illustrator or designer should know about?

Know yourself, explore yourself and paint yourself.

What is the most valuable lesson you've learned during your time working in the creative industries?

If you have enough money to deal with some of the cumbersome things in life, please don't be stingy, use money reasonably or ask your family and friends to help you deal with the trivial things you are not good at, and then you will free up more time to devote yourself to your creation.

What is the hardest challenge you have faced in your career, and how did you overcome it?

Living in a big city, we gradually consider the result of the creation and viewer's feelings, rather than enjoying the creative process as before. This is what I have been overcome with since I became a professional artist. Maybe I can't completely ignore the results and the viewer's feelings, so I like to start create at night, which will enable me to enjoy the creative process without being bothered, and reduce the concern for the results.

What are your professional goals for the next year?

To get more business cooperation opportunities and be able to start planning my own personal exhibitions.