Having drawn as a child as an escape and to lift her spirits, Taiwanese artist Lulu Lin went on to gain her Batchelor’s degree in industrial design at Shih Chien University, Taiwan before doing her Master’s in communication design at Designskolen Kolding, Denmark. During this time Lulu Lin officially launched her illustration career.
“During my one-year exchange at Köln International School of Design in Germany, I had the free time to fully embrace drawing as a hobby, which led me to share my work online. However, it took another 3-4 years before I began taking on commissioned illustrations.”
Here at So Young, we’ve been following Lulu’s work for a while. Scottish band Walt Disco have effectively used her pieces across singles and album art. Most recently Fontaines D.C. have licensed a series of Lulu’s work for use across their new ‘Romance’ album campaign. Producing visuals which are set to become just as iconic as the album itself.
Having just released a collaborative t-shirt with Lulu we thought there was no better time to dig a little deeper and find out about influences and the process involved in her amazing work.
How do you go about starting a piece of work? Does it start as a pencil drawing? What is your process?
I draw when I feel confused about what I’m feeling or when I’m eager to vent out my emotions.
I usually work on my iPad, beginning with a simple, crisp outline (the foundation of my vision). From there, shades and colours flow naturally, arriving as they wish, adding depth and intensity to the initial sketch. Each layer becomes a spontaneous expression, allowing the artwork to evolve organically.
The creative process serves as a therapeutic outlet for me, allowing a dialogue with my inner self. I view my illustrations as a way to communicate with myself. Through my art, I aim to capture the elusive and often unclear emotions that exist in reality. I also seek to connect and communicate with others through various design and creative forms, striving to bridge our experiences in a meaningful way.
What are you currently working on?
A collaboration project with a local shoe design studio(chenjingkaioffice), in which I translate my illustrations into 3D models, and later turn them into shoe soles and metal accessories for shoes, some ceramics for my solo show in Tokyo in September, a book, Tokyo Art Market in October, and some commissioned illustration projects.
I’ve recently seen you recreating some of your pieces in physical form, how has that worked?
I draw on the knowledge I gained from my industrial design studies and the support of my friends to create. Two years ago, a friend taught me how to work with clay, and since then, I’ve enjoyed experimenting with it once a year.
Tell us about a typical working day
A typical working day for me begins with making a fresh cup of coffee to energise myself for the day ahead. Afterward, I take some time to clean the house, ensuring my space is tidy and inviting. Next, I take care of my plants. I then fit in a workout or some form of exercise to keep my body active and healthy. Following my workout, I dive into my work, focusing on my tasks and projects. As the day progresses, I take a break to cook, allowing me to refuel and recharge. After finishing my meal, I continue with my work until the day winds down.
You’ve previously worked with bands like Walt Disco and more recently Fontaines D.C. What has the process been like with the new Fontaines D.C. singles and album artwork?
The illustrations for Fontaines D.C. are actually pieces I had created previously. They selected a series of my existing work and purchased the licensing rights for those pieces.
Who’s work do you admire and why?
I admire a variety of creators, particularly in comics, such as “Watchmen” and the work of Tatsuki Fujimoto. I’m also a fan of anime, particularly the works of Satoshi Kon and Masaaki Yuasa. Additionally, I enjoy cartoons like “Anpanman” and “Doraemon,” as well as TV shows like “Hacks” and “Bojack Horseman.” Each of these artists brings a unique perspective and creativity that I truly appreciate.
Does music influence your work at all?
There is no direct influence, but I do listen to music while I work. Some of my favourite playlists for working include heavy, fast classical music and funk from the 70s and 80s.
Finally, what can we expect to see from you in the near future?
I’m not entirely sure, but I definitely hope that whatever comes next will be something that resonates with people or that they will enjoy.
Oue new collaboration t-shirt with Lulu Lin is out now! Shop
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