IllustrationX - Xinyan Wang portfolio

Fantasy scenes of dreamlike surrealism – with bright colours, delicate line work and a feminine sensibility – are hallmarks of artwork by Chinese illustrator Xinyan Wang. Steeped in the folklore and mythology of her homeland, combined with cues from Western fantasies like Alice in Wonderland, the London-based artist is bringing her rich, immersive visual narratives to audiences around the world.

Clients appreciate the way Xinyan quickly responds to their briefs and her highly professional approach. It’s all part of how she works – every line is carefully considered, hand drawn to flow from one form to the next imbuing the final image with fluidity and dynamism. Plants, animals, water – elements from nature play key roles in Xinyan’s art, interacting with the characters and often instilling a calm and tranquil atmosphere. With a background in the artistic traditions of her native culture, Xinyan has a BFA in Illustration from the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design and at the time of writing is completing an MA in Painting at the Royal College of Art in London.

Approach

Each image begins life in Xinyan’s sketchbook, painstakingly developed and refined until the composition is resolved. At this point the work is transferred to Procreate where she continues to hone the line work while adding colour, usually preferring a bright palette.

Key software

Procreate

Style

Dynamic and deliberately quirky, Xinyan’s refined line work is the lifeblood of her imagery, but watch also for the nuances of life she captures in character expressions, unusual poses and patterned surfaces.