-An interview with the illustrator Belinda Chen-

It’s not just spam that we have in our inbox. Actually there are also some really interesting and talented people who contact us! For example the illustrator Belinda Chen. We then took a closer look at her work. In fact, it was so inspiring that we arranged a meeting just a little later – here it goes:

First, could you tell us a little bit about yourself and your background?

I’m a designer and illustrator from Melbourne, Australia.
My background is in Communication Design.
I like to draw, make things, read, see new places, meet people, go on adventures.

What’s the most characteristic feature about your work?

With my portraits, I like the characters to exude their own personality, have their own thoughts. It is up to the viewer to interpret what the illustration represents to them.
There is a playful aspect to most of my work and I like pieces that contain a story or meaning.
My work can be quite varied, ranging from fashion illustration to colorful collage.

Is there a basic idea you always like to emphasize in your work?

This often depends on the brief. If it is a personal piece, I usually have an initial idea then work on from there. Sometimes it works well and the piece flows from beginning to completion. Other times, it may take more trial and error to get it right.

Which projects are you currently working on?

I am currently working on freelance illustrations for der Freitag, So’Chic Magazine and my own artworks.

Since when do you live here and how (if at all) has living in Berlin changed the way you work and get inspired?

I moved to Berlin in October last year. Being here has definitely changed the way I work, from finding different opportunities and trying things I would never have thought to do back home.
The city is also full of creativity and interesting people who are constantly moving around and that’s refreshing.

…three favorite things of yours about Berlin?

People who are comfortable in their own skin, unconcerned about what others think.
So many cosy and cute cafes where you can take all the time you want.
I haven’t yet experienced summer in Berlin but have been told it’s wonderful, can’t wait!

Thank you so much for sharing these thoughts with us. All the best from us!

Interview by Eugen Braeunig | Graphics by Belinda Chen