Jing Li recently held her solo show in Shanghai, collaborating with IM Motor, an automotive brand known for its fresh perspective. The exhibition showcased her ability to merge storytelling and branding within a unique artistic framework.
This partnership allowed her to explore the intersection of art and automotive design, creating illustrations that reflected the brand’s identity while maintaining her distinct artistic style. Her work featured a blend of hand-drawn textures and digital techniques, presenting a visual narrative that connected with audiences in a fresh way. “This collaboration was an opportunity to think about how illustration can move beyond traditional spaces like publishing or advertising,” Jing Li, illustrator, said. “It was important for me to create something that felt authentic to my style but also aligned with IM Motor’s vision.”
The Shanghai show attracted attention from professionals in both the art and automotive industries. It demonstrated how illustration can be used as a tool for branding and storytelling in industries not typically associated with visual art.
Exploring Texture and Technique
Jing Li’s approach to illustration focuses on texture and composition, combining traditional pencil linework with airbrush effects and digital textures. Her solo show provided a platform to showcase these techniques, which have become central to her artistic identity.
Her emphasis on texture stems from her interest in how different mediums evoke emotion and depth. Her illustrations often feature bold compositions that challenge conventional norms, making her work stand out in competitive spaces like editorial design and children’s books. “Texture is one of the most important elements of my work,” she explained. “It allows me to experiment with how illustrations can convey feeling and connect with people on a more personal level.”
Her ability to balance handmade textures with digital tools has earned her recognition in exhibitions such as the Society of Illustrators and Shanghai JingAn International Design Festival. These showcases reflect her growing influence within the art and design community, where her work is appreciated for its technical skill and creative vision.
Versatility Across Industries
Jing Li’s career spans multiple industries, including publishing, advertising, packaging design, and editorial illustration. Her versatility allows her to take on projects ranging from children’s books like Lunch from Home to packaging designs for brands such as CEMOY Australia. Each project reflects her ability to adapt her style while maintaining a consistent narrative voice.
Her editorial illustrations for publications like The Washington Post and The Los Angeles Times tackle complex themes with sensitivity and creativity. Meanwhile, her work in packaging design demonstrates how illustration elevates everyday products into visually engaging pieces.
Li also emphasizes inclusivity in her work, focusing on diverse characters and stories that resonate with broader audiences. This focus aligns with industry trends toward representation and accessibility in visual storytelling. “For me, every project is about finding ways to connect with people through art,” she said. “Whether it’s a book or a magazine cover, I want my illustrations to feel meaningful.”
Expanding Artistic Horizons
Jing Li continues to explore new opportunities within the art and design industry while staying true to her storytelling roots. Her recent appointment as a judge for the 2024 Global Recognition Awards reflects her growing role within the professional community.
Upcoming projects include a second pop-up book focused on dinosaurs, following the success of The Amazing Ocean. These ventures highlight her interest in creating interactive experiences that engage readers of all ages while showcasing her technical skills as an illustrator.
Her solo show in Shanghai demonstrates how illustration intersects with industries like automotive design, expanding its potential applications beyond traditional mediums. Jing Li continues refining her craft while exploring new ways of using art to communicate across diverse contexts.
