Meet New York-based illustrator and designer, Linda Liu.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I grew up in a Socal suburb where school was once almost cancelled for a day because too many students/faculty were at Coachella. Moved across the country after that, got a BFA at RISD, and now work in New York as an illustrator/designer. I like window-shopping, music video analyzing, and recreational eating.

Describe the city you’re living in and what it’s like to live there.

I commute to work from Jersey City. Jersey City gets a lot of flack but stereotypes aside, it’s got convenient transit, colorful car language, and the best mediocre diners.

I commute to work from Jersey City. Jersey City gets a lot of flack but stereotypes aside, it’s got convenient transit, colorful car language, and the best mediocre diners.

What is the best and worst thing about living in your city?

The best thing is that it’s not in New York, so the cost of living is a little lighter. The worst thing is that it’s in New Jersey so no one ever wants to come hang out…

Give us 3 words that describe what it’s like to be a creative in your city.

At What Cost

How did you start your career in art?

With a PowerPoint I made in 7th grade about why I should pursue a career in the arts that I presented to my parents.

With a PowerPoint I made in 7th grade about why I should pursue a career in the arts that I presented to my parents.

Were the people around you supportive of your decision on working as a creative?

Pretty much! I was always That Art Kid so it seemed a given. And then I actually did it, like a madman.

What are some goals and ambitions you have for your future work?

I have lots of things I want to make! Calendars, clothes, textiles, books…. When I become very strong I want to create the visual identity for a big brand or a large-scale event.

I have lots of things I want to make! Calendars, clothes, textiles, books…. When I become very strong I want to create the visual identity for a big brand or a large-scale event.

If you could collaborate with any person in the world who would it be?

SHINee! My dream gig is to create visual assets for promotional materials such as concert, album, or photobook goods.

How would you describe the women around you?

Multifarious

Were there any local female creatives that you looked up to when you were growing up?

If we’re talking local as in hometown, most of the female creatives who inspired me were my friends! I think it’s really important to recognize and appreciate not only industry seniors who have already made it, but also peers who share the ideas, resources, and experiences that will form the zeitgeist of the next generation.

I think it’s really important to recognize and appreciate not only industry seniors who have already made it, but also peers who share the ideas, resources, and experiences that will form the zeitgeist of the next generation.

Are there any challenging aspects of being a female in your industry?

Maybe that there’s so many amazing fellow female creatives? The level of talent is really high, so I always feel inspired and challenged by the work I see women making in the editorial illustration industry!

Don’t be shy! This is an industry where you have to speak louder than your work to be noticed.

Do you have any advice to young women who are aspiring to work in your field?

Don’t be shy! This is an industry where you have to speak louder than your work to be noticed. No one’s going out of their way to notice you, so don’t wait to be seen. Attend events, send emails, and make opportunities. But stay professional, and stay you!

Photos courtesy of Linda Liu.