Meet illustrator from South Korea, Sehee Chae.

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

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

I live in Ansan, which is very close to the West Sea. Sometimes I go for a walk, play with my friends, watch movies, play games, listen to music, and I usually do my work.

The bad thing is that there are many areas that are less developed, so it’s not safe. (bad security)

I live in Ansan, which is very close to the West Sea. Sometimes I go for a walk, play with my friends, watch movies, play games, listen to music, and I usually do my work.

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

The good thing is that this place is a little quiet because there aren’t many people. There are mountains and fields around here. The air seems to be pretty good compared to other cities.

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

peaceful, natural, relaxed

How did you start your career in art?

I loved painting since I was young and I have been drawing steadily at that time. My dream was to do painting as a profession, but it is so amazing that I became an illustrator.  A close friend of mine advised me to become an illustrator and I was able to draw many good pictures with my friend’s help.

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

There are many things I haven’t done yet. Especially, large works such as package design, outdoor advertisements, wall paintings, etc. I haven’t tried it yet. The goal is to do more work.

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

A Chinese illustrator named Jenny Lev, her style is unique and bold. Currently, Instagram is following each other, and I want to work with her.

How would you describe the women around you?

I think I project myself a lot in my paintings. I describe women as intelligent women who enjoy daydreaming and thinking. Also, I draw a lot of young girls because they have good fresh emotions. That’s why I think there are quite a few girl fans.

I think I project myself a lot in my paintings. I describe women as intelligent women who enjoy daydreaming and thinking. 

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

I respect a Korean artist named Noh Suk Mi. Her relaxed looking style of painting feels great.

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

Nothing too difficult about this industry because it is relatively female rather than other industries. But for some young women, there are some people who think they can ignore it or treat it recklessly.

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

Work with confidence. It may be a lonely fight, but you should not lose your self-esteem. 

(It would be better if you had a family or friend who could support you too)

Photos courtesy of Sehee Chae.