These are the questions I'm asked most often. If you have a question that's not answered here, please let me know!

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'd like to hire you for a project. Can you tell me about your availability, turnaround and pricing?
It depends on the project. Small projects like a simple illustration could take a few days to weeks, and bigger projects like a detailed series could be weeks or over a month. Rush projects may be subject to a higher fee. For on-site event sketching, it depends on the duration, location, type of event and traffic. A small set-up will also be needed.

I do my best to be available for new projects. Please email or call me for more info.

Why did you choose illustration as a career?
Illustrating is something I've loved since I was little. It's been the one constant passion in my life and the best way I can contribute myself to the world.

What's your work process?
Usually, an image or idea has been floating in my head for sometime. Then I try to visualize and bring it to paper in rough sketches with a pen or pencil. Next, I refine the sketches, peruse the net / magazines / books for reference images and inspiration, and the final is usually created in Adobe Illustrator and / or Photoshop.

Where did you go to school? What did you study?
I graduated from Sheridan Institute's 2008 BAA Illustration program.

Where are you from?
I was born in China in 1984 and moved to the UK when I was almost nine. I lived there for a year and four months before coming to Toronto, Canada. It's been my home since 1995.

What's your work set-up?
I've been working off my MacBook Pro for the last few years (I'm due for an upgrade!) and I like working with a tablet.

Are you looking to take on interns?
Not at the moment.

When and where is your next show?
Please check my events page. As of now I have three main categories: sketching at special events, art shows and guest speaking.

What's your favourite colour?
I tend to go through phases. Right now I'm in love with lavender, orange and mustard. Mint ice cream green and every shade of pink are all-time favourites.

What inspires you?
A sense of humour, confidence, open-mindedness, the desire to learn and evolve, and nature.

Where in the world do you most want to visit that you haven't yet been to?
Paris, France!

What else would you like to do for a living if you weren't an illustrator?
I'd love to be a fashion stylist or food critic. I've also toyed with the idea of acting and dancing (I love to dance!)

Advice for aspiring illustrators / creative types?
Align your career with your passion. Focus on your strengths. Work hard and be nice. Have a professional and well-edited website with your best work and contact info. It's not about you; rather how you can help the client / project. Take the initiative to reach out to art directors and clients but don't be overly pushy. Don’t be afraid of rejection. Keep a balanced lifestyle. Try to see the silver lining in everything; that way life will always be beautiful.