Can you tell us more about you and what you do?

I'm Yee Von, the creative force behind Whimsy Whimsical. Since 2009, I've pursued a career as a freelance illustrator, specialising in greeting cards, children's books, and custom packaging projects. I have a penchant for drawing woodland creatures, and my work is influenced by life's simple pleasures—moments like enjoying a cup of tea, getting absorbed in a good book, or simply gazing at the sky. I believe that these experiences enrich our spirits and provide solace in our everyday lives.

Every artwork tells a story. What inspired your cover design, what narrative or message are you conveying through your cover design, and can you share the creative process that led to its final form?

I wanted to create a cover design that reminds people of life’s bounty, luck, and simple happiness. Inspired by the abundant berries and flowers of spring and summer, I decided to incorporate these elements along with whimsical animals.The story began with the idea of animals strolling through an enchanting raspberry field, filled with rich details of nature and various creatures living in harmony. Strong, bold colours of the berries, along with ladybirds and other little critters, create a scene where the animals share their mutual enjoyment, delighting in a bountiful raspberry harvest. This highlights the abundance of life and the joy of discovering nature's treasures.I hope to invite viewers to embrace this spirit of happiness and adventure through the cover’s vibrant colours and playful details.

How does creativity connect to self-expression for you?

Creativity lets me share my unique perspective on the world and express my thoughts and emotions. I love bringing my visualisations to life in tangible form. My intricate details and soft, vibrant colours reveal my love for simplicity and my appreciation for detailed compositions and soothing vibes. As a sensitive person, these elements help me find peace in this world.

In your perspective, what role does creativity play in empowering individuals and communities, and how have you witnessed this power in action?

I'm drawn to calm and simplicity, where life feels less complicated. Verbalising my emotions can be challenging, especially when others aren't receptive. Drawing helps me express these feelings through my characters. Without intending to, I started creating animals with closed eyes, immersed in simple joys like reading, sipping tea, or exploring nature. I'm thrilled when people find my drawings not only cute but also soothing.

In your perspective, what role does creativity play in empowering individuals and communities, and how have you witnessed this power in action?

From my own experience, one of the most profound strengths of creativity is its power to make us feel heard, regardless of what we're going through. As emotional beings, we all crave that recognition, and artists have a unique ability to capture and express these emotions through various forms—be it poetry, visual art, performance, or music. For those enduring pain or struggle, these creations say, "I see you, I feel you, I hear you," offering a deep sense of healing.I recall an artist once telling me about a grieving mother who found solace in his artwork after losing her stillborn infant. That story illustrates the immense power of art to touch and heal.

Have you faced any challenges in maintaining your individuality in your work, especially in the face of trends or external expectations? How did you overcome them?

Oh yes! I started drawing because I loved creating imaginative things. But I soon realised that to support myself, drawing purely for my own enjoyment wouldn’t take me very far. Back then, I used to create intricate artworks with hidden stories and emotions and sell them as art prints and postcards. However, to generate more sales, I began exploring alternative products like stationery (which I enjoy nonetheless). I shifted towards simpler, more commercial themes because that’s what people were looking for.While my style hasn’t changed much over the years (I don't really follow illustration trends), this approach went on for quite some time until I started feeling a bit lost because I wasn’t creating the work that truly sparked joy for me. In recent years, I’ve been revisiting what delights my heart – incorporating stories and emotions into my work and even developing a new line of characters for it.

What advice would you give to emerging artists who are trying to find and express their individuality through their work?

Being true to yourself and your artistic passions is crucial, especially when facing the challenges and expectations that come with being an artist. These include managing projects, finances, and meeting the expectations of those closest to you. While it's important to explore different styles and allow your individuality to evolve, always ensure that your work authentically represents who you are. Your passion will be your greatest asset in navigating these challenges.

What’s the one thing you want to accomplish this year?

I'm looking forward to finally design a series of poker cards that a friend asked for many years ago. I got caught up with illustration events earlier this year, but now I'm focused and eager to complete this project in the next few months :)

Where can we see more of your work?

If you're interested in getting to know more about my artwork and want to learn about my creative process, feel free to follow me on Instagram @whimsywhimsical for updates on my art and stories.