Valextra Meets Shan Jiang
The Shanghai-native illustrator shares the inspiration behind our illustrated collaboration
Finding a synergy between our hometown inspirations and the juxtapositions that exist within each, our collaboration with London-based, Shanghai-native illustrator Shan Jiang was a meeting of minds in different mediums. Here, he explains the inspiration behind his work, his interpretation of 520 and Qixi for our campaign, and who his ultimate artistic hero is.
Valextra: What key elements of Valextra did you want to portray with your illustrations?
Shan Jiang: In my illustrations for Valextra, I focused on capturing the essence of love, particularly within couples. I aimed to visually articulate the abstract concept of love, emphasising the emotional connection and intimacy shared between individuals. Each artwork aimed to evoke a sense of warmth and tenderness, reflecting the timeless elegance associated with Valextra.
V: How did you translate the theme of 520 into the series of illustrations you have created for us?
SJ: Translating the theme of 520 into artwork presented a unique challenge. Unlike traditional festivals like Valentine’s Day, 520 derives its significance from the homophonic similarity to 'I Love You' in Chinese, gaining popularity among young couples in recent years. With limited historical context to draw from, I chose to focus on conveying the emotional journey of young love. Each illustration captures the nuances of this journey, moments of uncertainty mingled with excitement, the pursuit of perfection in an imperfect world, and the delicate balance between dreams and reality. By infusing these abstract feelings into the 520 typography, I aimed to create a visual narrative that resonates with the essence of modern romance.
V: And how did you translate the theme of Qixi into the series?
SJ: Unlike the theme of 520, Qixi carries deep historical roots dating back to the Han dynasty, making it a widely recognised and cherished tradition spanning nearly two millennia. Leveraging its iconic imagery of the Cowherd and Weaver Girl, symbolised by a bridge formed by magical magpies, provided a solid foundation for my illustrations. However, the challenge lay in revitalising this timeless narrative for a modern audience while retaining its cultural essence.
To achieve this, I maintained the core elements of Qixi while infusing a contemporary twist. The depiction of the couple, clad in modern attire with subtle nods to tradition walking across the celestial bridge against the backdrop of a bustling cityscape, served to bridge the gap between past and present. Moreover, I opted for a style that resonates with today's couples, steering clear of overly traditional aesthetics to ensure relevance and appeal. In essence, my approach aimed to honor the enduring legacy of Qixi while breathing new life into its narrative, offering viewers a fresh perspective on a beloved cultural celebration.
V: Was being an illustrator always your ambition?
SJ: Though I've been drawing since childhood, my journey into illustration evolved from a background in graphic design. In the dynamic landscape of the mid-Nineties, graphic design demanded versatility beyond traditional art forms. This multidisciplinary approach shaped my preference for illustration as it allowed me to blend artistic expression with design principles. I'm drawn to illustration for its capacity to convey narratives, style, and visual impact, seamlessly integrating with design elements to engage viewers on multiple levels.
V: What do you find inspiring about the medium?
SJ: What I find truly inspiring about the medium is its versatility. While I have a deep love for the precision and tactile nature of hand drawing, I also appreciate the freedom and flexibility that digital painting offers. By combining both traditional and digital techniques, I'm able to explore a wide range of artistic possibilities. This fusion allows me to express myself authentically while pushing the boundaries of creativity, ultimately resulting in unique and compelling artworks.
V: How would you describe your signature style?
SJ: My signature style is a fusion of diverse influences, drawing inspiration from the rich tapestry of my hometown, Shanghai. Infused with the juxtaposition of its towering skyscrapers and quaint bungalows, my artwork reflects the interplay between contemporary concepts and traditional superstitions. Rooted in a deep appreciation for art history, my style is a synthesis of various artistic movements and cultural references. Influences ranging from Chinese Meticulous Art to the elegance of Ukiyo-e, from the avant-garde principles of Bauhaus design to the intricate detail of Durer's work shape the visual language of my creations. Additionally, my passion for manga and anime infuses a dynamic energy and storytelling aspect into my art.
V: Like you, we are strongly influenced by our hometown. What specific elements of Shanghai influence you and your work?
SJ: My artistic inspiration is deeply rooted in the vibrancy of Shanghai. Growing up amidst its unique streets, buildings, and diverse cultures has profoundly shaped my creative vision. The city's dynamic evolution from the early 80s to the present day serves as a rich source of inspiration, reflecting in my artwork.
Specifically, I'm captivated by the architectural marvels that dot the Shanghai skyline, the bustling streets teeming with life, and the nostalgic presence of bicycles, once ubiquitous in the city's transport landscape during my formative years. Moreover, the rich tapestry of dialects and the eclectic mix of people that call Shanghai home further enrich my artistic perspective.
V: What draws you to juxtapositions and opposites within your work?
SJ: Quietness and busyness; Zen, loneliness and bustling with noise.
V: What materials do you use and why?
SJ: My primary tools include pencil and pen, rooted in years of training and a deep love for traditional sketching. These mediums allow me to capture the raw essence of my ideas with precision and nuance. However, I also embrace digital techniques as they offer unparalleled flexibility and adaptability. Working digitally enables me to easily make revisions, collaborate with animators, and seamlessly adapt my artwork for various platforms. By combining traditional and digital mediums, I can explore the full spectrum of creative possibilities while maintaining efficiency and versatility in my artistic process.
V: Who are your professional heroes?
SJ: Vincent van Gogh is my ultimate hero in the world of art. When it comes to illustration, there are countless masters who have greatly influenced my work, and the list of heroes continues to expand every day.