Note: this interview was originally published in 2020. It has been updated and republished to fix broken images and hyperlinks.
Zeen Chin is a very talented artist who is a master of digital art in both 2D and 3D. We interviewed him to get a sense of his process, inspirations, and how his creative mind works. The interview below has been lightly edited for length and clarity.
How did you pursue art as a career? Did you go to art school?
I’m a self-taught artist, and started my career as a 2D animator for five years. I always wanted to be an illustrator and concept artist, so whenever I had time I would keep practicing to improve myself. After all the practicing and preparation, I got my first job as illustrator and concept artist. This is how I get into this industry.
You seem to be pretty skillful in several art styles. How do you manage different styles and brushes?
I don’t think I can manage different types of style, but I will differentiate between my personal projects and my job. For personal, I will draw whatever I want based on my own preferences. As for job, I will try to follow the art direction based on the project. Usually I use one brush most of the time, actually!
Do you have a favorite piece that you've created, and why?
It is hard for me to choose, I love all of them as I put lots of effort in every piece of my artwork!
What inspires you?
I've loved to draw since I was a kid. When I came across digital painting, someone showed me a Master Katsuya Terada art book, and it introduced me to a whole new world for a kid who only drew Dragon Ball before. This is how I was inspired and motivated – to try and be like him one day.
Can you recommend any tips to upcoming artists looking up to your art?
Practice makes perfect! Also you have to be passionate – there are no other ways. And: Focus, focus, focus!
Tell us about your favorite music. What do you listen to when drawing?
- Omnipotent Youth Society
- Sigur Ros
- Ghibli Studio Soundtrack
- Deca Joins
- Summer Salt
How do you manage your creative process? Do you have any advice or suggestions for artists experiencing creative blocks?
I suggest that people read and see more, it can be from comics, or even words from a book, or walking out from their house – anything that they experience can become a material for their creativity!
Any last comments for our readers, Zeen?
Enjoy your life! Peace!
About the artist
Zeen Chin is a freelance illustrator and concept artist for games and animated films, including League of Legends, Kingdom Death, Chronos Gate, Legend of the Cryptids, and Galaxy Saga.
Follow his work on ArtStation, Instagram, or YouTube.
