Hi, I’m Haijingchao Su, but you can just call me Su. I’m originally from China. After finishing my BFA in Graphic Design in 2017, I came to Syracuse University, where I completed my MFA in Illustration in 2020. I’m now based in California.
I’m interested in commercial projects, gallery exhibitions, and other creative practices. Most of my work is created digitally, but I also love collage and acrylic painting. Conceptual and narrative illustration is my strength, and I’m especially fascinated by people’s psychological activities. Current events often inspire me too, as I enjoy thinking deeply about the world around us.
I received a long period of academic fine art training starting from the age of four—both in Chinese calligraphy and painting, as well as Western traditions. But in the end, I was influenced by Cézanne, Picasso, and David Hockney, as well as Matisse, Dufy, and Rousseau. I like to bring the perspective of Chinese painting into my creative process—going beyond a single fixed moment, and instead trying to capture richer layers of time and space.
My professional experience includes illustrating for children’s and youth magazines, publishing a picture book, and designing posters for films and TV dramas. I’ve also done many smaller-scale commercial works such as product packaging, store posters, and private commissions.
I’m very self-motivated, quick at problem-solving, and genuinely enjoy working. Outside of art, I play the violin, and I’m passionate about opera, classical music, serious literature. Swimming and hiking—moving between water and forest—are my favorite ways of self-healing. I’m also deeply interested in philosophy. At home, I share my life with two adopted cats and a collection of plants.
Awards:
American illustration 44, Selected winner
2024 Horizon Japan Kyoto International art exhibition
Communication Arts 2020, Shortlist
Ijungle Awards 2019, Merit Award/ New Talent
Society of Illustrator West 58, Merit Award
Ijungle Awards 2018, Merit Award/ New Talent
Communication Arts 2018, Shortlist
2016 John Moores Painting Prize (China), Shortlist
E-mail: haijingchaosu@gmail.com
Text: 443-603-4608