Shin Morae

The way Shin Morae, Illustrator, uses colour to capture a mood grabbed our attention and the trade mark "( )" for eyes kept us coming back for more. Shae shares with us the start of her journey developing her style and why she does it!

What are some of your earliest creative memories and what lead you into design?

When I was a middle school student I participated in a reading circle. My teacher who supervised our circle said to me “I heard you are good at drawing and design so could you make the poster for newbies?” I answered “yes!” and since that time I started kind of a “drawing job” in school. (not even paid..!) I really enjoyed the work design things because I can make what I want even if it doesn’t exist in the world.

What do you look for in a great client?

Understanding my work is really important. If a client hasn’t got any sense of my work it going to be very hard for each other. I’d talk a lot about what we make together and what for. It’s not always easy to communicate but good communication is always a great pleasure.

Design work by Shin Morae The Design Kids interviews Shin Morae work-2

How did you develop your style as an illustrator and what tips would you have for others?

I don’t like intuitive things. So I use the “( )” mark instead of eye shape. Some people think the characters who are in my drawings don’t have eyes. That’s the funny point I think. and pink is not my favorite color but I thought it’s very interesting ingredient. My sketch is too blue so I mixed pink to neutralize the gloomy mood.

Are you involved in any teaching and if so how it shapes your practice?

For about 3 years I've been teaching and held a workshop every year. I've also lectured for people who want to be illustrators. My workshop is not for skill but to thinks about myself. What do I like, what do I hate, what i’m good at.

Design work by Shin Morae The Design Kids interviews Shin Morae work-4
Design work by Shin Morae The Design Kids interviews Shin Morae work-4

It’s okay to be slow because you have your own rhythm.

What is the design landscape like on your city and where do you fit in?

I was born in Incheon which is an airport city, I like this city, because Seoul is too noisy and busy. Incheon is also a big city but my town is very quite and near by the sea. A lonely atmosphere.

What advice would you give students starting out?

Do as much as you want and keep thinking about what is most important in your life. It might be the cats or food or cozy bed. It’s okay to be slow because you have your own rhythm.

Design work by Shin Morae The Design Kids interviews Shin Morae work-6
Design work by Shin Morae The Design Kids interviews Shin Morae work-6

Where to find Shin Morae online.

Website: shinmorae.com

Instagram: @shinmorae_

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