Loulou Luyao Yan is a motion designer, illustrator, and designer based in NYC

Loulou Luyao Yan is a motion designer, illustrator, and designer based in NYC. She graduated from the School of Visual Arts, NY, where she majored in Illustration and Motion. As an illustrator and motion designer, she has worked for notable companies like Facebook, The Washington Post, Scientific American, and Nasdaq.   Loulou's illustration and animation work is currently primarily in 2D digital, but she would love to explore 3D presentations. 

We asked Loulou a few questions about her art, so read on to learn more…

What would you say is your best piece of work / collaboration to date, and why? 

My best work is the next one. I’m constantly learning and growing with each project, pushing myself to try new techniques and explore different styles. I believe that my future work will always be my best because I’m continuously striving to improve and create something even more impactful. 

That mindset keeps me excited and motivated about every new opportunity that comes my way.

Where do you like to go to be inspired, or how do you find your inspiration?

I find inspiration in many places, depending on what I need at the moment. Sometimes, I like to visit art galleries or museums, where I can immerse myself in the work of other artists and explore different styles and techniques. Nature is also a big source of inspiration for me—I often go for walks and ride, observing people, colors, textures, and patterns that can translate into my work. When I can't step outside, I turn to books, music, and films to spark my creativity. I also find that conversations with other creatives or even just daydreaming with a sketchbook in hand can lead to unexpected ideas. Inspiration can come from anywhere—it’s about staying curious and open to new experiences.

Is there anything you'd say you would be a good advocate for? Please elaborate if so.

I’d say I would be a strong advocate for creative expression and the importance of art in everyday life. I believe that art has the power to connect people, evoke emotions, and spark change. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s a way to tell stories, communicate ideas, and challenge perceptions. Additionally, as someone who thrives on collaboration, I’d advocate for fostering supportive creative communities that value empathy, diversity, and innovation. I believe we can all benefit from sharing our skills and learning from one another.

What would you say sets you apart from other illustrators? Something you feel is unique to you.

My background in animation and direction adds a unique dimension to my illustrations. I think in terms of movement, storytelling, and character development, which brings a dynamic quality to my work. I often envision my illustrations as frames in an animated sequence, considering how they might move, interact, or unfold over time. This approach adds depth and energy, making my visuals feel alive and engaging.

I'm deeply inspired by various periods of Eastern and Western art, as well as nature, and I love incorporating these influences in unexpected ways. I enjoy experimenting with colors, textures, and patterns to create rich, layered pieces that invite viewers to explore and discover hidden details.

Above all, I strive to convey a wide range of emotions through my work, believing these feelings can deeply resonate with the audience. This focus on both emotional and thought expression is unique to me—it's my way of channeling my inner world and connecting with others. It’s what drives my passion for illustration, and I’m truly grateful for this gift.

If you have done paid commissions prior to joining the agency, what would you say is something that clients repeatedly come to you for (up to now)?

In my previous paid commissions, clients frequently seek out my work for several key reasons:

Unique and Varied Visual Style: They often approach me for projects needing a distinctive and memorable visual identity. My style can adapt to various project needs, and I’m excited to explore new styles tailored to each project's requirements. 

Storytelling: Clients value my ability to create illustrations that not only capture the essence of their concepts but also tell a compelling and intelligent story.

Creativity and Functionality: I excel at translating complex concepts into clear, engaging designs and storytelling. My clients appreciate my creativity in crafting designs that are both visually striking and highly functional. 

How would you describe your style?

My style is dynamic and versatile, allowing me to adapt to various artistic needs and project requirements. I enjoy exploring different visual approaches and am confident in my ability to create designs that are both visually engaging and functionally effective. Whether it's bringing unique visual identities to life or translating complex concepts into clear and compelling illustrations, my work is characterized by creativity, adaptability, and a strong emphasis on storytelling and detail.

Please give a scenario of a project that would mean the world to you, if you were offered it - something that connects to something meaningful to you.

A project that would be meaningful to me would be creating visual work for nonprofit organizations, social causes, or advocacy campaigns supporting marginalized or vulnerable communities. Designing impactful posters or promotional materials for such initiatives would be incredibly fulfilling. I believe visual design is a powerful language, and using it to amplify the voices of underrepresented groups and contribute to meaningful social change would be deeply rewarding.

Are you working on any personal projects you can share with us?

Recently, I've been exploring some new and exciting techniques in motion design while also working on some doodles.

Finally, if you were to illustrate a book related to a real life person, who would that be?

If I were to illustrate a book about a real-life person, I would choose someone from our everyday lives—the ordinary people who keep our daily routines running smoothly. Many books celebrate great leaders or celebrities, but there is a lack of focus on the unsung heroes who make a significant impact through their everyday work. Their stories are equally important, and illustrating their experiences would be both meaningful and rewarding.

If you’d like more information about Loulou, please contact: [email protected]

At illo agency, we pride ourselves in representing a collation of global illustrators, distinctly diverse in creativity and uniquely celebrated by like-minded clients across a range of commercial markets.