Rickie Wu is a illustrator and art director living in Taichung, Taiwan

Rickie Wu is a self-taught illustrator and art director living in Taichung, Taiwan. He started his artistic journey studying the works of well-known artists, which helped him develop his skills and creativity. His first professional project was illustrating a teen novel about Taiwan's local mysteries. Since then, he's worked on various projects, including children's illustrations, magazine editorials, and commercial work.

He has collaborated with educational publishers like KNSH, Nani, and Future Parenting. He has also been honoured with several awards, including the IlloBoom Top 50. He finds inspiration in everyday life, which helps him stay creative and continue improving his art.

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


I illustrated a picture book called *Ah Ma's Seven-Syllable Song*, my first project of its kind. The story centres around traditional Taiwanese opera, a subject that was completely new to me. I put in a lot of research before starting my drafts, and the final result turned out great. My client was very happy with the outcome.

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


I found my inspiration in paying attention to the details of everyday life.

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


I believe I would be a strong advocate for the importance of creative expression and learning art on your own. Since I’ve developed my skills through self-teaching, I know both the difficulties and the rewards of this path.

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


I find inspiration in everyday life, which helps me create art that's relatable and full of personality. I fully immerse myself in my creative process, often using music or specific moods to bring more emotion into my work.

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)? 


I would say it’s my efficiency and flexibility in working with others.

How would you describe your style? 


My style is colourful and warm, reflecting real life with a hint of something fresh and playful when you take a closer look.

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. 


Music and books.

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


I recently finished a daily challenge of drawing one reader a day. The theme focused on different types of readers and the various reading postures they enjoy. It was an exercise to keep me motivated and to keep my Instagram and Threads updated.

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


Paudull, also known as Chen Jiannian, is a Taiwanese indigenous musician. What makes him special is not just that he won the Golden Melody Award with his debut album, *The Ocean*, but also that he is a policeman stationed on Orchid Island. His music brings me a sense of comfort and home, so whenever I'm feeling down, I turn to Paudull's music to lift my spirits. Listen to it here

If you’d like more info, please contact: [email protected]

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