vy tran, spreading love, kindness, and surprising little details

Introducing Vy Tran, an illustrator based in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Inspired from a young age by Japanese manga, Vy filled her home with paintings and comic sketches. As Vy pursued her dream of becoming a professional illustrator, she found a true passion for children’s picture books. She loves drawing expressive children, natural scenes full of flowers and trees, and cozy homes filled with tiny details, like a hidden cat or a bee landing on on a flower. Vy mainly works digitally, sometimes using watercolor.

We asked By to answer our Q&A and were touched by her kind words... 

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

I believe The Kindest Fairy Tales is one of my best successes. It features more than 50 pages of full-spread illustrations, and I dedicated a great deal of focus and effort throughout the entire process. The book retells classic fairy tales with gentler, more humane endings, aiming to inspire children with kindness and positive values. It was released during the Christmas season and given to children as gifts, which made me feel like I had created something truly meaningful—a heartfelt Christmas present full of warmth and care.

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

I like taking a quiet walk in the nearby park whenever I feel creatively stuck or need to unwind after a long day. I feel lucky to have a park nearby, even though I live in a busy city. Even just stepping into my little garden can help clear my mind. Spending time with my kids at the end of the day also sparks fresh ideas. Their thoughts and actions are often so imaginative (and sometimes hilariously quirky).

Is there anything you'd be a good advocate for? 

I’m a good listener and quite sensitive to other people’s emotions. I tend to think carefully before I speak or act because I never want to hurt anyone. I always try to stay positive. Sometimes, I do feel stressed or get caught up in overthinking because I care too much, but overall, I see it as a good trait. It’s allowed me to connect with many wonderful people and hear so many interesting stories.

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

I love illustrations filled with tiny, interesting details—a little bird singing on a tree branch, a black cat hiding behind the curtain, or toys tucked under the sofa. Adding these small elements to a picture brings the story to life and makes the process so joyful for me. I think that’s what makes my illustrations special: the longer you look, the more little surprises you’ll find.

What is something that clients come back to you for?

I usually sketch a lot before deciding on a final version. I often create at least three options so the client has choices, and I’m always open to making more if they want to explore other directions. I think that’s one of the reasons clients keep coming back—because of my dedication and willingness to take on any challenge.

How would you describe your style?

My style is colorful and playful. I love using bright colors, drawing characters with cute expressions, and creating fun layouts that make each page feel full of life.

Please give a scenario of a dream project that would mean the world to you — something personally meaningful.

I believe every book carries its own meaningful message, but if I could choose, I’d love to be part of a project that inspires love for nature and animals, and nurtures kindness and compassion in children. I had a wonderful childhood filled with simple, magical moments—like playing in grassy fields or rescuing little caterpillars from a line of ant—and I hope to share that same sense of wonder and care with children through the pages I illustrate.

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

Yes, I have two children’s book ideas that revolve around nature and friendship. Right now, they’re still in the early stages. I’ve only developed some character sketches so far. My goal is to complete both projects and submit them by the end of 2026.

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

I’d love to create a children’s book about the late actress Audrey Hepburn. Her dedication, talent, simplicity, and deep love for people, along with her timeless wisdom, are truly inspiring. I think it would be so meaningful (and fun) to express those beautiful qualities through illustrations in a gentle, accessible way for children.

If you’d like more info, 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.