Qian is an animation director and illustrator based in Stoke-on-Trent, UK. Her work is inspired by nature, dreams and the surreal moments of daily life, resulting in whimsical visual narratives. Qian has collaborated with many global clients, such as the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, Coldplay, Bloomberg Businessweek, Penguin Random House, Faber Children and Hyundai, among others.
WHERE DO YOUR BEST IDEAS COME FROM? (DREAMS, SHOWER, MUSEUM, TRAIN?)
I love collecting inspiration from my everyday surroundings — sometimes it’s while I’m in the garden, watching how the flowers glow, or even in the shower, when my mind is most relaxed and able to think widely. These little moments often spark unexpected ideas. I keep a notebook where I write things down or draw quick sketches. Later on, when I need some fresh ideas, I flip back through those pages, and it’s like rediscovering small treasures I left for myself.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE THING TO DRAW AS A CHILD? WHY DID THAT LODGE IN YOUR HEAD?
As a child, I loved drawing all kinds of living things — dogs, tigers, earthlings. But what attracted me the most were wild horses. They always felt so alive, and to me they represented freedom, which was something I longed for as a child. Drawing them wasn’t just about their beauty — it was about capturing that spirit of freedom, and that feeling still inspires the way I approach my work today.
WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU NEED A BREAK?
Sometimes I’ll go for a run or just play with my cat. Both give me space to breathe, reset and return to my projects with new energy and perspective. Running especially helps clear my head, gets me moving and often helps me come back to my work with fresh ideas.
MORNING BIRD OR NIGHT OWL?
I used to be a night owl when I just graduated. But over time I realized that working in the morning feels more efficient and much healthier. Now, I really enjoy starting my day with a cup of coffee and a nice breakfast. Mornings give me a sense of clarity and momentum, like the whole day is open with possibilities.
HOW DOES CREATIVITY RUN IN YOUR FAMILY, EVEN IF IT’S NOT DESIGN-RELATED?
Both of my parents love drawing. My mum enjoyed sketching classical female figures, while my dad focused on studying ancient Chinese architecture and painting it with watercolors. He also loved drawing images of the Buddha. I grow up in rural China, and when my sister and I were really young, my dad often took us out into nature to do life drawing. Sometimes he would show us how to draw willow trees, water buffalo and pagoda, but most of the time we’d draw whatever we wanted.
