High Artist Spotlight: Runrun Chen

Runrun Chen is an illustrator based in New York City. She is currently a senior in college, majoring in the BFA Illustration program at the Fashion Institute of Technology. She often creates fantasy, and conceptual art and enjoys creating her own original characters. One of her greatest strengths as an illustrator is her ability to use her imagination with soft and flowing lines and vivid color palettes to express her concepts. She has passion and appreciation for the beauty of nature and the rococo style of paintings.
We recently caught up with Runrun after High Art 2023 to learn more about her most recent inspirations:

Where do you find your creative inspiration?

Anything can be an inspiration. I find my creative inspirations from my life, my dreams, nature, movies, games, and other artists' works.

Why do you do what you do?

I love and take pride in the art I create, just like how a chef takes pride in the food he makes.

What art/artist do you most identify with?

Fantasy, surreal art style, and concept art.

What themes do you pursue the most?

Stylized female portraiture, nature, game art, character design, and more.

What role does an artist have in society?

Spreading messages through art, inspiring others, and enriching lives.

What is your artistic outlook on life?

Art has a unique power, and its presence enriches our lives and the world.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Be confident in yourself, experiment with different styles, and never stop learning.

Do you listen to music while you are creating? If yes, share the song and artist that you listen to while creating art.

I often listen to classical and piano music, such as Chopin, Debussy, and Yiruma.

What's the best thing about being an artist?

Expressing my thoughts through art that also resonates with others, and seeing people enjoy my work.

What is your dream project?

Freelance, produce key art for game companies, and create art for my favorite brands.

Support Runrun by shopping her collection here.