Hello, I'm YIYANG .

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I am an illustrator and picture book author.

I was born and raised in a seaside town in southern China — a place not only with the ocean, but also one where countless migratory birds come to spend the winter each year. My childhood memories are always tied to birds, and it was this sense of purity and kindness toward animals that guided me into the world of art. I always value staying true to the world I depict and conveying kindness and the importance of cherishing animals to people, readers, and the world through my work.

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I love finding inspiration in everyday life and enjoy giving objects personality and stories. Because of this, I often use personification in my illustrations to create empathy. If I were to describe my style in a few words, I would say it is vibrant, retro, and rich with hints and metaphors.

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In addition to working on paper, I also design art goods. Through experiencing Japanese flea market culture and running my own stall to sell my creations, I came to realize the connection between painting and “making things.” While painting often centers on self-expression, once a work takes physical form, the recipient’s experience becomes the most important element. I believe that not only sight and touch, but also a warm personality and face-to-face communication, are extensions of the artwork itself.

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I graduated from university in 2021 and began living in Japan the following year. Since 2024, I have been pursuing a master’s degree in picture book studies at Kyoto University of the Arts.

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Thanks to the internet, no matter how far apart we may be, you can always connect with me!