Today we’d like to introduce you to Sherry Li.
Hi Sherry, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hi, my name is Shuhui Li, but you can call me Sherry. I’m from China and now based in Baltimore, working as a freelance illustrator.
My path to illustration wasn’t exactly a straight line. I studied Interior Design for my undergrad back in China, then went on to get a Master’s in Business Administration. After working for a few years, I realized that what I really loved was illustration. I started teaching myself in my free time, and that eventually led me to apply to the Illustration MA program at MICA (Maryland Institute College of Art).
Now that I’ve graduated, I’m fully focused on building a career in illustration. It’s what I love, and I’m putting everything I have into growing and finding my voice in this field.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Honestly, the hardest part was giving up my old job and throwing myself completely into learning illustration. Going back to school was a tough decision. It felt like starting over, and that’s never easy.
Some people might think switching careers and going back to study is a waste of time—but for me, it was the best decision I’ve ever made. I finally found something I truly love, and working toward it every day makes me feel happy and fulfilled.
I believe in the choice I made, and I’m doing everything I can to make it count.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Right now, I mainly work on illustration-related projects as a freelancer. I take on commissions for magazines, creating things like map illustrations, infographics, patterns, posters, and even GIFs. I also enjoy hands-on crafts like tufting and ceramics, which I practice alongside my illustration work. I’m planning to participate in an art fair next year.
My illustrations are usually bright and simple, and I hope they bring joy to the people who see them. Friends and my peers often tell me, “Your work just makes me happy when I look at it.” That really means a lot to me, and it’s something I’m proud of—because beyond being visually appealing or practical, I hope my illustrations can also offer emotional value and a bit of positivity to whoever sees them.
What’s next?
I have a small plan for the future—I’m hoping to open an online illustration shop in about a year. I’d love to collaborate with illustrators of different styles and create all kinds of illustrated products to sell. For me, it’s not just about promoting my own work, but also about supporting and uplifting other artists in the creative community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shuhuili.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherryli_art/
