This summer, when we were planning for this month’s When I Grow Up, we wanted to find a college student who could give younger pupils some fresh insights into life after high school. Then one student graced our office as a design intern while she was taking a break in Beijing. Cherry Lee, who studied at Dulwich College Beijing (DCB), provided a new look for many of our columns in our July and August issues. She’s now in Canada, pursuing a Bachelor of Design degree at Emily Carr University of Art and Design in Vancouver. We couldn’t think of a more perfect guest to talk about passion, life in high school and college, and inspiration, all in one go. And these ten Year 4 pupils at her alma mater were just as excited to ask her about many aspects of her craft.
Sophie, 9: “What is your favorite art technique to use and why?”
Most of the work is digitalized and thus art techniques don’t really apply to me in the conventional sense as it would for someone in fine arts major. That being said, some software I like to use are Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign. These programs are essentially like pen and paper for designers.
Kaitlyn, 9: “Why did you want to be a graphic designer?”
A graphic designer creates art with a purpose. It involves a creative and systematic plan to solve a problem or achieve certain objectives, through the use of images, symbols or words. And knowing that I can both create art and help someone with graphic design is just the perfect fit for me.
Joy, 9: “Why did you want to study art at university?”
Art has always been a part of me. I would be the one kid in class everybody turns to look at when the teacher asks, “Who can make a poster?” I always knew this wasn’t just a hobby for me, so when it came to deciding what university to go to, I just knew I had to pursue art. I liked other subjects in school but the idea of doing anything else other than art just did not excite me as much.
Lukasz, 9: “What was your favorite subject at DCB and why?”
Hands down, art! Just because that was something I am really passionate about.
Elizabeth, 9: “Did you always want to be a graphic designer?”
Actually no! I wasn’t exactly sure what I would be studying in university because I was interested in a variety of disciplines. But through “foundation year,” I was able to explore the different options and fell in love with graphic designing.
David, 9: “What was your favorite memory during your time at Dulwich?”
That would have to be the IB Art Show in my final year, where we displayed our works throughout the two years of IB. It was a collection of all the hard work I’d put in and a chance to display to others what I’d been working on. It was my first exhibition and it felt very rewarding to have people show approval of your work.
Rachel, 9: “Do you have any tips about how to become a successful student at DCB?”
Time management is key! This applies to being a successful student at DCB and in university.
Andrew, 9: “Who was your most memorable art teacher and why?”
Mr. Bangay! He taught me from Year 8 all the way till I graduated. He has seen me grow as a person and as an artist. I was very happy he got to see my final exhibition and gave me such great approval and recognition.
Sebastian, 9: “What piece of art work do you like the most why?”
A piece called ‘Absence,’ because it was a photorealistic pencil drawing. I use shading to depict the smooth skin as it creases and dimples. Using pencil I was able to capture the musculature and tiny creases with sublime accuracy. This piece represents what age does to our body and the stories that hold on to our skin. It is a hand portrait of my grandmother, each line and wrinkles have its story.
Patrick, 9 : “Your passion is art; how do I find mine?”
For me I’ve always grown up knowing that I enjoyed art. I would recommend you to think about what you enjoy doing? Once you enjoy something, it changes from “have to do” to “love to do.”
Photos: Dave’s Studio and courtesy of Cherry Lee
Download the digital copy here.
