After several rounds of judging that culminated in hours of deep discussion, the winners of Young Guns 23 have finally been revealed! And to absolutely nobody’s surprise, it’s another outstanding class of phenomenally talented individuals and teams across a wide variety of creative disciplines. This year, we are thrilled to welcome 33 winners into the Young Guns family!
Ahead of the YG23 Ceremony + Party, taking place at Manhattan’s Sony Hall on Wednesday, January 28 — you’ve already snagged your tickets, haven’t you? — we’ve captured a few thoughts from all of this year’s winners.
VANISSA FOO
ILLUSTRATOR
Based:
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Hometown:
Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
VANISSA’S ENTRYHow did Young Guns get on your radar?
From past winner on social media. To me, the Young Guns competition encourages young creatives to stay motivated and continue making great work.
How did you end up in the creative field?
I’ve been interested in drawing since I was a kid and I later attended art and design college, where I graduated with a graphic design background. I worked in a graphic design studio for almost three years and I’m now an independent creative running my own studio under my brand, Humana.
I’m glad I pursued my childhood dream and have stayed passionate about it until today!
Why did you decide to enter this year?
Since I’m turning 28 this year, it felt like the right moment to give it a try and see what I could achieve. I wanted to challenge myself and see where my work stands now.
You only get to submit six projects. How did you decide what made the cut?
I put a lot of efforts on these projects and I’m really love the results! I decided to select them as I hope more people will get to see and enjoy them.
“I was screaming out loud when I found out I won… even though I was sick in bed.”
What was your reaction when you found out you won?
I was screaming out loud when I found out I won the ADC Young Guns, even though I was sick in bed at the time. But I’ve recovered now, haha!
I haven’t celebrated yet, but I’m definitely buying myself a cake!
In what ways does where you’re living right now inspire your creativity?
As an artist, I’m inspired by the things I’m drawn to, the objects I collect, and everyday moments. Whether it’s a cute vintage toy or old fashion magazines and books with great graphic layouts, anything aesthetically pleasing can spark an idea.
Name a creative/professional dream project that you have yet to fulfill.
My dream project would be collaborating with a fashion brand that has a fun and colorful tone. I love dressing up myself, so creating something in that universe would be a dream come true.
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