September Featured Artist – Lili Chin

I started drawing dogs about seven years ago when I was fostering boston terriers for Boston Buddies Rescue and when I adopted my first dog – Boogie. I was working in animation at the time, and drawing dogs was a personal side project and fundraiser for Boston Buddies Rescue.  When I found myself getting so many requests and drawing dogs almost full-time,  I decided to make this a ‘pet portrait business’ where I donate a percentage to rescue.

My business of drawing dogs also includes working on infographics and educational material for professional dog trainers (eg, Dr Sophia Yin, Grisha Stewart, Dog Decoder app etc), veterinarians, and pet-friendly organizations. Many of these illustrations are about interpreting dog body language and behaviors, and how to help dogs who are reactive. There is also a personal connection here as my own dog Boogie has fearful-reactivity issues.

How did you find your style? Has it changed since you started?

When I started Doggie Drawings I was only doing pet portraits in one style. There is actually quite a lot of variety in my work and I love this. I love that I don’t have to stick with drawing in one specific style all the time. I have the pleasure of working with different types of clients and on different kinds of projects that inspire different styles.

With my custom pet portrait work, I am now also doing a new style based on my Dogs of The World dog breed series. This means that people can now choose from two different styles when they commission a portrait of their dog.  A more realistic style or a simple fun, flat style. The simpler style is my current favorite and I am also selling t-shirts with this style.

What’s your goal as an artist and from where do you draw inspiration?

My goal as an artist is to dedicate more time to the list of ideas that are in my head, and to get these done! There is never enough time!  I am also looking forward to new collaborations and creative or licensing relationships.

As much of a cliche as this sounds, Boogie my boston terrier is my biggest inspiration for all things dog-related. And then there is the internet – people I know, expert friends, vintage-style art with bright color palettes.

Why do you chose to show your artwork on Plywerk?

I received a gift Plywerk print from a friend and artist – Natalia Martinez – who has also been featured on Plywerk – and this was my introduction to Plywerk. I love the quality of Plywerk’s prints and the fantastic customer service.

When did you first realize you were a dog person?

I have always been a dog person. But when I was younger,  I traveled and moved around often so a dog seemed like too big a responsibility, and a cat was easier to manage.. When I adopted my dog, I was 200% ready to have a dog…and I became obsessed with him.

Name an artist who has inspired you.

I am going to stick with dog artists for now. I adore the dog illustrations of Sophie Hogarth and Jess Chappell. Go look them up.

 What is your favorite thing about freelancing?

Working from home!

What is your least favorite thing about freelancing?

Never being sure that I can pay next month’s rent and bills. I have been fortunate so far…touch wood.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A private investigator. It didn’t occur to me as a kid that ‘drawing’ could be a career.

Win a CUSTOM Pet Print from Lili Chin Printed on Plywerk