Meet Connor Yang | Artist & freelance illustrator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Connor Yang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Connor, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
Born in the 1995 in the Jieyang，in Chaozhou-Shantou region of Guangdong, China. I come from a relatively conservative and traditional Chaozhou family. As a result, I’ve been introverted since childhood, not adept at expressing emotions, and have felt confused about my identity while being filled with curiosity. These experiences provided inspiration for my creative endeavors, initiating a profound exploration of art.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art mainly revolves around my life experiences and LGBTQ themes. In China, few artists explore this area, so I’ve taken it upon myself to shed light on the lives of LGBTQ artists here. Strictly speaking, this year marks my first in fine art. Previously, I focused more on commercial illustration. It’s taken me a year to search for my style, my language in art, something that sets me apart. Success hasn’t come easily, given the tough art market this year. However, I believe patience is key. My approach is to keep creating, preparing myself to ensure that many people get to see my art. I aim for global recognition of my work.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Shanghai is an international city, there are more about city life, Therefore, my plans will revolve more around urban themes. As an artist, I aim to showcase art in this vibrant city. Shanghai boasts numerous galleries and art museums, such as those in M50 and the Westbund art areas. Places like MAP (Museum of Art Pudong) offer a multitude of options, requiring at least a couple of days to explore fully. When it comes to dining, I frequently visit Donghu Road, known for its array of excellent restaurants. My personal favorite is Chicken & Egg. Additionally, the nightlife here includes parties like Plastics Party and Medusa Party, which celebrate the LGBTQ+ community, featuring themes of gay culture, queerness, and drag performances

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I think there is a person should be my boyfriend, Daniel. We met each other 3 years ago, and at that moment I was still working as a freelance illustrator, no sure if I can be a fine art artist. Cause that is not an easy way for me, I need to start over, but he really supports me, he loves my artwork, and he said do what you want, your art is great! That is really touch, and I really love him, He constantly encourages me.

Instagram: Connor_his