Hi, I’m Lillian Li
I am a self-taught illustrator based in Beijing, with a lifelong passion for art. Growing up, I was drawn to creativity but also excelled in math, which led me to pursue a degree in Financial Management at the Central University of Finance and Economics. After more than a decade as a senior finance manager, the call of art proved irresistible, and I transitioned into a full-time career in illustration.
My primary focus is conceptual editorial illustration, where I create narrative-driven pieces with coordinated color schemes, visual metaphors, and a unique approach to interpreting briefs. I enjoy transforming complex ideas into visual stories that engage and inspire, always with an emphasis on creativity and originality.
In addition to editorial work, I also specialize in book cover design, where I combine storytelling with bold visual aesthetics to create covers that captivate and intrigue readers. My work in product-based design involves crafting visual systems for various products, with attention to both functionality and branding to create designs that are both effective and distinctive.
Selected Clients
The Lancet Infectious Diseases
The Lancet Respiratory Medicine
The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women’s Health
Vision Magazine
Changjiang Literature & Art Publishing House
Awards & Recognitions
︎World Illustration Awards
2025 Longlisted (Editorial)
2024 Shortlisted (Editorial)
2024 Shortlisted (Book Covers)
2024 Longlisted (Design, Product & Packaging)
2023 Longlisted (Design, Product & Packaging)
︎Society of Illustrators Annual Awards
2025-68th Jury Selected, Exhibition and Book (Editorial)
︎Communication Arts Illustration Competition
2026 Shortlisted (Editorial)
︎Creative Quarterly
2023-74th Winner (Graphic Design)
2023-74th Runner-up (Illustration)
2023-73th Runner-up (Illustration)
︎Tapirulan illustration competition
2024-19th Selected (Illustration)