Female artists - Huihsuan Iris Chou

For almost a year, I have been volunteering as a gallery invigilator at the Camden Art Centre in London. This experience has been both informative and inspiring, allowing me to delve into contemporary art forms I am less familiar with. During this time, I have had several opportunities to connect with other volunteers, most of whom are art students or creatives exploring different artistic mediums. 

Among the volunteers I have formed meaningful connections with is Huihsuan Iris Chou. Soon after seeing her first drawing, I decided to invite her to participate in my “Female Artists” portrait project (a series documenting women creating across various disciplines). When she enthusiastically accepted, we arranged a session together.

Hui is a Taiwanese illustrator, graphic designer and animator based in London. Given how strongly her work is linked to nature, we decided to take the photographs in Hampstead Heath. I captured her while drawing and admired - something I have seen her doing whilst at the Art Centre - how easily, quickly and intuitively the pen flows on the paper giving life to a new colourful view of life. The importance of recording life through sketches makes Hui often work when travelling. Her memories, to whom she gives shape on the paper, serve as both personal documentation and artistic expression, revealing her inspirations and aspirations.

From behind my camera, I noticed the serene concentration in her eyes, a tranquility that I could further appreciate when we sat chatting in the Burgh House’s garden in Hampstead. I particularly loved browsing through the sketchbooks she generously gifted me. Through her masterful use of colour and line, these sketches transcend mere representation. The trees, buildings, and landscapes seem to emerge from the page, immersing the viewer in a new, dreamy reality.

You can see Hui’s beautiful work on her Instagram page: @xuannnne_and keep updated on the fairs she attends.