Leah Han

Originally from Chengdu, Leah has been on a creative journey ever since she first grasped a pencil at the age of four. “Drawing has always been my ultimate comfort zone and my favourite form of self-expression,” she says. From 16 she began formal training, graduating in Fashion Design at Sichuan University, then was tutored in the traditional Chinese practice of Gongbi-hua, with its meticulous focus on brush control, flowing lines and layered colouring techniques. It’s a method that heavily informs her approach to this day, helping her develop a style full of soft palettes, storytelling and forms influenced by Tang Dynasty art. As well as her appreciation for the tonal and emotional aspects of any brief, clients admire Leah’s high standards, dedication and professionalism. Leah is further inspired by travel, absorbing the energy and unique colour palette of each place she visits.

Approach

When an idea lands, Leah begins with chaotic brainstorming in Procreate, creating multiple sketches and roughs to explore the composition and content of the piece before honing it to something balanced and pleasing to the eye. She is gifted when it comes to colour sense, using gentle palettes with bursts of saturated colour to intrigue the viewer and advance both the feeling and narrative of the piece as it is completed in Photoshop.

Key software

Procreate and Adobe Photoshop.

Style

Leah’s individual style is elegant, classy and deeply rooted in graceful, feminine energy. Even when no human form is present, there is a sophisticated sense of romance and grace in her illustrations.

Languages

English, Mandarin.