Seoul-based fashion illustrator Semi Park, better known as miP, may have a background in womenswear design, but it’s through her work on menswear illustrations – she is particularly fond of runway shows – she is building a reputation as a rising fashion illustrator. The use of muted, pastel colors and smooth texture and feel are signature features of her illustrations. Semi currently works on freelance projects, accepting commissions from fashion brands and magazines. Read on as she reflects on how she found herself gravitating towards fashion illustration, the challenges of her work and current projects.
What did you study and how did you become interested in fashion illustration?
I’ve loved drawing, especially people and what are they wearing, since I was young. That’s why I decided to study fashion design. However, to my surprise, things were not as I expected; there were not many chances to draw at school, so I would draw fashion models by myself, and it became one of my hobbies. One day, I drew my favorite fashion model, I sent the drawing to him via Facebook as a gift. He was delighted, and shared it with his family and friends. Thanks to him, I became more confident in my drawings, and I started uploading my work online. I started to realize that there are a lot of people who liked my drawings. So, I decided to be a fashion illustrator.
Are there any fashion illustrators who have influenced your work?
My favorite fashion illustrators are Rene Gruau and Richard Kilroy. Also, from time to time, I have been influenced by photography and fashion shows.
Have you taken commissions? What is the biggest challenge when creating something for someone else?
Yes, I take commissions from magazines and brands. I was requested to draw the exterior of a fashion shop. However, I had not illustrated shops or buildings before. So, I could say that this was my biggest challenge. Since then, I have been thinking I should try to draw various subjects more often.
Why did you choose runway illustrations?
The main reason I draw runway illustration is that I believe that clothes look most beautiful on the runway.
You are mainly illustrating menswear. Why do you prefer it to womenswear?
I studied women’s fashion for my whole college life. I realized I was very tired of learning about womenswear, and I wanted to try something new. Once, I had an assignment to illustrate woman’s wear, but I submitted men’s wear illustration instead. Since then, I have been interested in men’s fashion, and started drawing it because I can’t wear them! For drawing menswear, I read many men’s fashion magazines. And I notice that there are many kinds of style. I love the neatness and unisex point of menswear.
Which is your most popular/well-received illustration to date?
Prada SS16 and Agi & Sam SS16 portrait.
Any specific techniques you follow while you are designing?
Well, I just use Photoshop in my old tablet. I think there is nothing that I can say of my own technique.
Who was your favorite collection for AW16 whose looks you can’t wait to draw?
Most favorite menswear collection were Louis Vuitton and Dior Homme. And, I also want to draw the Alexander McQueen women’s collection!
Who can hire you? How are you attracting new clients?
Fashion magazines and companies. I try to show potential clients various drawing styles, and upload my work on my website and social profiles, such as Instagram and Behance, as well as frequently as I can.
What are you currently working on?
I am working on a project that includes drawing daily outfits. From now on, I would like to show many different outfits regardless of men or womenswear through my illustrations. You can follow my work on my website and my tumblr.
www.slottet.ivyro.net
Images © Semi Park
