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Wan Wan talks lifestyle and picture books in Beijing. Photo: Lin Kan Hsuang |
Quite a few Asians pursue a steady life with a steady income. Yet, the Taiwanese author of picture books Wan Wan, overthrows the concept in her new picture book Can We Just Give Up A Lifelong Secure Job? Also, Wan Wan and her mother published Wan's Mom Finally Grows Up together, recording the touching moments in their relationships and family.
Last Thursday evening, in cooperation with Shanghai Jiujiu Reader Cultural Industrial Co., Ltd., and the People's Literature Publishing House, Wan Wan and her mother held a new book release press conference in Trend Lounge, World Trade Plaza. Another guest, Now Now, a Chinese astrologist, was also invited. Fu Chun, a host from China National Radio, hosted this event and led the conversation.
Wan Wan's picture-book-style blog has attracted 180 million people to visit, making it the most popular blog in Taiwan.
"Wan started drawing comics as soon as she knew how to use pencils," her mom recalled. "But we never thought her art style would become so popular. Honestly, I never had any specific expectation of Wan's future career."
"To be a picture book author, it's important to be talented and persevere. You also have to know when the best timing is so that you can grab good chances to publish or to promote your work. However, I have to say that I really think my success mainly results from good luck," Wan said.
Wan never went through any professional training about painting. The comic figures are all her innovations. "I've read really a lot of comic books and ever tried to imitate others' painting styles, but what can truly represent my essential ideas is the figures you can see in my published books."
Wan described her art style to be airy, ethereal, and romantic.
"It became a trend for many Taiwanese to give up high-paid jobs, becoming farmers or something. It's a personal attitude towards life. I think true happiness and satisfaction are two fundamental elements for a sustainable living," Wan said.
"Through my picture books and blogs, I want to share my feelings with people in the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, and of course my homeland Taiwan."