Jun Cen is an illustrator, animator and designer. Cen received a bachelor’s degree in Printmaking from Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts in China, later, he moved to Baltimore where he completed his MFA degree in Illustration from Maryland Institute College of Art.
Working as a freelance illustrator from 2009 and throughout his studies. In 2013, the very same year that he graduated from MICA, he won the AOI Illustration New Talent Award. His work has been selected for a number shows including The Society of Illustrators Annual Show 56 and The AOI Illustration Awards Exhibition. His animations too have been shown at multiple film festivals including Illustrative 13 Festival and Indie Memphis Film Festival.
Currently based in New York he has worked with international clients from England, France and China. His work has illuminated the pages of Elle, Nobrow, The New York Times, and Wissen. It is this diversity of work that keeps Cen motivated. When questioned, if he would prefer a steady job over freelancing, this is what he said:
It is more stressful […] But I hate getting used to the same mode every day. Dealing with different clients is more challenging to me. I feel fulfilled whenever I finish a project.
Jun Cen’s illustrations, digital and traditional, are always sensitively drafted. They utilise harmonious tones and subtle touches of texture to give a feeling of calmness and quietness, making much of his work close to hypnotic.
You can find more of Cen’s portfolio on his website and his tumblr.