From Minimal Forms to Human Emotion: The Distinctive Vision of Illustrator Ard Su
Interview
Meet Ard Su, a New York–based illustrator whose work blends clarity, rhythm, and conceptual precision. Since earning her MA in Illustration from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2020, Ard has received multiple awards from the Society of Illustrators Annual Competition, including a Gold Medal, and her works have been selected for major illustration competitions such as American Illustration and 3x3.
Her work was featured in the Society of Illustrators Annual Exhibitions in 2024 and 2025. In 2020, she was shortlisted for the “Hello! Xiaokang” Creative Design Competition under the Shanghai Citizens Art Festival, with her work exhibited at the Shanghai Tower. In 2019, she participated in The Shanghairen project, with her works exhibited at Hengshan·Heji and Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport, among other venues.
She keeps it simple: “I like dogs. I like shapes and their potentials. And I like that moment when I find a smart solution to a design challenge.” Her illustrations often combine minimal geometric forms with human elements, turning abstract or complex topics into stories that feel both precise and emotionally resonant.
To explore Ard’s visual style, creative approach, and the ideas behind her work, we asked her a few questions — and we’re excited to share her answers on the blog!
How would you describe your visual style to someone seeing your work for the first time?
It’s idea-driven. In my exploration of the human body, I often use geometric forms to enhance expression while keeping the overall composition minimal and clean.
What’s the most challenging part of illustration for you — and what’s the most rewarding?
Sometimes I take on several projects in a row that revolve around similar themes, commissioned by different clients. My work is primarily conceptual, so coming up with the third, fourth, or fifth unique idea under the same topic can become gradually challenging. The most rewarding part is when I finally break through. That still wows myself, because it reinforces that belief that there truly are no borders when it comes to creativity.
You’ve worked with clients like The New York Times and Bloomberg. What makes a collaboration feel like a good fit for you?
When clients reach out not because I know how to use the tools, but because they value my perspective and judgment. I appreciate it when they come to me for something distinct rather than something safe.
How do you keep your creativity fresh when working on commercial assignments?
The challenges those assignments bring are stepping stones to creativity. At first, they might seem like obstacles, but once you find the right balance and step over them, they can lift you to a higher place. Good rest, some level of distraction, these all help.
What’s your favorite tool, playlist, or ritual when you draw?
A cup of hot tea by my side.
Thanks for the insights, Ard Su! Be sure to check out more of her work.
