The Nostalgic Embrace of Yue Wu’s Glossy Art
Manga and anime styles have evolved from the caricature-esque and glitzy form of the 70s to today’s individualistic and filter-smooth look.
In between these eras, many iconic styles have faded, unable to catch up with the increasingly rapid loop of trends. Fetching back the shoujo classics of the year 2000, Yue Wu’s profile is nothing less than eye candy. Tender, flirty, and whimsical, the established illustrator’s art is simply enchanting.
Reminiscing of the best of shoujo manga like Vampire Knight and Fruits Basket, Yue’s art blends the boundaries of the realm between the contemporary woman and the Nippon comic. The 22-year-old Canadian freelance illustrator has stated in a previous interview that her main inspiration is the geniuses behind the timeless visuals of Sailor Moon and Neon Genesis Evangelion. However, it seems like fans are also fond of her eclectic touches of reawakened Y2K trends, like mini skirts and beaded bling. Soft and soothing, Yue pays homage to modern femininity outside of the male gaze, unapologetically indulging her female characters in their girly side and reappropriating the definition of womanhood.
Describing it as “kawaii” would not be enough, as Yue’s illustrations touch on so many aspects of pop culture and art. Evolving from recalling 80s mangas through her creations to developing animations and ethereal, gyaru-meets-pastel oeuvres, the artist gives life to everyday things like lipsticks, phonecalls, and sunglasses, channeling the affection and attachment we have to such favoured items.
Her following blew up in the past year for all the right reasons. Thanks to her unique style and hard work, Yue’s account reached fans and big figures alike all across the globe. In fact, she has created numerous album covers for the charming Korean RnB duo OuiOui, as well as creating content for established brands such as Rimowa, Gentle Monster, and Saie. Her most cherished collaboration is said to be with Jean Paul Gaultier for their LOGO-LTIER capsule.
About the Author:
Mizuki Khoury
Born in Montreal, based in Tokyo. Sabukaru’s senior writer and works as an artist under Exit Number Five.
