Yukai Du on Making Art, Finding Your Style, and Out-Creating AI: 5 Lessons for Creatives

In this episode of the School of Motion podcast, Joey chats with Yukai Du, a Chinese-born, London-based illustrator and animator, about her journey into art and animation. Yukai’s story is packed with insights for creatives aiming to carve out their own space in the industry—straight from someone who’s done exactly that.

Here are five takeaways that just might make you see your own creative path in a new way:

💼  1. Internships Are Where the Real Lessons Happen

Yukai’s take on internships is spot-on: they’re more than resume fillers. They’re where you find out what you actually want to do—and what you don’t. Internships helped her figure out her strengths and preferences, and her advice? Don’t just go for the “big name.” Look for gigs that push you creatively and help you build a foundation. They’re a test drive for the career you’re building.

🦸  2. Your Style is Your Superpower, So Commit to It

Consistency isn’t just a buzzword; it’s what got Yukai noticed. Her portfolio was a coherent collection that showcased her signature style, and that intentionality set her apart. If you’re developing your own look, keep at it—even if it means endless late-night projects. A distinct style isn’t just “nice to have”; it’s what makes people remember you in a sea of other talented folks.

🎨  3. Color Without Chaos

Color can be overwhelming, even for pros. Yukai’s solution? Start small. Drawing from risograph printing, she limits her initial palette and adds layers thoughtfully. This minimal approach keeps her work clean and cohesive. If you’ve ever felt lost in a rainbow of swatches, try Yukai’s approach—less is usually more, and it’ll save you time (and headaches).

🧱  4. Show the Process, Not Just the Finished Piece

Social media isn’t just for finished work; it’s for the journey. Yukai makes a point of sharing her process, which lets people see the real work behind the polish. In an era where AI can spit out “art” in seconds, showing your process is a way to stand out. People connect with the realness—the sketches, the test runs, the things that didn’t quite work. Don’t be afraid to pull back the curtain.

🤪  5. AI Can’t Compete With Your Personality

AI is everywhere, and yes, it’s powerful. But Yukai believes the value of a truly original style is something AI can’t replicate. Rather than get distracted by the latest AI features, she’s staying focused on what makes her work hers. If you’re worried about tech taking over, remember: AI doesn’t have your taste, your quirks, or your perspective. That’s your edge.

Yukai’s story is a reminder that creative careers aren’t linear, and success often means doubling down on what makes you unique. For more of her journey and insights, check out the full podcast episode.

Yukai's website: https://www.yukaidu.com/

Yukai on Behance: https://www.behance.net/Doralice/

Yukai on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yukai_du/