Yanlan Gu, born in 1991, currently resides in Singapore and holds a Master’s degree in Illustration from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, USA. Specializing in children's illustration, her work is filled with a playful charm that delicately captures the innocence and purity of a child’s world, creating a captivating visual experience. Yanlan is also passionate about traditional Chinese art, particularly skilled in Chinese painting and paper cutting. Her illustrations have been featured multiple times in the Academy of Art University's Spring Show, earning widespread attention and acclaim.

In October 2024, she was invited to join the Asian Art Association Singapore (Illustration).

As a freelance illustrator, I am passionate about expressing emotions and culture through art, dedicated to blending traditional and modern styles to create meaningful work. I have a deep appreciation for Asian art, especially Chinese brush painting, which has not only shaped my artistic style but also inspired me to merge it with contemporary illustration, exploring fresh avenues of artistic expression. I believe that art serves as a bridge across languages and cultures, and through children’s illustration, I aim to pass on culture and values to the next generation.

In my creative process, whether illustrating for children or collaborating on licensed art projects, I strive to evoke an emotional connection in my audience. My work has been featured in multiple exhibitions at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco, and I have collaborated with educational institutions on designing commemorative items and artwork. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to my artistic path.

● 2012: Awarded the "Excellence Award" for the mascot design in the "Nanjing Youth Olympic Games" themed competition, organized by the National University Student Advertising Art Competition Committee.
● 2013: Received the "Finalist Award" for a graphic advertisement in the 11th China University Student Advertising Art Festival Academy Award, hosted by the China Advertising Art Festival Committee.
● 2017: Created a hand-drawn storybook for Sunshine Daycare.
● 2018–2021: Volunteered as an art teacher at Sunset Boulevard Childcare in San Francisco, USA, teaching children painting and crafts.
● 2022: Licensed artwork Hello, Piggy! exhibited at the Spring Show at the Academy of Art University, San Francisco, USA.
● 2023: Designed commemorative clothing and stamps for Sutro Elementary School in San Francisco, USA.
● 2023: Illustrated Ruben's New Friend, editorial illustration Obesity, and licensed artwork Fruit Lover, all exhibited at the Spring Show at the Academy of Art University, San Francisco, USA.