Victo Ngai
Joyce Kim
Victo Ngai is a Los Angeles-based illustrator from Hong Kong. “Victo” is neither a boy nor a typo, but a nickname derived from Victoria—a leftover from the British colonization.
Ngai’s work has appeared in books, newspapers, magazines, advertisements, and animations. Among her many clients are The New York Times, The New Yorker, Wall Street Journal, General Electric, Lufthansa, Johnnie Walker, Apple, IMAX, MTA Art and Design, McDonald’s, and Tor Forge.
Ngai has received numerous honors, including Forbes 30 Under 30, The Society of News Design, The Society of Publications Designers, Communication Arts, Spectrum Fantastic, and the Society of Illustrators of New York. She’s a current nominee for the Hugo, Locus, and Chesley awards.
Interview
What was your favorite book when you were a child?
Journey to the West
What’s your favorite line from a book?
“All animals are equal, but some animals are more equal than others.”—Animal Farm by George Orwell
Who are your top three favorite authors or illustrators?
J. R. R. Tolkein, George Orwell, and J. K. Rowling
Why did you want to become an author or illustrator?
I like to draw, and I like to be paid to do what I like ever better.
Do you have any advice for future authors or illustrators?
Great work is honest work. Don’t try to be someone else, your greatest and most unique asset lies within yourself.
