Hello Cloth5 Fans! We mean it when we say we love every single one of you — Our team is dedicated to bringing you guys consistent League of Legends content that delivers from both a written and aesthetic perspective. We believe that a large part of the ‘heart-and-soul’ of our articles rests in the graphics.
If you didn’t know, we have a fantastic group of artists who hand create each and every one of the splash arts for our writers’ articles. Oftentimes, we don’t feel we are able to truly highlight the work that they do, and we’d like to change that.
So without further ado, welcome to our first Cloth5 Staff Spotlight interview – Featuring Denise “shuyan”!
How long have you been working with Cloth5, and what got you interested in working with us?
I started in mid-June, so I’ve been at Cloth5 for just about two-three months. I first heard about Cloth5 through all of their articles linked on Reddit’s /r/lol, and loved browsing through the blog entries, as well as the tier lists, because I found them to be really informative. I wanted to get involved somehow, and finally decided to apply as an artist to try and contribute.
What are a few of your favorite graphics you’ve created for Cloth5?
“I believe that the artwork should complement the article, instead of diverting attention away.”
So far, my favorite art pieces have been for Tahalden’s “The Six Design Values”— It reflects my own personal style the most, not to mention, the articles he’s written so far are pretty interesting. So I always look forward to working on the art for his upcoming pieces.
I guess the art pieces themselves don’t look like much has been altered, but I believe that the artwork should complement the article, instead of diverting attention away from the article.
Summarize your ‘style’ as an individual artist – What inspires you?
Minimalism inspires me. Simplicity and consistency are two of the most important things when I’m designing. White space is also something I value a lot; I think everything needs room to breathe.
What advice would you give to aspiring designers?
Don’t be afraid to experiment. If you see something you like, ask yourself why you like it, and soon you’ll find yourself incorporating small things here and there in your own work. Ask for feedback. Above all, stay positive and be confident.
Who is your favorite champion, and why?
“Maokai has been my favorite champion ever since I started League.”
Maokai has been my favorite champion ever since I started League. Back when I first started [playing], I played him top lane before I knew how to jungle, and I’m super happy to see him back in play once again in Season Four.
I guess I’m also partial to him because he reminds me of an Ent from Lord of the Rings…
What are your goals and aspirations for the future?
I would love to work in the design/advertising field in general, though being involved with League-related content would be a particularly cool experience. I guess the main goal is to just be content! And to have lots of parakeets.
Do you have any social networks you’d like to share?
“Above all, stay positive and be confident.”
maokai.flavors.me (For any social media links I have, it’s all there!)
A big thank you to Denise for all of her amazing work – Cloth5 would not be the same without her!
Be sure to check out some of the articles Denise has had a hand in creating – We’ve listed a few below!
