aiyin Zheng
illustration
Edinburgh College of Art
Graduates: 2026
Specialisms: Illustration
My location: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
aiyin Zheng
First Name: aiyin
Last Name: Zheng
University / College: Edinburgh College of Art
Course / Program: illustration
Graduates: 2026
Specialisms: Illustration
My Location: Edinburgh, United Kingdom
Website: Click To See Website
About
I am a visual development artist and illustrator based in Edinburgh, working across illustration, character design and visual storytelling.My work combines imaginative world-building with personal and emotional narratives, exploring themes of growth, grief, memory and self-discovery. I enjoy developing stories through characters, environments, illustration and handmade forms, creating visual worlds that feel both surreal and emotionally grounded.I am interested in how images can communicate experiences that are difficult to express through words, and how visual storytelling can create space for reflection and connection.
Illustration Picture Book: I Didn't Know You Yet
I Didn't Know You Yet is a picture book inspired by my childhood experiences of keeping pets. Through a symbolic story about a shepherd collecting memories left behind by animals, the book explores themes of love, responsibility, grief, and learning to let go. Rather than focusing only on loss, it reflects on the gradual process of understanding another life and recognizing that love also means acceptance and goodbye. Created for older children, young adults, and adults, the project combines traditional watercolor illustration with handmade bookbinding to create an intimate reading experience. It invites readers to reflect on their own memories while gently exploring the emotional connections between people and animals. Full Project Link: https://aiyinart.cargo.site/ididntknowyouyet
Competitions
