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About BY HANLI
BY HANLI is a fashion illustration service specializing in live event sketching and custom projects. No matter the application, each piece is approached to translate likeness into an independent work of art.
Based in Cape Town, my services are conveniently located to travel locally, nationally and abroad with ease while commissions and project are professionally handled through virtual correspondence.
To me, it's all about the human element - a breath breathed, a moment passed - whether it's a portrait or still life.
about hanli
The woman behind the talent
My first fashion illustration at 12 years old was the catalyst of countless skills & influences to the illustrations I create today. An interest in fashion design led me to learning to sew, the feel and fall of fabric and construction of a garment. A degree in Graphic design provided insight into composition, line and conceptual thinking. But it’s the heart of the subject sketched, the story to be told that allows these skills to speak.
This expertise has allowed me to work with multiple clients such as Louis Vuitton, CHANEL and SENSAI in only the first year of pursuing fashion illustration professionally.
My Approach
Influenced by the timeless midcentury aesthetic and renaissance portraiture, I’ve developed a unique style for both quick event sketches as well as detailed commissions – each lending to the other to considerately capture the beauty of each moment and person.
Each subject is analyzed and edited – composition, scale, emphasis, pose and use of medium – creating an art work unique and considered.
