Design innovation for illustrators and art amateurs: a system mapping of shared atelier for chinese artists

This research study investigates the intrinsic needs of Chinese illustrators and art amateurs, employing advanced design methods to enhance their learning and life experiences. Focused on overcoming information access disparities in illustration knowledge, the research addresses the challenges faced by Chinese illustrators, considering factors such as stress, economic anxiety, and identity issues. The study delves into the demands of illustrators with overseas study backgrounds and those within China, shedding light on the industry’s rapid development amid a lack of mature cases in illustration education platforms. The literature review delves into cutting-edge discipline research and pertinent issues in illustration education, while case studies explore 12 globally recognized illustration platforms. Design research methods, including questionnaires, interviews, and co-design workshops, involve 109 surveyed illustrators, identifying five major needs: knowledge parity, alternative income sources, supportive art communities, interdisciplinary learning, and non-commercial art practices. Utilizing the survey results, the design phase employs advanced concepts and the C.R.I.C.C. system as a template to create innovative outputs, including the Illustration Knowledge Tree Model, the Candy Model, and a system mapping. These outputs aim to establish a systematic illustration knowledge structure, facilitate a positive cycle of illustration knowledge exchange between China and international communities, and visually represent relationships within the illustration knowledge system. The discussion and conclusion emphasize three key contributions: the identification of five major needs through design methods, the application of advanced design to Chinese illustrators and art amateurs, and the construction of the Candy Model, envisioning a new cycle for illustration knowledge. The Illustration Knowledge Tree Model enhances the systematic structure of illustrator knowledge, collectively revitalizing the stagnant system and contributing to the advancement of the illustration field.