Beat’s 2025 Mocca Fest’s talent report continues! Today, we have the opportunity to Li Lian artist, muralist, comic creator and educator have seen stories around the world that are related to their experiences and share their vulnerability.
Born in Seoul, South Korea, she is a graduate of the London University of the Arts, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in illustration and then received her MFA from the School of Visual Arts in New York City.
Lee’s work focuses on the community and how people connect, working with clients from around the world to illustrations for brands, magazines, public murals and packaging, all done in cheerful ways and manners.
Check out some of her work below, including videos from her 2021 SVA Subway series.
Christian Angeles: Hi Hyesu! Can you tell us your story?
Hyesu Lee: My name is Hyesu Lee, and I am a Korean illustrator, cartoonist and muralist based in Brooklyn.
I was born and raised in Korea until I was in my twenties. I first went to the UK to study illustration as an undergraduate, and then I moved to New York to get an MFA for illustrations.
I started out as a graphic designer and always loved painting, but I didn’t think it was possible to be a full-time job. Especially as a freelance illustrator, it is difficult from time to time and has a lot of ups and downs.
As of now, I also teach illustrations part-time.
Angeles: Yes, it’s an extensive job! So, what did you promote in Mocca 2025?
plum: I showed some of my books at Mocca this year, with almost no original paintings and handmade merchandise.
I want my book Self-love club, Self-love club magazine and The best place to pee. I’ve been writing original paintings of palm size Self-love club.
My idea is to make my original art as easy to use as possible, as a large part of my core belief as an artist is spreading this information I practice for myself. Much of my art is influenced by outsider art and I love it when it feels so carefree on its own.
Angelis: Right there. I firmly believe that the artist’s expression comes from within and reflects the world. Next, what are you most excited about this year?
plum: Overall, I’m happy to see my illustrator friends and connect with the illustration community. There are always too many amazing jobs that I don’t usually check them out in detail, so hopefully this year.
Angeles: Do you particularly want to see any friends? Are you interested in seeing this year or panel exhibition?
plum: Are there many good things this year? Everyone! ! ! 🙂 To be honest, I haven’t had the chance to look into the details of the program, but I’m sure there will be a lot of good ones. I’m also very happy to be part of the group.
Angeles: What is your favorite thing about Mocca Fest?
plum: It’s one of the rare festivals where many illustrators gather and celebrate what we love, and it’s always inspiring and exciting to feel our love for our community.
Angeles: Finally, why do you think indie comics are so important now?
plum: For me, comics are one of the most engaging storytelling I love to do. I can be as personal as possible, or worry-free.
Hyesu Lee will be held at Mocca ’25, with her latest work on Table 158. If you want to attend New York Mocca Fest 2025Click here.
