Hi, I'm Phiphi Tran, a creative and detail-oriented illustrator with a passion for visual storytelling, especially in children’s books. I love bringing characters and stories to life with expressive illustrations that spark curiosity and joy in young readers. My work is deeply inspired by cultural storytelling, nature, and the everyday emotions of childhood. I enjoy collaborating with authors and publishers to develop engaging narratives and characters. My goal is to create inclusive, emotionally resonant art that not only entertains but also teaches values like empathy, gratitude, and emotional resilience.

Phiphi Tran

Hi, I'm Phiphi Tran, a creative and detail-oriented illustrator with a passion for visual storytelling, especially in children’s books. I love bringing characters and stories to life with expressive illustrations that spark curiosity and joy in young readers. My work is deeply inspired by cultural storytelling, nature, and the everyday emotions of childhood. I enjoy collaborating with authors and publishers to develop engaging narratives and characters. My goal is to create inclusive, emotionally resonant art that not only entertains but also teaches values like empathy, gratitude, and emotional resilience.

Available to hire

Hi, I’m Phiphi Tran, a creative and detail-oriented illustrator with a passion for visual storytelling, especially in children’s books. I love bringing characters and stories to life with expressive illustrations that spark curiosity and joy in young readers. My work is deeply inspired by cultural storytelling, nature, and the everyday emotions of childhood.

I enjoy collaborating with authors and publishers to develop engaging narratives and characters. My goal is to create inclusive, emotionally resonant art that not only entertains but also teaches values like empathy, gratitude, and emotional resilience.

See more

Language

English
Fluent
Vietnamese
Fluent

Work Experience

Freelance Children's Book Illustrator at Self-employed
January 1, 2023 - June 8, 2024
Developed illustrations for picture books, early readers, and educational material. Created storyboards, final artwork, and cover designs for author-publisher clients. Designed culturally thoughtful, inclusive characters. Delivered layered files optimized for print and digital formats.
Author & Illustrator — I Want to Travel Too! at Independent Project
January 1, 2025 - January 11, 2030
Wrote and illustrated a 32-page picture book about a young Vietnamese girl's emotional journey across five magical cities. Developed interactive scenes where readers earn “Happiness Coins” through empathy and a positive attitude. Inspired by personal family experiences, the book teaches emotional resilience, gratitude, and care for others.
Illustrator – Poster Projects at Various Clients & Events
January 1, 2022 - June 8, 2024
Created custom illustrated posters for educational and cultural initiatives. Integrated hand-drawn elements with thoughtful layout and typography. Adapted work for social media, digital display, and large-format print.
Illustrator & Designer — Magdalen Magazine at University of Oxford
January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2022
Designed editorial illustrations and visual layouts for a student-led magazine. Collaborated with writers and editors to develop concepts and ensure visual consistency. Created illustrations for both print and digital editions.
Freelance Children's Book Illustrator at Self-employed
January 1, 2023 - June 6, 2024
Developed illustrations for picture books, early readers, and educational material. Created storyboards, final artwork, and cover designs for author-publisher clients. Designed culturally thoughtful, inclusive characters. Delivered layered files optimized for print and digital formats.
Author & Illustrator — I Want to Travel Too! (Upcoming) at Independent Project
January 1, 2025 - January 11, 2030
Wrote and illustrated a 32-page picture book about a young Vietnamese girl's emotional journey across five magical cities. Developed interactive scenes where readers earn “Happiness Coins” through empathy and positive attitude. Inspired by personal family experiences, the book teaches emotional resilience, gratitude, and care for others.
Illustrator – Poster Projects at Various Clients & Events
January 1, 2022 - June 6, 2024
Created custom illustrated posters for educational and cultural initiatives. Integrated hand-drawn elements with thoughtful layout and typography. Adapted work for social media, digital display, and large-format print.
Illustrator & Designer — Magdalen Magazine at University of Oxford
January 1, 2022 - December 31, 2022
Designed editorial illustrations and visual layouts for a student-led magazine. Collaborated with writers and editors to develop concepts and ensure visual consistency. Created illustrations for both print and digital editions.

Education

BA (Hons) Fine Art at University of Dundee / Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design
January 1, 2023 - July 1, 2025
BA (Hons) Fine Art at University of Dundee / Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design
January 1, 2023 - July 1, 2025

Qualifications

Diploma in Studio Practice & Digital Media
January 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023
Diploma in Studio Practice & Digital Media
January 1, 2023 - December 31, 2023

Industry Experience

Travel & Hospitality, Education, Retail, Media & Entertainment, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services
    paper Designing and illustrating a book cover

    This book cover design beautifully captures the essence of childhood through the traditional Vietnamese lotus flower, a symbol of purity, growth, and resilience. The delicate lotus imagery intertwines with soft, nostalgic elements to evoke a sense of innocence and cultural heritage. The design reflects the journey of childhood — rooted in tradition yet blossoming with possibility — making it a meaningful and visually captivating cover that resonates with readers on both an emotional and cultural level.

    paper Hand Drawn Illustration Design for merchandise

    This 2023 Year of the Cat calendar hand illustration celebrates the charm and personality of feline companions through a playful and artistic lens. Featuring three uniquely designed cats—each with its own character and expression—the illustration combines a stylized hand interacting with a whimsical calendar layout. The design captures themes of curiosity, comfort, and companionship, blending traditional symbolism with a modern, hand-drawn aesthetic. Ideal for personal planners, calendars, T- shirt print, prints, or cat-themed stationery, this piece brings warmth and creativity to everyday organization.