FS: ​Did you attend a design school?

Belinda: I did a B Design in Visual Communication where I learnt most of my computer Graphic Design skills but was always drawn (excuse the pun!) to the hand generated side of things.

FS: Your illustrations have been featured in Elle Magazine, which is a big deal. How did you find out about this? How did you feel when you found out you would be featured in Elle?

Belinda: It was all by chance - I introduced myself to a blogger at the markets one day who happened to work there. I can’t explain the excitement! As an artist, it’s always a big deal when your hard work is received well by others, and Elle Magazine is definitely one of my proudest achievements. It’s so important to celebrate any victory, big or small. 

French Sommelier: We always like to ask a more random/fun question: How many pairs of shoes do you have in your closet because you seem to draw a lot of them?

Belinda: I’ve just moved house and was surprised at how many pairs I had - current count is 21 not including a box I’ve left in storage.  

French Sommelier: I saw two illustrations related to Moët Champagne (congratulations, by the way, on your engagement!); Is Moët the gold standard for sparkling wine in Australia?

Belinda: Thank you! Moët to me represents celebration and happiness, so I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anybody for a happy occasion. 

French Sommelier: Do you work on special order? For example, if someone sends you a photo of their loved one, could you create a portrait for them?

Belinda: I love commissions, and draw everything but people! I’m still perfecting my technique for faces so until then, I’ll stick to adorable pets and fashion!


Thanks to Belinda for answering our questions. You can find more of her illustrations on Instagram. Do not hesitate to follow her, as she posts weekly. And make sure to visit her Etsy page to bring home some of her artwork or to find the perfect gift for your loved ones this holiday season. 
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Elizabeth

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BELINDA XIA
Aka belindaxiaillustration on Instagram
Aka belindaxillustration on Etsy

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​We fell in love with Belinda's work over social media. She's a talented artist with a special interest in fashion and a unique creativity. So we contacted her for a small interview.

​French Sommelier: Looking at your illustrations, you seem very influenced by French culture. Would you say you are, and why?

Belinda: I’m very flattered you’ve said that! I love the French culture - the elegance, simplicity & beauty of it all and whilst I’m not directly influenced by France, I am always inspired by French designers (Saint Laurent, Dior, Givenchy!). 

FS: How do you get your inspiration?      

Belinda: Mostly through fashion - it’s such a beautiful expression of personality and design so I love being able to translate that into illustrations. I’m drawn to simple lines and monochromatic palettes.

FS: Can you tell us a bit more about your process and technique?   

Belinda: I’m always trying to expose myself to inspiration through magazines, social media so am constantly surrounded by things I want to draw! I work with inks and watercolours, and currently practicing pencil drawing to expand my repertoire!