Yifan Ling

Yifan Ling has become a bestselling graphic artist since graduating from our MA Visual Communication in 2006. She's recently been given a Professional Achievement Award at the Education UK Alumni Awards 2016, organised by the British Council.

More widely known by her pen name, Buddy, Yifan has been creating manga comics professionally for 12 years. During this time, she has published more than 20 books internationally and her online manga story 'Guarding' has been viewed by over 110 million people. 'Guarding' will soon be developed into a television show and a film in China and South Korea.

Yifan's work was recognised too whilst still studying here, when she won the Best Recommended Award as part of the Macmillan Prize 2006 for her children's book 'Cactus'.

"My life in the UK inspired me to observe real people around me and bring them into my cartoon works, which I am still doing today."

Yifan Ling's tutor at Birmingham City University, Professor of Graphic Art, Andrew Kulman said:

"Yifan came to Birmingham City University with an excellent reputation as a leading comic artist and it was great to be able to introduce her to new ways of thinking and making images. We enjoyed really fruitful conversations and the resulting work was astounding. This is why we do what we do – it is always great to be surprised by new directions and seeing someone reach higher."