In celebration of our incredible MA show this month, we’re highlighting the creativity and talent of our graduating students by sharing their stories and showcasing their inspiring work. We spoke with Sequential Design/Illustration MA student Wei Hou about the course, their influences and advice to their younger self.

Please tell us a bit about your work and your influences

My major project, The Lucky Me Project, focuses on feminism, exploring significant themes through small, personal stories. 

Rooted in my own experience, I feel fortunate not to have faced severe incidents of gender inequality—yet that very feeling troubles me: Why do I feel lucky? 

Through interviews, questionnaires, and government data, I turn real-life experiences into comics that reveal the often-invisible struggles faced by Taiwanese women in the workplace and at home.

What made you choose your course?

I worked in marketing and advertising for six years and gradually realised that I was far more passionate about visual storytelling than writing strategies or copy. 

I remembered that my childhood dream was to become a comic artist, so I decided to take the leap and study illustration to pursue that passion. 

As I wanted to explore feminism, gender issues, and experimental ways of storytelling, I felt that the Sequential Design/Illustration course was the perfect place to help me realise that ambition. 

Can you tell us about your favourite part of your studies and how it helped the development of you and your practice?

My favourite part was exploring different materials and drawing ways. I particularly enjoyed the experience of workshops such as Riso printing, letterpress, and screen printing. 

These experiences helped me discover my own visual language and develop the most effective way to tell my stories. 

I also had access to a wealth of resources and conversations—through tutorials and peer exchanges—that deepened my understanding of feminism and gender equality. Being part of a multicultural cohort was incredibly inspiring. 

Can you tell us about any staff who particularly inspired you?

Each tutorial I attended offered new insights and perspectives—from storytelling and panel layout to dialogue writing, printing, and even sparking fresh ideas. 

I’m truly grateful to all the tutors who supported and challenged me throughout the year. 

What does Brighton mean to you now?

I’ve completely fallen in love with Brighton! 

As someone whose work centres on feminism and gender, I find Brighton to be a wonderfully creative and open-minded place that has encouraged me to explore freely. 

Can you tell us your plans after graduation?

I hope to continue developing my career as an illustrator in the UK and expand Lucky Me into a larger project. 

I’m particularly interested in combining illustration with feminist research and community engagement, and I would love to explore opportunities where visual storytelling can drive social impact.

Finally, if you could give your younger self any advice about studying a master’s, what would it be?

Be open-hearted and ready to embrace every challenge and new experience—but always stay proud of your own culture. 

If you’d like to see more of Wei’s work, you can view their Instagram at @wei.ullust.