Ethereal Figures: Illustrations by Helen Xu

Chinese artist Helen Xu creates delicate portraits that drift between reality and dream. Working on iPad using Procreate, she crafts soft, introspective scenes where young women appear suspended in quiet moments, surrounded by birds, flowers and fleeting, symbolic forms.

Helen’s style is defined by layering and subtle transitions. Skin tones dissolve into mist-like gradients, while fine linework defines hair, eyes and hands with precision. Around these figures, elements like moths, branches or flowing shapes weave in and out, sometimes merging with the body itself. These additions are not simply decorative, they act as extensions of thought and feeling, shaping the atmosphere of each composition.

There’s a careful balance at play between control and softness. Clean digital edges meet hazy overlays, and muted palettes are punctuated by moments of color. The work feels light, but never fragile, holding its structure while allowing emotion to surface through restraint.

For more of Helen’s work, take a look at her portfolio on Behance and follow her latest updates on Instagram.

More illustrations via Behance