Aloha and welcome to B.Wan Studio! I’m Billy Wan, an illustrator from Hong Kong, now living in Hawaii. Through my characters, Bili and Bear, I share little moments of joy, love, and self-care. Whether it’s a reminder to slow down, a celebration of culture, or just something cute to make you smile, I’m grateful to share this journey with you.
When I was a little boy growing up in Hong Kong — maybe three or four years old — my dad would often take me to the neighborhood arcade. It was always the highlight of my day, filled with flashing lights, game tokens, and the thrill of winning prizes. One day, while I was there, a stranger — a high school or college-aged guy — walked up to me. He had just won a teddy bear from one of the games, and instead of keeping it, he handed it to me. Maybe he just didn't want it, maybe he was clearing his hands for another game — but to little me, it felt like pure magic.
Someone had chosen to give me a special gift, just because. That tiny moment stuck with me. It was small, simple, but somehow, it mattered. So much so that I still have that bear today, tucked safely away like a little piece of childhood warmth. That memory is what inspired me to create Bili and Bear — characters that carry the same spirit of kindness, joy, and unexpected magic. Through my art, I hope to pass that feeling forward, making someone else's day a little brighter — just like that stranger did for me all those years ago.
That little act of kindness stayed with me, and years later, it became the heart of Bili and Bear — my original characters. They came to life during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, a time when the world felt heavy. I wanted to create something that could bring a little more love, warmth, and positivity into people's lives, even if just for a moment. Bear, of course, is inspired by my childhood story. I never named my stuffed animals — so he's always just been "Bear." And while Bili isn't based on me, I've definitely sprinkled bits of my personality into her. Through my illustrations and animated shorts, I hope their little adventures bring you the same sense of comfort and joy that Bear has always given me.
I truly believe that our energy has a ripple effect — just like how one person's joy can brighten an entire room. A little kindness, a little warmth, and a little love can go a long way in making the world a happier place. That's the heart of Bili and Bear — spreading love, joy, and positivity, one little moment at a time.
