The designs of the latest Australian Lunar coins from The Perth Mint are the work of talented illustrator Ing Ing Jong.

Ing graduated from Perth's Central TAFE School of Art and Design in 2006 with an Advanced Diploma in Graphic Design, having specialized in illustration and multimedia. She promptly enrolled for a Bachelor of Multimedia at Curtin University in order to undertake advanced studies in animation, web design, illustration and video editing.

As somebody who loves to draw and create her own characters, one of Ing's biggest inspirations is Disney

"I have long admired how Disney animators are able to convey the essence of the character's emotions through their sketches... I decided to study both graphic design and multimedia to add to my portfolio and learn more about the craft that I love."

Her flair and dedication paid off in 2011 with an invitation to join The Perth Mint as a coin designer.

After several successful projects, Ing was asked to design the 2013 Lunar series. Feeling both excited and intrigued, she headed to a local zoo for some genuine 'hands on' research - and was delighted to be given the chance to handle a large python! "I was surprised by how silky it felt to touch and how calm it behaved," she said.

"I reflected my experience by portraying the patience and charming nature of the snake. I particularly enjoyed showing the calmness and control of the animal. The design best reflects a traditional Chinese style of painting where the snake blends in to its natural environment."

To read the complete article, see:Ing brings Snakes to life on Lunar coins(blog.perthmint.com.au/2013/01/15/ing-brings-snakes-to-life-on-lunar-coins/)