We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna Yu and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I am originally from Wuxi, China, and throughout my years in school, I have moved from Ohio, United States to Shanghai, China, and back to Ohio then stumbled my way to New York City right now. The moving experiences have definitely impacted my understanding of cultural differences and also helped me gain knowledge about how to adjust to new environments.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I didn’t specifically begin my academic journey as a burgeoning creative art student. However, it wasn’t until my high school years that I discovered my love for sketching and watercolor painting, which gradually led to an avid interest in graphic design and motion animation. Inspiration comes to me through my dreams, music, and the stories of people around me. Motion design has helped me open countless doors of opportunity in my career. I have noticed many clients that I am working with are moving away from the conventional static image-based design paradigm, and embracing a more dynamic, motion-focused approach that enables them to unlock more possibilities.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I always enjoy a good brunch on a sunny morning with a refreshing cup of iced latte. Two of my favorite brunch places to check out are Ysabel and The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker.

And if we are going on a little artistic field trip, The Broad Museum in Downtown LA is a great place to explore. The architecture itself feels like a tunnel to an outer space wormhole and the museum contains art pieces from artists such as Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to give a shoutout to my parents, of course. They have been very supportive, and understanding, and have given me so much love throughout my life and I am very grateful for them!

Also wanted to give a shoutout to my friends, coworkers, and my bosses who have helped guide me through the first years of my career!

Website: heyitsanna.com

Instagram: lijia_nna

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.