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

Hi Yi, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic and creative career driven by my deep passion for design and creativity. It all began with my BFA in Interior Design from Miami University, which laid the initial foundation. To broaden my skills and artistic horizons, I pursued an MFA in Graphic Design at ArtCenter College of Design, spanning graphic, interior, and film production. What sets me apart is my unwavering emphasis on storytelling. I’m dedicated to infusing emotion and narrative into every project, whether for global brands or indie films, aiming to resonate deeply with audiences and leave a lasting impression. My creative journey is underpinned by a philosophy centered on the pursuit of aesthetic excellence, making artistry and design an integral part of my life.

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.
My art is a fusion of multiple disciplines, including graphic design, interior design, and film production. What sets me apart is my unwavering commitment to infusing emotion and narrative into my work, regardless of the medium. I’m most proud of my ability to tell compelling stories through my designs, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.

My journey to where I am today professionally has been anything but easy. Like many in the creative field, I faced challenges, including staying updated with evolving design trends, balancing client expectations with my own vision, and navigating budget and time constraints. However, each obstacle presented a valuable learning opportunity, and I overcame them through continuous learning, resilience, and a willingness to adapt.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way include the importance of perseverance, the value of collaboration, and the need to stay true to my creative vision. I’ve come to understand that every project, regardless of its outcome, contributes to my growth as a designer.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I am dedicated to crafting designs that resonate deeply with people, tell meaningful stories, and leave a lasting impact. My work is a testament to my passion for creativity, my commitment to aesthetic excellence, and my belief in the power of storytelling to connect with audiences on a profound level.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For a week-long visit, I’d start with visiting some museums such as LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art), the Academy Museum of the Motion Picture (AMMP), and The Board. Additionally, we would explore the Gong Gallery, where I recently showcased my work. We’d savor a variety of cuisines, with stops in K-Town for Korean dishes, San Gabriel for diverse Asian cuisine, and Arcadia for a taste of unique dining experiences. If the opportunity arises, I’d love to bring my friend to some film sets to experience how the film industry works up close. We’d also have a chance to relax and unwind at Santa Monica beach, enjoying the sunset. Finally, we’d finish our trip by meeting up with a friend at a ceramics studio, adding a unique creative experience to our itinerary. And, of course, we wouldn’t want to miss a visit to Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city and the stars.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to several crucial pillars in my creative journey. Firstly, my mentors and professors have been instrumental in shaping my skills and vision during my academic pursuits. The collaborative and inspiring creative community in Los Angeles and Changzhou deserves recognition for propelling my career. My friends and family have provided unwavering love and support, believing in my abilities and offering encouragement during challenging times. It’s the collective efforts, mentorship, and inspiration from these individuals and communities that have been the driving force behind my success.

Website: www.yizhu.online

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr._.yi/

Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/yi-zhu-johnny

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