Meet Fei Mai | Graphic Designer

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

Hi Fei, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
My journey into a creative career was an organic evolution. Growing up in Guangzhou, China, a city where tradition and modernity coexist, I was captivated by the intricate designs of traditional Chinese calendars and the dynamic layouts of newspapers and magazines. This early fascination with colors, shapes, and storytelling ignited my passion for visual communication.

I was particularly drawn to the way design could be used to connect with people on a deeper level. The ability to transform abstract ideas into tangible, visually compelling experiences was incredibly appealing. I wanted to create work that not only captured attention but also sparked conversations and left a lasting impression. This passion, coupled with my belief in the power of design to shape culture and solve problems, led me to pursue a career in this dynamic field.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My design practice is rooted in storytelling and the creation of immersive experiences. I specialize in transmedia brand identity, where I blend digital innovation with traditional craftsmanship to craft compelling narratives.

Projects like XOCOLATL, a hypothetical chocolate hotel that celebrates the entire cacao journey, and The Human Experience, which delved into the complexities of mortality through design, showcase my ability to tackle diverse and challenging projects. For XOCOLATL, I combined sustainable materials like burlap with computer-generated coding and AI image generation to create a holistic brand experience, from collateral printing to the immersive hotel interiors.

The rebrand of The Pig Inn allowed me to explore the intersection of nature, agriculture, and hospitality, creating an interactive digital experience that complemented the physical space. The Word Museum project demonstrated my ability to combine technology with language, creating an immersive and engaging environment.

Whether it’s rebranding a countryside hotel or developing an interactive museum, I strive to find unexpected connections between elements and evoke emotional responses. My goal is to create designs that are not only visually appealing but also intellectually stimulating and leave a lasting impression.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d prioritize showcasing California’s vibrant culture and natural beauty. A hike in one of the state’s many national parks would be a must. After recharging in nature, we’d dive into the city’s energy, enjoying delicious food and experiencing the vibrant nightlife with live jazz or R&B performances. To conclude our trip, we’d explore the charm of nearby wine regions.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m incredibly grateful for the supportive community I’ve cultivated throughout my design journey. My professors, classmates, and mentors at ArtCenter College of Design played a pivotal role in shaping my creative perspective. The collaborative environment fostered a sense of camaraderie and intellectual growth, allowing me to explore new ideas and push creative boundaries. Their encouragement and guidance have been instrumental in my development as a designer.

Website: https://fei.works

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsokayfei/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fei-mai/