Meet Eleanor Yang | Graphic Designer

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

Hi Eleanor, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
To me, risk is synonymous with opportunity. I’ve always been drawn to a life that isn’t entirely predictable or safe. Risk represents not just a chance for a better life, but also a means to refine my skills and abilities. Rather than viewing risk as a reckless gamble with potential loss, I see it as the unwavering pursuit of my passions in the face of uncertainty.

Before my foray into graphic design, my creative inclinations were rooted purely in the realm of fine art. I had spent years honing my artistic talents, working solely with physical media to create my pieces. However, when I received the opportunity to attend Artcenter College of Design Fine Art, I had an epiphany, I wanted to switch my major to graphic design, even though I had zero experience with design software at the time.

My mother, a steadfast supporter of all my endeavors, placed her unwavering trust in me and offered wholehearted encouragement. In the three months leading up to my freshman year, I embarked on a transformative journey. It was a daring leap of faith. I needed to complete a portfolio and reapply, with just two short months to craft at least three pieces required for the application. Failing to do so would jeopardize my plans to enter the university on schedule.

Nevertheless, my mother had instilled self confidence in me from a young age, and I’ve always embraced challenges with unwavering dedication. I believed wholeheartedly that I could not only finish my portfolio but excel at it. Under the pressure of time constraints and with a determination fueled by unwavering self belief, I not only completed the required four high quality pieces but also secured admission to Artcenter College of Design’s Graphic Design program. Remarkably, I even received more scholarships than I did when applying for fine art.

Throughout my life, I’ve encountered numerous challenges and risks. However, I’ve remained steadfast in my conviction that it’s not fear or hesitation that turns these endeavors into reality; rather, it’s the unwavering commitment to honesty and perseverance that transforms every adventure into a remarkable journey.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My professional path has been a challenging yet immensely rewarding one. I embarked on my artistic journey at a tender age, balancing my studies with rigorous art training. This early experience instilled in me an unwavering work ethic and resilience that continues to propel me to give my absolute best, no matter the circumstances.

Upon entering ArtCenter College of Design, I confronted rigorous coursework and countless late nights, but these challenges have been the most fulfilling of my life. I’ve honed my skills in UI/UX and Motion Graphics, uncovering a medium through which I can convey my innermost self and create meaningful change in the world. My relentless commitment to refining my craft day and night has been instrumental in my journey.

Through my work, I aim to offer a moment of respite, a glimpse of celestial bliss, or a day of joy to those who engage with it. My artistic journey predominantly takes the form of abstract compositions, vibrant with colors and intricate forms, with the intent to stir emotions and etch unforgettable memories into the viewer’s consciousness.

As a graphic designer, I specialize in motion design and UI&UX design, and my work is a reflection of my ability to think beyond the norm. I enjoy breaking down established rules, rearranging them in my unique way, and constructing a world that blurs the line between reality and fantasy. My creativity and imagination serve as a bridge between the tangible and the surreal, allowing me to create a space devoid of boundaries and limitations.

My path has been marked by a strong sense of purpose, rigorous planning, and a commitment to self improvement. I continually seek to expand my knowledge and skillset, welcoming both self motivation and advice from others. Ultimately, I want the world to know that my art is a journey of self expression, a world of boundless imagination, and a source of solace and inspiration for all who encounter it.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
In the vast landscape of Los Angeles, the potential for an extraordinary week with a cherished friend knows no bounds. To tantalize our taste buds, we’d embark on a culinary adventure starting with what I consider the ultimate LA burger experience, savoring juicy delights at Carl’s Jr. We’d then head to my go to oasis, Jin Tea in Pasadena, where we’d sip on the irresistible brown sugar and bean curd milk tea. To satisfy our sweet cravings, we’d indulge in the exquisite crème brûlée crepes with luscious custard at Millet Crepe. Exploring the culinary diversity, we’d dive into the delectable Chinese flavors at Chengdu Taste and Lunasia Dim Sum House. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we’d ascend to the iconic Griffith Observatory, a place that has always intrigued me with its mountain top allure and cinematic charm, reminiscent of the scenes from ‘La La Land.’ And if the stars aligned with the weather, we’d bask in the serene beauty of the Huntington Library, a tranquil sanctuary to savor the essence of Los Angeles’ nature and unwind in its picturesque surroundings.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Many have remarked that my life has been charmed, as if I’ve been showered with an abundance of good fortune. Yet, what may appear as sheer ‘luck’ is inextricably intertwined with the unwavering support of my mother, a support that’s never demanded an explanation. From the earliest days of my childhood, she has sung my praises, possessed an uncanny foresight in recognizing my talents, and demonstrated an extraordinary knack for pinpointing the paths I should tread. In my recollection, she’s never resorted to teaching or chastising me; rather, we’ve always engaged in a discourse characterized by the utmost equality.

It’s almost as though she extended her hand, gently releasing me to forge my own unique path from the moment I was but a child. Early on, my mother astutely discerned that my undivided attention and earnest energy were reserved exclusively for art. Consequently, she dedicated herself to nurturing my aesthetic sensibilities and laying a solid foundation in the realm of painting. Simultaneously, she meticulously built a robust material and spiritual foundation to fortify my future. She encouraged me to embark on an artistic education abroad, free from any expectations regarding the outcomes or my performance, simply because she possessed unwavering faith in my capabilities.

I’m profoundly grateful to have such a wise, resilient, magnanimous, and gentle presence in my life.

Website: https://www.eleanoryang.net/

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/eleanor-yang-692775227

Other: Behance: https://www.behance.net/shuxuanyang

Image Credits
FORGOTTEN WHISPERS: Collaborator: Mix Sun