Meet Freya Wu | Game Arstist/Project Management

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

Hi Freya, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Choosing a path and industry that I love makes me incredibly happy. As an art student, I was once unsure if I was making the right career choices. I started focusing on art in high school, pursued Animation and VFX in college, and then went for a master’s in Game Development. Despite the doubts and the perception in my country that only those with poor grades choose such fields, I remained steadfast in my decision. I believe that life is about spending your time on what truly interests you, and by doing so, I find great joy and fulfillment.

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’m excited to share more about my career journey. As someone who has always studied art and worked as a 3D Game Character Artist, many might wonder how I ended up as a Project Manager for one of the hottest games at NetEase.

Many people ask if I feel it’s a waste to switch from years of studying art to a management role in the gaming industry. I actually disagree. I believe my choice to become a Game Art PM is the right one. Managing art in the gaming industry is challenging; it requires understanding all art processes, project needs, and artist schedules. Few PMs have this knowledge, so many game companies internally train their art PMs. However, most artists prefer innovation and art research over management.

Personally, I have a natural aptitude for PM roles, with an ENFP personality type that excels in communication and multitasking. My understanding of art processes and strong aesthetic sense allows me to quickly adapt to this role, while my communication, organization, and management skills help me thrive.

Regarding my art, I now have more time for personal projects and don’t get burnt out from daily company tasks. I can enjoy creating my art more freely.

In today’s competitive job market, I highly recommend artists consider roles that suit their skills and offer good growth opportunities. You might find a job that fits you better while still maintaining your passion for art.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting, we’d have a relaxed time. The best way to host them would be to stay at my place, where I’d cook various meals for them. With 17 years of cooking experience as a semi-professional Chinese chef, I can make almost any dish they desire. We’d go grocery shopping, play board games, cook, eat, and enjoy good sleep. Visiting museums or famous sights is an option, but I believe the best time is spent enjoying good food, drinks, and conversations.

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 dedicate my shoutout to my mother. She is an incredibly strong and inspiring woman. During tough times, she single-handedly supported our family. When everyone else opposed, she resolutely sent me abroad to study. Her unwavering support and hard work allowed me to pursue my dreams and choose my own path. She has been a tremendous help in both my studies and my life, and I am deeply grateful for everything she has done for me.

Website: https://www.freyawu.art/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freyayixuanwu/