Meet Heejai Park | Graphic designer & Creative Technologist

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

Hi Heejai, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born and raised in South Korea, where I spent several years studying fine arts and drawing before moving to the U.S. to study graphic design at ArtCenter College of Design in Los Angeles. My background in fine arts taught me to observe the world in detail and develop a strong foundation in aesthetics, which deeply influences my design approach today.

Growing up in South Korea, I was surrounded by a culture that values creativity and discipline, which shaped my work ethic and appreciation for thoughtful, meaningful design. This upbringing inspired me to pursue graphic design as a way to merge my love for fine arts with innovative, problem-solving thinking.

Moving to the U.S. broadened my perspective, exposing me to diverse design practices and cutting-edge technologies. Most recently, I’ve become passionate about generative design, as it allows me to combine my artistic sensibilities with dynamic, tech-driven creativity.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My work is rooted in simplicity as a core design principle, but I also love exploring vibrant, creative directions when the project calls for it. Sometimes my designs lean toward clean and minimal aesthetics; other times, they take on a bold, futuristic edge. What sets me apart is my ability to adapt and find the perfect balance between these approaches, creating designs that are not only visually striking but also meaningful and purposeful.

Getting to where I am today wasn’t always easy. Moving from fine arts to graphic design and navigating different cultures while studying abroad challenged me to push beyond my comfort zone. But those challenges taught me resilience and the importance of staying curious and open to new ideas.

One key lesson I’ve learned is that every design tells a story, and the best designs are the ones that resonate emotionally while solving a problem. I want my work to reflect a blend of thoughtful simplicity and creative exploration, showing that design can be both functional and inspiring.

Through my journey, I hope to share my story of persistence and creativity while continuing to innovate and connect with others through design

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.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d take them to the Arts District for a perfect day. We’d start with matcha lattes at Maru Coffee, then enjoy a comforting bowl of yuzu shio ramen at Afuri Ramen for lunch. Afterward, we’d explore exhibitions at Hauser & Wirth, immersing ourselves in inspiring art. To wrap up, we’d visit the adjacent bookstore to browse through beautifully curated art and design books—always a source of inspiration and great conversation.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to all the incredible people I’ve met at ArtCenter, especially my creatively inspiring peers. Their passion, ideas, and unique perspectives constantly push me to grow as a designer and think beyond my limits. Collaborating and sharing ideas with them has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey, and I’m so grateful for the inspiration they bring to my life every day.

Website: https://heejaipark.info

Instagram: @heejaipark

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heejai-park-1a50a3236/

Image Credits
Heejaipark