Meet Lexi Xu | Multimedia Designer & Content Creator

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

Hi Lexi, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
It’s definitely the functionality of graphic design.

I often get asked, “What’s the point of graphic design?” from non-creatives. They understand that architectural design creates buildings to live in and fashion design produces clothes to wear, but they aren’t sure what graphic design accomplishes. It might seem that we can live well without it.

While it may not have a clear, tangible functionality like architecture or fashion, graphic design affects people in more subtle and pervasive ways. At its most superficial, graphic design is beautiful and makes people happy. But beyond that, it conveys messages and changes people’s ideas and behaviors, often without them even noticing.

Take branding, for example. Graphic design sets the tone for a brand, creating specific feelings and associations when people see it. Advertisements on posters, flyers, and social media are designed to attract your interest in products. In publication design, even small changes in typography can evoke different feelings and impressions.

Graphic design is everywhere—on the street, in your home, on your water bottle, and on this webpage. It shapes our visual environment and influences our perceptions and decisions every day. All it takes is a keen eye to recognize its presence and impact.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been sensitive to graphic and visual images since I was young, which sparked my strong interest in drawing and designing. This childhood interest led me to pursue a career in graphic design. During my studies, I realized how much I love expressing and communicating with people through design. The power of design to not only convey emotion but also change people’s ideas amazed me and solidified my determination to continue in this field.

With a background in both communications design and digital art, I see myself as a multimedia and multidisciplinary creative. I have a strong foundation in traditional graphic design, including expertise in publication design, branding, and print materials. Additionally, I am proficient in digital design, particularly in motion graphics, film, animation, and 3D modeling. My work spans across various mediums, allowing me to approach projects with a broad and imaginative perspective.

What sets me apart is my focus on the ideas I’m conveying through art rather than just the superficial aesthetic style. I believe this helps me connect with the audience on a deeper level. I am most proud of my imagination and unique perspective. I always think outside the box and surprise clients with interesting ideas.

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?
One of my favorite spots in NYC is Chelsea area, where you can immerse in the art atmosphere, enjoy delicious food, and take in great views along the river. I typically start with exploring exhibitions at the Whitney Museum and the surrounding galleries. Printed Matter is also a must-go for artists, especially graphic designers. After soaking in the art, I like to grab a coffee and some food at Chelsea Market and then take a relaxing walk along the river. Little Island offers a great viewpoint, and strolling along the High Line or the river during sunset is incredibly serene. I often end the day with a nice meal in the area.

Beyond Chelsea, I love checking out vintage stores in the Lower East Side and Williamsburg, savoring great food in Chinatown, and soaking up the Brooklyn vibe in Dumbo. NYC is the perfect place to experience city life and diverse cultures.

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 give a huge shoutout to Dream Labor Press. Being a member of this press has opened up numerous opportunities to share my work with the public. Through our participation in book fairs, I’ve had the chance to know and meet with other great artists. It’s been incredibly fun and meaningful to engage with people who resonate with my works. I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with fellow members; we inspire each other and share our perspectives to create better designs.

Website: https://lexixu.cargo.site/

Instagram: https://lexixu.design

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zixuan-lexi-xu-175b21279/