Meet Nao Fesseha | Designer

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

Hi Nao, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued a creative career because I’ve always been drawn to storytelling, design, and the way spaces shape experiences. I studied Curatorial Studies and Interior Design in undergrad, which gave me a strong foundation in art history, exhibition design, and spatial aesthetics. That education deepened my understanding of how visual culture and the built environment influence human connection, identity, and memory.

My journey led me to Saint Yared, a project that blends Ethiopian heritage with early animation aesthetics, using design as a tool for cultural preservation and storytelling. Through that work, I realized my passion extended beyond curatorial and artistic spaces—I became deeply invested in architecture and sustainable design, understanding that built environments have just as much narrative power as art.

Right now, I’m focusing on building a career in architecture, while continuing to develop Saint Yared as an ongoing creative endeavor. To me, creativity isn’t just about making art—it’s about problem-solving, shaping culture, and leaving a lasting impact. Whether through visual storytelling, curatorial work, or architecture, my goal has always been to design experiences that matter.

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.
My career has always been rooted in design and storytelling. I studied Curatorial Studies and Interior Design in undergrad, and my work spans creative direction, visual storytelling, and spatial design. I founded ‘Saint Yared’ as a project that blends Ethiopian cultural narratives with contemporary design, which allowed me to explore the intersection of design, space, and visual storytelling.

Currently, I work as a professional Art Handler and Install at Crate 88, gaining hands-on experience with materials, fabrication, and exhibition installation. My growing interest in the built environment, sustainable design, and architecture has led me to take steps toward pursuing an advanced degree in architecture, where I aim to bridge design, storytelling, and socially responsible urban development.

As I move forward, my focus is on integrating design theory, spatial practice, and cultural narratives into architectural solutions that are innovative, human-centered, and future-facing

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 was visiting LA for a week, I’d want them to experience a mix of design, culture, and natural beauty—a real taste of what makes this city special. LA is often thought of as just Hollywood, but it’s also home to some of the best architecture, art, and global cuisine in the world.

Maru Coffee in the Arts District.
Hollyhock House – Frank Lloyd Wright’s first LA project, blending indoor/outdoor spaces.
Hauser & Wirth Gallery because there’s a lot to cover in one area plus i LOVE the art book selection
Little Ethiopia of course, its hard to choose one restaurant they all have different specialties – honorable mention, Yordanos (which is actually not on Fairfax – Addis Daniel put me on to that 😉 )
Griffith Park for a nice hike and lots of greenery and space to roam around – even if its a bit cliché

LA is a city that people often misunderstand—it’s more than just Hollywood. It’s a place where art, design, and diverse cultures come together, and it constantly inspires me as a designer. There’s always something new to discover here.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to dedicate my shoutout to a few people who have played a meaningful role in my journey. First, my friend Raven Dakota—she’s been an incredible friend since our college days in Philadelphia and continues to inspire me as a talented designer in Los Angeles. I also want to recognize Addis Daniel who is the creative genius behind (@NuAfricaworld) and (@MotherlandSounds) alongside others, a platform highlighting DJs and artist pushing the boundaries of black sound. Their dedication to fostering creative spaces has had a significant impact. Lastly, I’d like to acknowledge Umbar Kassa, who runs her own production company (@ForbiddenFruitProduction) based in the Bay + LA—her drive and vision have been truly inspiring. Community and collaboration are everything in creative work, and I’m grateful to have had these individuals in my corner.

Instagram: @saint.yared

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

Image Credits
Soho House for the first image, the rest are Yared Talks, LLC