Meet Vela Wang | Graphic Designer

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

Hi Vela, Let’s talk about principles and values – what matters to you most?
At the heart of my artistry and graphic design craftmanship is kindness, a principle that shapes my creative journey. I’ve always felt a deep need to correct what seemed unpleasant in design, a passion that took root in my early life in China and flourished at Loyola Marymount University, to me, transcends mere art and technology—it’s a vessel of empathy, of connecting with and understanding others. Each project isn’t just an addition to my portfolio, but a deeply personal endeavor for my clients, and that’s why I approach each with equal care and love. In a nutshell, my design philosophy is all about infusing the world with a subtle yet powerful kindness.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am deeply passionate about graphic design and believe in the power it holds to communicate stories and evoke emotions. The uniqueness in my art lies in its ability to weave together the language of empathy, culture, and aesthetics into a unified, powerful narrative. I bring the spirit of the project, whether it’s a film or a musical tour, to life, creating a visual experience that not only complements but enhances the project.

One of my proudest achievements includes designing the poster for “The Foreigner’s New Adobe,” a project that earned ‘Best Short’ at the Chinese American Film Festival (C.A.F.F.). My poster for “The Thirty Three Stories” contributed to its recognition as a finalist at the WorldFest-Huston International Film Festival. I was also privileged to design a poster for the Netflix sponsored film ‘Pedacito De Carne,’ presented at the ‘Narrative Short Film Incubator for Women of Color’ and screened by the National Association of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP) at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) 2023.

Adding to my diverse portfolio, I designed promotional tour assets for CloZee’s Microworlds tour, which spanned more than 50 shows globally and received significant media attention. My individual work also found its way into the public eye through my solo exhibition, ‘Show-Life Together’, focusing on my animal artworks, and participation in the 2022 Visual Art Exhibition of Asian Artists in America.

My journey to where I am today was not easy. Every project came with its unique set of challenges, but I learned to see these as opportunities for growth. Through these experiences, I’ve learned the value of patience, perseverance, and a deeper understanding of visual language. I realized that empathy is as crucial in design as artistic skills, and good communication is vital for the successful completion of projects.

My work is a testament to my belief that graphic design is more than just visual aesthetics—it’s a medium to tell stories, convey emotions, and create meaningful connections. I want the world to know that my brand is rooted in this philosophy. Each design I create is infused with empathy, care, and a deep understanding of the project’s spirit, contributing to its overall success.

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 for a week, we’d embark on a journey through LA’s most inspiring and diverse locales, each with a distinctive charm and vibrancy.

We’d kick off the week at Soho House, my personal sanctuary and a rich hub of creativity. This place has played a pivotal role in my artistic journey, providing an environment that’s buzzing with fresh ideas and perspectives. It’s not just a place to relax and enjoy, but a space that fosters creativity, and I’d want my friend to experience that.

The next stop would be Abbot Kinney in Venice. Nestled by the ocean, this neighborhood offers a laid-back yet invigorating vibe. We’d savor a variety of foods and drinks, each spot offering a unique culinary experience. From casual food trucks to refined bistros, Abbot Kinney has it all. We’d also visit the area’s charming boutiques, which are not only a source of creative inspiration but a place where we can enjoy the simple pleasure of browsing unique finds together.

In the latter part of the week, we’d head to Pasadena. This town is a hidden gem, exuding an ambiance that’s both relaxed and charismatic. Unlike the bustling streets of downtown LA, Pasadena is a quieter, more laid-back area, allowing us to appreciate the unique blend of historical architecture and contemporary culture. We’d explore the vibrant arts scene, visit the landmark Colorado Street Bridge, and try out the local eateries and cafes.

So, from the stimulating creative atmosphere of Soho House to the beachside serenity and eclectic boutiques of Abbot Kinney, and finally to the distinctive charm of Pasadena, this week-long trip encapsulates the best of LA. In my eyes, these places represent the city’s unique blend of culture, creativity, and camaraderie. It’s this combination that makes LA not just an exciting place to visit, but a place that inspires and stays with you long after you’ve left.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d love to give a shoutout to the Soho House Fellowship Program. The program’s invaluable support has been instrumental in my creative journey, helping me refine my skills, fostering unique connections, and providing opportunities for incredible collaborations. A significant highlight was my interaction with the producer of the Netflix sponsored film ‘Pedacito de Carne’. This connection led to an amazing project where I designed a series of posters for the film. Soho House not only nourished my creative spirit but also helped in transforming my ideas into tangible art. I am deeply grateful for the connections and experiences I’ve gained through this program. So, a big thank you to Soho House Fellowship Program – they truly deserve recognition for the profound impact they’ve had on my professional journey and many other creatives out there.

Website: https://velayilindesign.cargo.site/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/vela.yilin.design

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vela-wang-361655183/