Meet Yidi Zang | Designer, creator

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

Hi Yidi, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
Since the age of 3, art has been an integral part of my life, a cherished experience that has always made me feel uniquely connected to the world. Although many of my friends deemed me the unconventional kid, I found my bliss in pursuits different from the usual. While neighbourhood children gathered for games, I was drawn to a different kind of joy—arranging desks and chairs into a makeshift studio, where I’d immerse myself in the world of creation.

My inspirations were as diverse as they were abundant, drawn from characters in beloved TV series, the charm of my pets, and the vibrant tapestry of people and activities that coloured my life. Growing up in a household where my mother, entrenched in the publishing industry, brought home an array of books—some artistic, some not—further fueled my passion. Her influence has been an invaluable guiding light in my artistic journey, igniting my creative endeavours in profound ways.

Art isn’t just a hobby for me—it’s my career, my passion, and the cornerstone of my life. There’s a saying that resonates deeply with me: “Turn your hobby into a career and it will make you successful.” This adage feels like it was tailor-made for my journey. Even today, amidst the demands of my career, my shelves are lined with sketchbooks filled with spontaneous creations. These impromptu drawings, woven into spare moments, have wielded a tremendous influence on my professional opportunities and growth trajectory.

Art has been the guiding force shaping the tapestry of my life’s journey. It began as a creative designer in a bustling advertising agency nestled in Beijing, China. From there, my path intertwined with esteemed companies like Microsoft, where I became a featured artist, traveling across diverse cities to contribute to their events. Now, having transitioned to London, I continue to immerse myself in the design industry, feeling the profound influence of art at every turn. Its unwavering presence has been my constant companion, steering and illuminating each step I take.

Art has etched its presence across myriad locations on my life’s map, instilling within me a profound sense of purpose 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.

With over a decade devoted to the craft, I’ve cultivated a rich tapestry of experience as a graphic designer. My journey commenced in Beijing, China, where I flourished as a creative designer within advertising agencies and esteemed media companies. Collaborating with renowned brands, I sculpted an array of compelling artworks, marking significant milestones in my career.

In my ninth year of professional endeavours, I made a pivotal choice—to depart from my role as the Art Group Director of a WPP company. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a deeper understanding of artistic expressions within cultural contexts, I embarked on an enriching educational journey in the UK.

London beckoned, offering the canvas for my pursuit—a postgraduate diploma in design for art direction at the esteemed University of the Arts London. Concurrently, I engaged in remote work for a company, seamlessly blending academic rigour with practical application. This unique juncture afforded me the vantage point to discern and appreciate the nuanced disparities between Beijing and London’s vibrant art and cultural landscapes, further fueling my fascination to explore these realms.

Upon the culmination of my postgraduate studies, I made the transformative leap, relocating to the UK to embark upon a fresh trajectory—a boundless odyssey of artistic exploration and discovery.

Currently, I’ve ventured into new horizons, embracing the role of a senior designer at a distinguished marketing agency in London. Here, my focus lies in the realms of graphic design and illustration, channeling my expertise to craft captivating visual narratives.

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.

London captivates me with its duality—a familiar resonance akin to Beijing’s hustle and bustle interwoven with an enigmatic, laid-back essence. What truly enamors me about this city is its vibrant culture and ethos—a melting pot where individual passions thrive harmoniously, fostering a collective sense of poised tranquility.

The cityscape pulsates with myriad charms—a tapestry woven with art galleries, eclectic bars, and a diverse populace. Every Uber ride becomes a fleeting conversation, a glimpse into the tapestry of London’s fabric. For a delightful brunch experience, Hideaway near Mayfair beckons, boasting black truffles that tantalize my palate. And when it comes to shopping, Selfridges and Harrods stand as quintessential landmarks not to be overlooked, especially during the festive aura that engulfs Regent Street and Covent Garden at Christmas.

Venturing into London’s soul reveals its treasure trove—old markets like Notting Hill and the countless alcoves in Soho that promise serendipitous encounters and newfound camaraderie. Hyde Park, a tranquil haven, holds my heart for leisurely weekend afternoons, teeming with enchanting creatures awaiting discovery.

For enthusiasts of the arts, London unfurls its canvas generously. Monthly exhibitions and weekly surprises beckon, accessible through apps like Art Guide or iMuseum. Iconic institutions like Tate Modern and the National Gallery stand as bastions of artistic marvels, inviting exploration—open year-round, offering their treasures free of charge to those who seek inspiration.

In this city that thrives on cultural diversity and artistic vibrancy, London becomes an ever-evolving gallery—a testament to its magnetic allure and an inviting haven for those who revel in its artistic pulse.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude to Zhixin Wang, my revered mentor and a distinguished art professor at a Chinese university. From a tender age, he embraced me as his student also child, imparting invaluable wisdom and nurturing my artistic soul. Every weekend until I turned 18, I found mys ensconced in his studio, evolving from a novice to a proficient artist under his guidance. As time wove its tapestry, I transitioned from a learner to an assistant, aiding him in teaching fellow aspiring artists. Zhixin Wang’s tutelage not only provided ample opportunities to hone my craft but also instilled an unshakable confidence in my artistic abilities—a foundation that remains unwavering to this day. Although I’m currently far from China, I deeply regret the prolonged absence in contacting Mr. Wang. Nevertheless, the gratitude I hold for him remains steadfast in my heart, and I am committed to reconnecting and expressing my heartfelt appreciation as best as I can.

Website: https://www.ediearts.net/

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

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

Image Credits
All rights reserved – Yidi Zang