Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Yi Zhu. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Yi , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

Whenever someone brings up meaningful projects, I immediately think of “Voxelated Vignettes” at Gong Gallery. It’s all about diving deep into life’s intricacies using pixelated art. Two pieces really stand out: the ‘dandelion’, capturing nature’s fleeting beauty, and the interactive ‘vending machine’ where visitors peel away stickers to reveal a unique narrative.

The process of creating these pieces was a blend of challenges and revelations. It wasn’t just art for art’s sake; it was about understanding our digital age and the human experience within it. And the response? Overwhelming. We even extended the exhibition because of the buzz it created. For me, this wasn’t just a show, it was an engaging dialogue with our tech-centric society.

Yi , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I’ve been diving deep into the design world for over a decade, dabbling in everything from graphic to interior, and some film stuff. My love for interior design initially drove me to Miami University, and eventually, I mastered the graphic design at ArtCenter.

Splitting my time between LA and Changzhou, I’ve teamed up with big names and fresh faces alike. Beyond the typical design process, I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection of culture and creativity. My work is a tapestry of these experiences, creating a dialogue between the modern and the traditional, the bold and the understated.

But here’s the real deal: collaboration is key. Engaging with clients, understanding their vision, and then weaving it into a design narrative is what makes the journey worthwhile. And as we move forward, my mission remains the same – to create designs that aren’t just seen, but felt. Whether it’s a brand looking to make its mark or a startup seeking to stand out, I’m all in for the adventure.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

One defining moment in my journey was shifting from my initial love for interior design to the broader realm of graphic design. Getting my BFA in Interior Design at Miami University set me on one path, but the allure of graphic design led me to ArtCenter. Blending these two distinct disciplines was challenging. There were moments of doubt, hurdles in integrating different design philosophies, and even some skeptics along the way. But I stuck with it, believing in my vision. Today, I can confidently say my portfolio, which spans both areas and even touches film production, is a testament to that resilience and hunger to evolve.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, it’s the thrill of weaving emotions and stories into my designs. It’s not just about making something look good; it’s about evoking a feeling, sparking a connection. Drawing inspiration from both LA and Changzhou, my work is a unique blend of the modern and the traditional. Every time someone feels a connection to one of my pieces, it’s a reminder of why I dove into this world of design in the first place.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.yizhu.online
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr._.yi/
• Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/yi-zhu-johnny