We were lucky to catch up with Yuchen Lu recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Yuchen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on was a recent commission for Hearts & Science, part of the Omnicom Group, in celebration of AAPI Heritage Month in New York City. I was invited to create an original artwork to honor the occasion, and the project offered a rare opportunity to explore cultural through visual storytelling, in a way that also speaks universally.

The piece features a crane, a symbol of longevity, wisdom, and peace in Chinese culture, surrounded by blooming peonies and chrysanthemums, which represent resilience, prosperity, and elegance. I chose these elements not only for their symbolism, but for the joy I found in drawing their flowing, organic shapes. Visually, the curves and details brought a sense of harmony and softness that reflected the spirit of growth and celebration I wanted to convey.

It’s rare to merge commercial collaboration with personal storytelling so seamlessly. The piece was shared across various social platforms, which made the experience feel even more connected to a broader community. As an artist, the greatest satisfaction comes from seeing my work appreciated and understood. Knowing the work resonated beyond just a single setting and could speak to many different people made the project especially meaningful to me. The client was also incredibly supportive, which made the collaboration all the more rewarding.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

Growing up my family always has vases in our home. My grandparents are artisans from a town famous for porcelain, they fled the Cultural Revolution seeking better opportunities, eventually settling in Beijing where I was born. My father, recognizing my artistic talent, he shared stories behind the vases in our home, he hoped I would continue our family’s creative legacy. Yet, as a Gen Z artist, I was drawn to contemporary art and media, craving new forms of expression. Moving to New York to study at SVA was a transformative yet challenging experience. I struggled with cultural dissonance, loneliness, and the weight of starting over. Cultural dissonance and financial struggles tested my resilience but also deepened my voice. My work now merges the traditions of my heritage with a modern lens, exploring themes of identity and reinvention.

I draw inspiration from nature, mythology, and dreams—sources that feel both timeless and personal. My work explores the harmony between tradition and modern life, blending elements of traditional Asian craftsmanship with contemporary forms and themes. In my work I like to use harmonious colors palette, creating a sense of quiet beauty and reflection. I hope my work resonate with those navigating their own sense of belonging.

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

When I’m creating, I constantly seek inspiration from other artists across disciplines—music, painting, architecture, photography. I find it incredibly moving how different art forms can speak to each other across time and space. Art to me is a language that creates bridges between people. I hope my work can carry that same energy. Whenever I get comments, message, likes, its not about the number but the sense of connection is one of the most rewarding part to me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://yuchenartt.cargo.site
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yuchenartt/