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

Alright, Hongcen thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is a handwritten font design based on my mother’s handwriting. As I’ve grown older, I’ve realized how much influence my family, especially my mother, has had on my work and approach to design, even though at first I didn’t recognize it. By all conventional standards, she is a homemaker with little formal education in design, and her aesthetic sense is not particularly strong compared to others. Yet, her approach to tasks and her attitude towards life have undeniably shaped the way I approach design and problem-solving.

To express this realization, I deliberately created a design project entirely inspired by her. The project includes basic Latin uppercase and lowercase letters, as well as commonly used Arabic numerals, all derived from her handwritten notes. I carefully selected the most representative samples of her handwriting, transferred them onto my computer, and recreated the font using Glyphs. I’ve used this font in my daily work, especially in situations where I need a handwritten style, and also in contexts that evoke my mother’s unique character. To further integrate this into my life, I created a small calendar using the font, allowing me to keep her influence close.

This project is meaningful to me because it captures not just a design process, but a deeper reflection of how family shapes us in ways we don’t always notice.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I’m a graphic designer based in Shanghai. I’ve been working in the design field since 2018, specializing in brand design, packaging, typography, illustration, and other forms of visual communication. My approach to design is centered around thoughtful exploration and experimentation. I aim to create visuals that don’t just look good but also communicate the message clearly and meaningfully.

My passion for design started early on—I’ve always been fascinated by how visuals can tell stories and evoke emotions. I studied graphic design and, after gaining some work experience in various aspects of design, I decided to specialize in branding and visual identity. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with various clients, refining my craft and expanding my skill set.

I offer a variety of design services, but my main focus is on creating cohesive and distinctive brand identities that speak to the target audience. This includes logo design, packaging design, visual storytelling, and typography. I work closely with clients to understand their needs, market positioning, and goals, ensuring that the final design solution truly represents their brand while solving the communication challenges they face.

What sets me apart is my commitment to solving visual communication problems through innovative design. Whether it’s helping a new brand establish a clear and memorable identity, or revamping an outdated design to better connect with its audience, my work is driven by a desire to create something that resonates. I believe in approaching every project as an opportunity for creative problem-solving.

I think my ability to blend experimentation with purpose sets me apart. I’m not afraid to try new techniques and styles, but at the same time, I ensure that my designs are always aligned with the client’s needs and goals. This balance of creativity and strategic thinking has helped me produce work that’s not only aesthetically appealing but also effective in achieving its purpose.

I’m most proud of the relationships I’ve built with my clients and the projects where I’ve seen my designs have a real impact.

To potential clients, I want them to know that I’m not just a designer—I’m a visual communicator who values the process of collaboration. I take the time to understand the essence of each brand and the unique story they want to tell. My work is not just about making things look beautiful; it’s about making them work. If you’re looking for a partner who cares deeply about the craft and the impact it can have on your business, I’d love to connect.

What can society do to ensure an environment that’s helpful to artists and creatives?

In my view, for society as a whole, it is essential to enhance respect for artists and creatives, as well as for the content of their work. This means increasing awareness of creative culture, which requires significant time and educational investment, but its importance is immense.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative is when the message you want to convey is understood and embraced by others, and it has a certain impact or influence.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://chenhongcen.cn
• Instagram: hongcenchen
• Other: wechat:19823830925

Image Credits

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