We recently connected with Jocelyn (Ziying) Zhao and have shared our conversation below.

Jocelyn (Ziying), appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

Growing up, I spent over ten years learning painting, which helped shape my artistic aesthetics, craftsmanship, and spatial imagination. However, I yearned for something beyond traditional methods of expressing creativity. After taking the Mediatecture and Generative Typography course at ArtCenter, I discovered a direction within graphic design that perfectly intertwines technology and visual communication, enabling me to create fresh and unexpected things of expression.

My first project using this approach was a museum identity refresh inspired by the revolutionary Jacquard loom. I connected traditional weaving techniques with computer code, creating an interactive logo generator tool and a large-scale interactive installation. This installation featured a sound-reactive typewriter based on a custom typeface I designed for the museum, using platforms like Processing to connect with Arduino sensors. This process required extensive coding skills, strong conceptual thinking, and meticulous execution, ultimately becoming the main focus of my work.

Reflecting on my journey, I realize that if I had the opportunity to start over, I would have focused on learning creative coding and interactive media earlier to accelerate my learning process. The main obstacles I encountered were the steep learning curve of new technologies and the challenge of seamlessly integrating them with traditional artistic methods. Despite these challenges, the learning process was incredibly rewarding and significantly enhanced my skills and understanding.

Jocelyn (Ziying), 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?

Of course! My name is Jocelyn Ziying Zhao, a graphic designer based in New York, specializing in branding and transmedia storytelling. I have a strong interest in corporate technologies that intersect with visual communication, such as computer generative design and creative coding. My work has been widely recognized with multiple awards from the Type Directors Club, Communication Arts, Core77, Graphis, Pentawards, Young Ones, The Dieline, and GDUSA.

My journey began with over ten years of painting, which developed my sensitivity to colors, textures, and compositions. After two years of studying visual communication design at a university in China, I discovered my passion for graphic design—a field that merges artistic skills with digital technology. This realization led me to ArtCenter College of Design, where I honed my expertise in both physical form-making and digital generative design across various media types. This experience shaped my design philosophy, emphasizing the seamless integration of the tangible and digital realms.

I strive for my work to be versatile and thoughtful, extending beyond visual aesthetics. I commit fully to the creative process, bringing dedication, sophistication, and thoughtful speculation to every project. My services encompass both print and digital media, including generative design, 3D rendering, spatial installations, user experiences, and more.

I’m excited to announce that I will be joining Google Creative Lab as a designer next month. This opportunity will allow me to work with advanced technology and collaborate with technologists, filmmakers, and designers on innovative projects, continuing my creative journey.

What sets my work apart is my ability to blend traditional artistic techniques with innovative technology. This approach allows me to solve complex visual communication problems for clients, ensuring their brands stand out aesthetically and connect meaningfully with their audiences.

For potential clients and followers, I want to highlight that my work is characterized by versatility, thoughtfulness, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. My goal is to create designs that are visually striking, meaningful, and functional. Whether through branding, computer generative design, or spatial experience design, I aim to make a lasting impact on the visual communication landscape.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

Through my work, I desire to evoke feelings and experiences, to leave a lasting imprint on the senses and emotions of those who encounter it. My goal is to bring thoughtful concepts with impactful designs through creative strategies, making the “meaningless” meaningful.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

One of the most rewarding aspects of being a designer is the opportunity to constantly learn from other industries like technology, fashion, film, and even finance. As I broaden my skills, my understanding of the world expands as well, enriching both my work and personal growth.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://jocelynzhao.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocelynzdesign/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocelyn-zhao-76838216b/