We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Shengjie Wu. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Shengjie below.
Shengjie, appreciate you joining us today. What do you think it takes to be successful?
Success, to me, comes from a combination of persistence, confidence, communication, and seizing opportunities with full commitment.
I’ve always had two main passions: graphic design and cars. So, when I saw a graphic designer position open at an automotive museum, I knew it was the perfect opportunity. I applied immediately, but after weeks of no response, I realized that waiting wasn’t enough.
Undeterred, I applied again and took it a step further. This time, I decided to reach out to the museum’s design director directly. I believed that introducing myself would leave a stronger impression than an application alone. To my surprise, that approach worked, and I landed an interview!
The interview went well, but again, weeks passed without any updates. This wasn’t an opportunity I was willing to let slip away, so I reached out to the design director again. I expressed my continued interest and appreciation for the interview, which led to a second round. However, my lack of professional experience became a sticking point. The director suggested I start as a freelancer to build that experience.
Instead of being disappointed, I saw this as my chance. I didn’t want to waste a single opportunity. I dove headfirst into the freelance role, treating it as if it were a full-time job. I gave 120% to every project, determined to prove my capability and passion.
Two months later, my persistence paid off. My work spoke for itself, and I convinced the team of my design understanding and capabilities. They offered me a full-time position.
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 am a graphic designer specializing in brand identity, typography, and book design. I am fascinated by using graphics and text to bridge the gap between individuals around the world, providing opportunities for everyone to explore various fields.
Since I was a child, I have had the habit of collecting things. Every piece in my collection tells a story. I collect Hot Wheels because I’m a car enthusiast. I love clothing tags because I’m fascinated by unique label designs. Refrigerator magnets from different regions record my journeys.
My passion for collecting has shaped my aesthetic sensibilities and fueled my creative fire. The act of gathering a diverse array of objects provides me with a rich visual library. Immersing myself in this tangible world of collected artifacts helps me to gain fresh perspectives and a heightened sensitivity to detail. This collector’s mindset allows me to approach each project with a fresh outlook, offering designs that meet the brief and bring a unique perspective and connection that sets the design apart, and now, creating and collecting have become a way of life for me.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
What is truly satisfying to me is the freedom of self-expression – being able to bring my innermost thoughts, visions, and concepts to life. This process is a rewarding journey where I explore new techniques, overcome creative blocks, and grow with each piece of work. Additionally, I get to use my ability to share stories visually and connect with my audience.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
As a visual creator, I would like to recommend the book “The Creative Act: A Way of Being” by Rick Rubin.
Rick Rubin doesn’t just explore creativity as a skill but as a way of life. The book encourages artists to see creativity not as something confined to a specific moment or task, but as an ongoing state of being that influences all aspects of life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.shengjiewu.info/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shengjie_design
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-shengjie-wu
