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

Wenyao, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on has been Govball 2023, where I served as the lead designer responsible for developing its visual identity. The vision behind the project was to pay homage to New York City, a place deeply intertwined with the festival’s soul. I created a fluid gradient as the centerpiece of the design, drawing inspiration from the vibrant spray paint graffiti that colors the streets of the city. The gradient not only captured the beauty of summer but also encapsulated the energetic, eclectic spirit of the festival itself.

What made this project particularly meaningful was its sheer scale and the influence it carried. Govball is one of New York’s most iconic music festivals, and knowing that my design resonated with hundreds of thousands of festival-goers was an incredibly rewarding experience. It was a rare opportunity to blend my personal connection to the city with a project that had such a broad and influential reach. The design became more than just a visual—it became a symbol of the festival’s essence and the city’s culture.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I got into graphic design much like how many others do—by experimenting with an old computer and some photo editing software. I remember creating my first graphic banner by following a tutorial I found on a web forum, using nothing more than MS Paint. From there, I kept making more images, sometimes to post online or just for fun. By high school, I had started using Photoshop to design layouts for student magazines and the yearbook. Back then, though, I never thought of it as a potential career path.

I originally went to college for Art History, imagining myself studying and curating art. But after the first year, I realized I wanted to do more than just observe and analyze art; I wanted to create it. That’s when I shifted my focus to graphic design, a decision that allowed me to blend my artistic passion with a more hands-on approach.

Since then, I’ve been fortunate enough to work with clients like Apple, Meta, Airbnb, and Govball. Each project has presented a new challenge and a fresh opportunity to push myself creatively. I’m proud of the fact that my work has reached such broad audiences, influencing and connecting with hundreds of thousands of people. My designs aim to translate a brand’s core values into striking, effective visuals that resonate with their audience.

What sets me apart is my ability to dive deep into the essence of a brand and pull out its most vital elements, transforming them into visually compelling stories. I’m always striving to push the boundaries of creativity and design while staying true to a brand’s voice. At the end of the day, it’s fulfilling to see my work make an impact, and I hope to continue inspiring and influencing through every project I take on.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist or creative for me is the ability to bring ideas and emotions to life visually, and then seeing how those creations resonate with people. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about taking a brand’s core values, or even a simple concept, and transforming it into a powerful, tangible experience that others can engage with and be inspired by.

I also find great reward in the process of constant evolution—pushing boundaries, learning new techniques, and growing with each project. Every design challenge presents an opportunity to stretch creatively, and that growth is something I deeply value. But ultimately, the most rewarding part is when my work connects with audiences in a meaningful way—whether it’s a campaign seen by millions or an identity that helps define a festival, like with Govball 2023. It’s knowing that the visuals I’ve created are not only aesthetically striking but also communicate a message or emotion that resonates and leaves a lasting impact.

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

Building communities where artists can collaborate and share resources is essential. Platforms that facilitate networking and the exchange of ideas between artists, designers, and other creatives can lead to new opportunities and innovations. These spaces, whether physical or digital, encourage cross-disciplinary partnerships that push creative boundaries.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://alex-mi.com
• Instagram: hazu_am