Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Xian-hao (harry) Liao. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Xian-Hao (Harry), thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you take us back in time to the first dollar you earned as a creative – how did it happen? What’s the story?

The first dollar I earned from my creative work was from designing a music cover, and it was a moment I’ll never forget. It wasn’t just about getting paid—it was about seeing my work come to life in the real world. The project was for DJCK, a friend of mine who has produced over 50 singles for well-known Taiwanese singers. After several rounds of discussions and refinements, we landed on a final design that truly captured the essence of his music.

The most exciting part was seeing the cover officially posted on his YouTube channel, knowing that thousands of people would see my work alongside his music. And then, when the payment finally hit my bank account, it felt surreal—It was a validation of my hard work and a reminder that creativity has real value, motivating me to keep going in my career.

Xian-Hao (Harry), 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?

My name is Xian-Hao Liao, but many know me as Harry Liao. I’m a multimedia designer with years of experience spanning visual design, web development, UX research, interactive art, promotional material design, and video production.

As a visual designer, my focus is on creating compelling graphics that leave a lasting impact. My journey began with designing music covers for artists, ensuring they had not just a striking visual but a full-spectrum design that truly represented their identity. Through these collaborations, I developed a strong ability to understand and transform creative visions into powerful visuals.

What sets me apart is my patience and strong communication skills—I take the time to deeply understand my client’s needs and bring their ideas to life with precision and creativity. Having worked with music brands globally, I recognize that the demand for high-quality visual design is only growing.

I invite you to explore my website to see the range of services I offer and how I can help bring your vision to life through impactful design.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

One resource I wish I had valued more in my creative journey is the wealth of opportunities in school. Students have the time and freedom to experiment without financial pressure, and the public is more open to their creative exploration.

I encourage students to make the most of this—connect with design leads online, attend exhibitions, and seek mentorship. Another overlooked opportunity is collaborating with local businesses. Many need design help but lack the budget for professionals. Offering your skills not only builds real-world experience but also expands your portfolio and network. School isn’t just for learning—it’s a launchpad for your creative career.

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

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being a creative is seeing my work make an impact—whether it’s helping a brand establish its identity, bringing a musician’s vision to life, or creating visuals that resonate with an audience. The ability to turn ideas into something tangible and meaningful is incredibly fulfilling. I also love the constant evolution of creativity—learning new techniques, experimenting with different mediums, and collaborating with people from diverse backgrounds. Every project is a new challenge and an opportunity to grow, and that endless journey of discovery keeps me inspired.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://liaoxianhao.design/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xianhaoliao.design/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xianhaoliao.design
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/xian-hao-liao/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyDt79nwJDRGVzgFgz4Lc1A

Image Credits

DJCK, Future House Music, Brotherhood Casual Music, BJ’s Wholesale Club, MassArt