We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Yangqi Deng. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Yangqi below.

Yangqi, appreciate you joining us today. What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

Last year, I initiated a project called DM444 during my MFA program. With the support of my cohort and faculty, we transformed our department’s traditional Thursday gatherings into dynamic skill-sharing events.

Building on our department’s movie and game nights, we envisioned weekly gatherings that would both entertain and showcase our diverse talents. We created an open platform where anyone could propose and host activities—from VR exhibitions and coffee readings to finger knitting and cookie-making. This flexible format encouraged experimentation fostered connections, and sparked collaborations. It gave us a platform to explore interests beyond our primary studies.

Through these shared experiences and mutual learning, we strengthened our community and built a more vibrant, supportive department—an outcome that remains most meaningful to me.

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.

Hi there, My name is Yangqi and I’m currently a freelance visual designer based in New York. My multimedia arts and design background provided me with a wide range of interests and skills, an open mindset to embrace the mixture and the ability to adapt. I’ve collaborated with artists, galleries, and startups for their visuals on fun projects. My passion lies in using multimedia storytelling to build strong brand identities and deliver impactful designs across various platforms.

When I’m not in front of the computer, I’m most likely on my way hunting coffee and exhibitions or stewing chicken in the kitchen.

Have you ever had to pivot?

My most recent pivot came after graduating and entering the job market. This transition reshaped both my professional role and personal priorities. The biggest challenge was shifting my mindset from six years of fine arts education to working with clients’ visions. During this process, I reached out for guidance, and an alumnus I connected with shared valuable insight—he views each client as a professor, someone he can learn from. This perspective inspired me to embrace my current situation and approach client work with a positive attitude.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most fulfilling part of being a creative professional is I get to brainstorm and transform abstract concepts into tangible creative solutions. There’s something deeply satisfying about engaging with challenges creatively, whether it’s developing visual solutions or finding innovative approaches to complex issues. Working with creative ideas and creative people is inherently rewarding because I can do what I love.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://design.yangqideng.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/77yangqi/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yangqideng/