We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Yiran Ye a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

YIRAN, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What was the most important lesson/experience you had in a job that has helped you in your creative career?

One of the most important lessons I learned as an artist came during my time working on a fast-paced interior design project at a design company right after I graduated. We were tasked with creating a giant retail space, and the deadline was extremely tight. Because we were a really small team working on such a large project, even though I had just graduated, I still had to provide a lot of design ideas and coordinate closely with clients, engineers, and fabricators. This project became a pivotal experience for me, teaching me the importance of adaptability and communication.

Initially, I focused purely on the aesthetics and design aspects, thinking that as long as I executed a visually stunning concept, everything else would fall into place. But halfway through the project, there was a major issue—some design elements I had developed couldn’t be built within the client’s budget, and certain materials were no longer available. This setback forced me to rethink my entire process. I had to quickly pivot, communicate more closely with the technical teams, and redesign parts of the project to align with the constraints.

What stood out most from this experience was the importance of collaboration and flexibility. I realized that no matter how beautiful or innovative a design is, it has to be practical, achievable, and aligned with the broader vision. It pushed me to think beyond just the creative aspects and consider how every decision impacts the project as a whole.

This lesson has been invaluable, especially as I’ve moved into more independent, entrepreneurial work in 3D art and branding. It taught me to always stay open to feedback, to consider the technical and business sides of a project, and to see challenges as opportunities to grow and innovate. That project showed me that true creativity often comes from finding solutions within limitations, and it’s a mindset I carry with me into every project I take on now.

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

I’m Yiran, a designer with a background in architecture, 3D art, and branding strategy. My journey into this field started with a fascination for the way spaces in spaces could tell stories. That passion led me to study architecture and urban design at UCLA, where I honed my skills in creating spaces that weren’t just functional but also emotionally engaging.

After graduating, I worked at design firms, where I gained experience in interior and architectural design, as well as visual storytelling for clients in various industries. My focus shifted towards blending my technical knowledge with digital tools, and I became deeply involved in 3D art, virtual environments, and visualization. I provide services that range from environment art and interior/architectural design to visual branding and web design, helping clients craft immersive experiences that align with their goals and identities.

What sets me apart is my ability to combine a strong narrative focus with technical expertise. I don’t just design spaces—I craft environments that tell stories, whether it’s a virtual world for a game, a retail space that embodies a brand, or a digital experience that captivates users. My work often blurs the lines between physical and digital, bringing a unique perspective to each project.

I’m most proud of the diverse range of projects I’ve been able to work on, from conceptual art to practical commercial spaces. I believe that design should not only meet the client’s immediate needs but also push boundaries and provoke thought. I aim to deliver solutions that are not only aesthetic and functional but also innovative and memorable.

For potential clients and followers, I want them to know that my approach to design is collaborative and story-driven. I thrive on creating work that not only meets technical requirements but also resonates on an emotional level., I’m committed to delivering creative solutions that elevate and inspire.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me, the most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the ability to bring ideas to life and evoke emotions through visual storytelling. There’s something deeply satisfying about starting with a blank canvas—whether it’s a virtual space, a design concept, or a branding project—and transforming it into something that resonates with people on a deeper level. The moment when someone interacts with a space or a design I’ve created and feels a connection or a sense of wonder is incredibly fulfilling.

As a creative, I love the challenge of solving complex problems with aesthetic solutions. Every project is an opportunity to explore new ideas, push boundaries, and create something unique. It’s rewarding to know that the work I do, whether it’s designing an immersive environment or crafting a brand’s visual identity, can shape how people experience and engage with the world around them.

The continuous learning and experimentation are also hugely rewarding. As an artist, you’re never static—there’s always a new tool, technique, or perspective to explore. That growth, both creatively and technically, keeps me energized and passionate about what I do.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

One of the most impactful books on my thinking, both creatively and entrepreneurially, has been The Society of the Spectacle by Guy Debord. This book really opened my eyes to the way modern society is shaped by images, representations, and the commodification of experiences. It profoundly influenced how I approach branding and visual storytelling, especially in today’s digital age where brands and businesses must be more than just functional—they need to create experiences that resonate emotionally and culturally with their audiences.

Debord’s work helped me realize that people no longer just buy products or services; they buy the spectacle, the narrative surrounding it. This aligns with how I approach design and branding—crafting not only a visually compelling product but also a meaningful experience that engages people on a deeper level.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yira_nye/?hl=enlinkedin
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yiranye08/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@rr-po2rv
• Other: https://www.artstation.com/yiran_ye