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

Yiwei, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Are you able to earn a full-time living from your creative work? If so, can you walk us through your journey and how you made it happen?

For over 27 years, my life has been a blend of art and business. This mix has made my dream-chasing journey rich and varied. I’ve moved from the clear-cut world of mathematics to the fluid realms of art and fashion, innovating with 3D printing and making waves in cities like Chicago, New York, and London.

My designs caught the eye of Uniqlo, leading to a notable collaboration and exposure at MoMA’s PopRally. However, a return to China saw me diving into the secretive world of Dior’s haute couture and designing for Nike, blending city vibes into fashion.

Shifting from creation to commerce, I became a buyer, aiming to invigorate the fashion scene with my blend of artistry and market insight. I’ve observed that the fashion industry’s value doesn’t always align with originality but rather with strong branding and unique style, which speaks to a deeper cultural, historical, and societal narrative.

My experiences have taught me that pursuing dreams is a communal journey, marked by personal growth and societal contribution. I advise aspiring designers to be patient, immerse themselves in the industry, and marry creativity with business acumen.

Even while buying, I kept designing, highlighted by an invitation to showcase my work in Shanghai. Eventually, I left a secure job to pursue an MBA in the U.S., funded by my savings, leading to significant personal growth and an expanding social media presence. This digital expansion has become a key element of my career strategy.

Now in New York, I merge design with commerce, leveraging social media to enhance my role in exhibition planning and brand promotion. My journey underscores the powerful interplay between artistic expression and business strategy, driving towards a future where each supports and elevates the other.

Yiwei, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My path has been a blend of art and business, particularly in fashion design, shaped significantly by my upbringing. My parents, especially my supportive father, fueled my creativity. Initially, my journey began with a solid grounding in mathematics, but I soon pushed past traditional limits, venturing into fashion. I embraced technology like 3D printing, creating innovative clothing that was showcased in major international cities such as Chicago, New York, and London.

My father, with his imaginative mind and flair for words, was particularly influential during times when I faced creative blocks. His unique perspectives often provided the spark needed to overcome artistic hurdles.

As my career evolved, I shifted towards the business side of fashion, becoming a buyer. This transition was driven by my understanding of the natural link between artistic creativity and commercial strategy, allowing me to bring fresh energy and ideas to the industry.

In terms of design philosophy, I am deeply committed to expressing emotions through clothing. I integrate advanced technologies from various fields to realize my creative visions, avoiding initial sketches to keep the three-dimensional potential of my designs unrestricted. This approach involves hands-on experimentation with materials, building up forms before focusing on the finer details.

Currently, my role in the fashion industry is extensive. Beyond designing, I’m involved in planning exhibitions and promoting businesses, emphasizing the importance of versatility in turning creative designs into marketable successes. I aim to offer more than traditional fashion design; I merge creativity, innovation, and strategic business thinking. My goal is to create designs that not only evoke emotion but also succeed commercially, maintaining a balance between the artistic and the entrepreneurial.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Creating a nurturing environment for artists and creatives is deeply personal and impactful. It starts with providing emotional and financial support. This can be in the form of grants, funding, or even community backing, much like the support I received from my family. Such assistance is not just about money; it’s about giving artists peace of mind, enabling them to focus on their craft without the distraction of financial pressures. It allows for a freedom that can lead to greater creativity and expression.

Furthermore, fostering an accessible and welcoming space for arts education is essential. My own journey from mathematics to fashion design illustrates the importance of allowing individuals to explore beyond traditional boundaries. By offering varied educational pathways, we enable those from all walks of life to discover and hone their artistic talents, enriching the creative landscape.

Lastly, adapting to and leveraging digital platforms for visibility is increasingly important in today’s world. My experiences with 3D printing and online promotion underscore the significance of embracing technology. Artists should be equipped and encouraged to use digital tools and platforms, enabling them to showcase their work worldwide. This global stage not only amplifies their voice but also connects them with a community that appreciates and supports their work. By focusing on these aspects, we can help create a more supportive, dynamic, and inclusive environment for all artists and creatives.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Certainly, my journey is driven by a clear goal: to explore the blend of art and business. This mission has shaped my choices significantly. For example, I decided against continuing my academic journey to dive directly into the professional world back home. By participating in brand events and collaborations, I gained practical insights into the industry’s workings, understanding profitability and building essential networks.

This dedication also led me to explore related fields like exhibition management and social media. Expanding my skills beyond traditional design allows me to approach my work holistically. It’s about recognizing the synergy between creative expression and business acumen.

So, my mission is to blend artistic creativity with business strategy, ensuring my work is both meaningful and marketable. This involves engaging in real-world experiences and broadening my understanding of the art landscape, aiming to make my art impactful and economically viable.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yiweiwu1115?igsh=MWcxdDB2ZHd6dm90Mw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Other: 小红书xiaohongshu（red book）：wuyiwei1115 伍伊惟 https://www.xiaohongshu.com/user/profile/62cbd8aa000000000303ef7f?xhsshare=CopyLink&appuid=62cbd8aa000000000303ef7f&apptime=1709755519

Image Credits
Designer: Yiwei Wu