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

Yunzi, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been the most meaningful project you’ve worked on?

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve worked on is the branding for ViennArt Academy. This project is especially close to my heart because I was one of the core team members from the very beginning. ViennArt Academy is a high school with a focus on art, rooted in NYSA, a portfolio prep program in Vienna, Virginia. The academy helps students who are passionate about art build their portfolios while keeping up with their academic studies.

As a designer and educator for many years, I truly believe in the power of art education, and I hoped this high school could help students realize their artistic dreams. Being part of the core team meant I wore many hats—I handled the branding, website design, marketing materials, scheduling, and communication with both the teaching team and students.

The design process was a journey in itself. We held frequent meetings to define our mission and values, and I pitched about ten different logo ideas before we finally landed on the one that felt just right. It was modern, creative, and truly reflected our identity as an art-focused institution. Once the logo was chosen, I built out the entire brand guideline system and created everything from promotional videos and flyers to posters, signage, brochures, and other materials that brought the school’s vision to life.

Today, the academy is thriving, and the project even won a Bronze Prize at the A’Design Award—a global competition. While receiving this recognition was exciting, what matters most to me is seeing how the branding supports our school’s identity and connects with students, parents, and educators. As the school continues to grow, I’m committed to evolving the visual system to reflect its progress and keep inspiring young artists to pursue their dreams.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a designer and educator with a background in graphic design, UX/UI design, and branding. My journey started back in college when I was studying English and discovered my love for art. Over time, that passion led me to design, and eventually to education—where I found real fulfillment in combining creativity with mentorship.

I provide a variety of creative services, including logo design, branding, website design, poster design, package design, and illustration. On top of that, I also offer graphic design tutoring to help students build their skills and confidence. As someone who’s devoted to design education, I love guiding art enthusiasts and young creatives toward the right path. I strongly believe in exposing students to different art forms and new technologies early on so they can develop skills and confidence that will serve them well in the future.

Outside of teaching, I freelance with start-ups, helping them with logo design, branding, and website creation to promote their businesses. I especially enjoy working with start-ups because it feels like getting to know a new person. I love learning their stories, values, and goals, then shaping a visual identity that reflects who they are. That process of understanding and translating their vision into something visual is what truly energizes me.

What sets my work apart is my ability to blend creativity with clear communication and strategy. Whether I’m designing a logo, building a website, or creating marketing materials, I always aim to craft something meaningful that resonates with people. Seeing how my work empowers businesses and inspires young creatives keeps me motivated every day.

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

The most rewarding aspect of being a designer is seeing the impact my work has on people. Whether I’m helping a start-up shape its identity or guiding a student through their creative journey, it’s incredibly fulfilling to know my designs make a difference. I love that moment when a client sees their vision come to life, when their ideas, values, and goals are transformed into something visual that truly represents who they are.

Equally rewarding is working with students and watching them grow. As someone passionate about design education, I believe exposing young creatives to different art forms and new technologies early on empowers them to build skills with confidence. Seeing students develop their artistic voice and feel proud of what they create is an incredible feeling.

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

At the beginning of my creative journey as a graphic designer, like many young creatives, I wanted to be a famous designer. I poured my energy into commercial and non-commercial projects, often sacrificing sleep to keep pushing myself. But over time, I realized a weakness—I enjoyed creating, but I didn’t enjoy advertising myself. I’d rather spend my day immersed in creating new illustrations than spend hours on social media to seek applause.

Instead of promoting myself, I found joy in spreading knowledge and technique through teaching. As my career progressed, my mission pivoted from seeking fame to becoming a trustworthy and responsible educator. Teaching became the best outlet for me to create and also make a difference. It allows me to continue my creative journey while helping others grow, which is far more fulfilling than the pursuit of personal recognition.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://yunziliu.myportfolio.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/godarken
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liuyunzi/