Life & Work with Rivai Li of New York city

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rivai Li.

Hi rivai, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My name is Rivai Weizhuo Li, and I’m an art director and motion designer currently based in New York City. With roots in animation and illustration, I’ve always been drawn to finding poetic and expressive ways to tell stories—where color, shape, and motion work together to evoke emotion and bring narratives to life.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I always joke with my friends that artists need struggles—they’re what push us to find new ways to express ourselves. Fortunately, I’ve had my fair share. From moving to a new country without knowing anyone, to completing my master’s program, giving public speeches, and now facing the next big leap—transitioning from a student to a professional designer—each phase has brought its own challenges and growth. Right now, I’m at a pivotal point in my journey. As I explore how to express my ideas more clearly through style and form, I also push myself to take on more ambitious, complex projects. It’s not always easy, but it’s in these moments of uncertainty that I feel the most creatively alive.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m recognized as an illustration artist and a motion designer—I tell stories through images and bring them to life with movement. I also work in art direction, particularly on branding for events. Most recently, I directed CoMotion 2025, the world’s largest student-led motion design conference. Leading the branding team for such a major event has been one of my proudest accomplishments. Collaborating with over 40 artists was no easy feat, but it taught me the value of communication, trust, and creative leadership. Being part of the leadership team gave me a broader view of the entire process and helped me grow more confident and ambitious about what I’m capable of creating next.

What do you like and dislike about the city?
I attended a conference in Pasadena last year, and the experience really stayed with me. Unlike the constant rush of New York City, where everyone is always on the move and working on something, Pasadena had a different rhythm. It felt like a place where people could slow down, find their own space, and simply live their best lives. I loved that sense of balance—it reminded me how important environment is to creativity and well-being.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://rivaili.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wrivaiz/?next=%2F