Rising Stars: Meet Weiying Ma

Today we’d like to introduce you to Weiying Ma.

Hi Weiying, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I have always had a passion for creativity. Drawing has had an innate attraction to me since I was young. From a young age, I was constantly doodling and drawing. However, despite my talent and love for the arts, I felt pressured to pursue a more “practical” career path. It was only during my undergraduate studies that I gradually realized the significance of interests in a person’s life. After being exposed to some fundamental design courses, I felt the desire to delve deeper into this field. I was initially hesitant, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that pursuing an artistic career was the true path to happiness for me. And it is also because of my passion for it that I have continued honing my skills and exploring new creative avenues. And despite the occasional struggles and roadblocks, I have never lost my love and passion for the arts.

Design is more than just a passion for me. It’s a friend that provides guidance and comfort, a teacher that continues to challenge and inspire me, and a source of security that keeps me grounded. When I’m faced with difficulty and exhaustion, design remains my motivation to keep pushing and persevering.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey in design has been anything but smooth, and most of the challenges I’ve encountered have been internal. The biggest obstacles I’ve faced have been self-imposed, stemming from a constant cycle of self-doubt and introspection. I was trained alongside some extraordinarily talented designers, which led me to frequently question my own abilities and the very essence of good design. To navigate these challenges, I’ve sought mentorship and solicited a range of opinions. Deep down, I’ve always craved validation, which has pushed me to continually refine my skills. I’ve thrown myself into competitions and submitted my work far and wide. While questions about what constitutes “good design” still linger, these struggles have ultimately fueled my ongoing quest for excellence and personal growth.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a graphic designer, I believe that design is not limited to two-dimensional spaces. In fact, I strive to explore different mediums and use them to convey stories in a unique and impactful way. ArtCenter College of Design, where I am currently studying, encourages experimentation and innovation, which has allowed me to learn and work with emerging media such as 3D modeling, creative coding, spatial design, and motion graphics. My goal is to incorporate these new technologies into the language of graphic design so that the designs I create are more engaging and effective in resonating with audiences. Ultimately, my approach to design is to create designs that are not only visually striking but also communicate a clear message and evoke emotion. I strive to create designs that resonate with audiences, regardless of the medium or platform used.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
As an introvert, my ability to listen has actually been a strength in networking. Whether I’m engaging with people online through platforms like LinkedIn or meeting them in person at industry events, genuine interactions are what stand out. I take the time to really hear people’s stories, offering meaningful feedback where I can. When seeking mentors, I focus on those who share my goals and interests, keeping in mind that the best mentor-mentee relationships are mutually beneficial. A quick but sincere follow-up to show appreciation or share an update goes a long way in cultivating and maintaining valuable connections. By applying these principles consistently, I’ve formed relationships that have been crucial to my personal and professional development.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://weiyingma.work/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weiying-ma
• Other: https://emotxt.org/