Today we’d like to introduce you to Sejin Park.
Hi Sejin, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I knew one thing ever since I was little: I loved art and wanted to be a part of the ever-growing world of art. I did not know then how I would evolve to become who I am today. At the age of nine, my family immigrated from South Korea to the United States. Transitioning to a new country presented many awe-filled memories. However, I was also faced with challenges adapting to a foreign world at an early age. Despite the challenges, from South Korea to the States, I had one constant, art and design. I loved animated films ever since I can remember, which led to drawing, painting, and doodling my world and stories. This love transitioned smoothly in my immigration; art truly has no barriers. I remember not even knowing how to spell my name in English when I first came to the States in elementary school classes, but I attended my art classes without any obstacles. Art and design became my outlets for self-expression and comfort.
Since then, I pursued this path with full force. The allure of visual storytelling and creativity inspired me to delve into design. I was particularly drawn to illustration for its power to communicate feelings and stories through images. This enthusiasm motivated me to join the Art Center College of Design, where I aimed to refine my illustration skills.
While at Art Center, I gained a broader perspective on design that went beyond just illustration. Taking classes in motion design, graphic design, and branding introduced me to fresh ways of showcasing my ideas creatively. I was particularly captivated by the dynamic aspects of motion design, the impactful role of visual identity in branding, and the meticulous details of graphic design.
Now, I am a multifaceted designer, practicing my craft as a professional daily, a true “dream come true” moment!
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
My journey has been rewarding but not without its bumps. Professionally, being in the creative field meant encountering obstacles to juggling creativity with practicality, meeting deadlines, and adapting to meet the ever-changing demands of the design industry are just a few struggles I’ve faced.
The design realm is filled with exceptional talent, making it a highly competitive sector. This means consistently pushing myself to innovate and enhance my skills. Competition can serve as a motivator for growth, but it also brings its fair share of disappointments and setbacks. Nonetheless, each hurdle has ultimately been a learning opportunity, pushing me to refine my skills and approach.
In the earlier stages of my career, navigating life and work in this industry has presented a significant challenge. I found it difficult to strike a balance between meeting deadlines, rest, and even spending quality time with loved ones. Despite my deep love for design and the drive it gives me, I’ve come to realize the necessity of self-care and finding a healthy balance between work productivity and personal well-being. Self-care goes beyond physical rest; it opens up unexpected sources of inspiration beyond project demands and research outside of the world of pixels. Spending time with my loved ones not only helped me unwind but I grew to value the steadfast support and love of my friends and family who walked with me through the highs and lows of my career.
Overall, while the road hasn’t always been easy, the challenges have ultimately strengthened my love and passion for design. Each bump in the road has been a steppingstone towards growth and success in my industry.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
As a Senior Designer at BUCK, a design studio I’ve admired since my early school years, I’m proud to contribute to its remarkable reputation for diverse and exceptional design work. What sets BUCK apart is its ability to embrace a wide spectrum of projects and clients, which aligns perfectly with my own specialization. Drawing from my varied design background, I excel in approaching client briefs from multiple angles and utilizing various design mediums. Whether it’s crafting character-driven motion pieces, orchestrating comprehensive branding campaigns, or refining clean typographic layouts, I thrive on the challenge of solving design problems across a broad spectrum of projects.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
While I’m often described as someone who prefers to stick to the tried and true, I approach risk with careful consideration, both in my personal life and in my professional endeavors. When it comes to design, however, I embrace a different mindset. Upon receiving a brief, I meticulously analyze every aspect to fully understand the client’s needs and project requirements. While starting with safe designs is my default approach, I don’t hesitate to push boundaries and explore unconventional ideas. This process allows me to stretch the limits of what’s possible, often resulting in innovative solutions that elevate the project to new heights. While not every risk pays off, many clients appreciate the fresh perspective and bold approach, ultimately leading to successful outcomes.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sejin.design/
- Linkedin: http://www.linkedin.com/in/sejin-park-0626
