Rising Stars: Meet Yucen Yao of Stevenson Ranch

Today we’d like to introduce you to Yucen Yao

Hi Yucen, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I’m Yucen Yao, a graphic designer, illustrator, and visual artist from Nanchang, China. I recently earned my master’s degree in graphic design from CalArts, and my journey has been nothing short of diverse and exciting. My work spans various settings, including branding studios, creative agencies, and even a food and beverage company. Additionally, I’ve freelanced for clients in different industries and have taught kids to paint and explore creative art projects.

Growing up as an only child under the one-child policy in a middle-class family, my mother played a significant role in shaping my life. As a music teacher specializing in piano, she took my education very seriously from a young age. She enrolled me in various extracurricular classes like ballet, classic guitar, piano, guqing (a plucked seven-string Chinese musical instrument), tennis, tea ceremony, and drawing. Drawing was the one activity that truly resonated with me, and it’s something I’ve loved ever since.

My mother also made it a point to expose me to different cultures and places, taking me on trips across major cities in China, Europe, and Southeast Asia. These experiences taught me to view the world with an open mind and a desire to explore new things, meet different people, and embrace various ways of living.

When it was time to choose a college major, like many Chinese parents, mine were concerned about the practicality of a career in fine arts. While they didn’t pressure me, societal expectations influenced my decision to study graphic design—a middle ground where I could pursue my passion for illustration while ensuring a stable career. After graduating from Guangzhou University, I began working in a branding studio, which further honed my skills and solidified my passion for design.

This experience, combined with my diverse background and passion for art, eventually led me to pursue a master’s degree in graphic design at CalArts. There, I had the opportunity to work on various projects that aligned with my values, particularly those focused on environmental conservation and social issues.

My journey has been one of constant exploration and growth, both personally and professionally. I believe that my unique perspective, shaped by my upbringing, education, and experiences, allows me to bring something special to every design project I undertake. Whether it’s through branding, illustration, or motion design, my goal is always to create meaningful work that makes a positive impact on the world.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
One of the biggest bumps was dealing with imposter syndrome, especially during my first year at CalArts. Back in China, I had always considered myself a fairly accomplished young graphic designer—at least in my own little bubble. Then suddenly, I found myself in a room full of creative geniuses from around the globe. It was like going from being a big fish in a small pond to a tiny fish in the Pacific Ocean! The coursework was intense, and I was constantly trying to prove to myself that I deserved to be there.

Another challenge was finding my direction as a designer. What should I do for my thesis. I always knew I wanted to use my skills to make the world a better place, but I wasn’t sure how to channel that passion. It took time and a lot of self-reflection to discover that I was most passionate about projects related to environmental conservation and social issues.

And then, there were the practical challenges—navigating visa regulations, and balancing my passion with the need to pay bills. But, even with all the obstacles, each challenge taught me something valuable—like how to stay calm when everything feels like it’s on fire.

Thankfully, with faith, the support of my friends and families, and a good dose of stubborn determination, I believe with god helps I could stay on track. Every twist and turn along the way has helped me grow, not just as a designer, but as someone who’s learned to laugh in the face of adversity—or at least chuckle when things get tough.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m a graphic designer, illustrator, and visual artist who wears many creative hats—sometimes all at once! My work spans a wide range of specialties, from branding and illustration to motion design . I’ve had the opportunity to work with branding studios, creative agencies, and even in the food and beverage industry. I also enjoy doing commission work that’s tailored to meet my clients’ specific needs, whether it’s creating a unique logo, designing a wayfinding system.

What sets me apart is my ability to blend my diverse experiences with a deep passion for using design as a tool for positive change. I’m known for my work in environmental conservation and social issues—projects that aim not just to be visually appealing, but to spark thought, conversation, and, ultimately, action. I’m always looking for ways to make a meaningful impact through my work.

One of the projects I’m most proud of is the “Eco Garden Toolkit,” which I developed as part of my thesis at CalArts. This project wasn’t just about designing beautiful zines and California native plants plant cards—it was about empowering individuals and families to make environmentally conscious choices in their own backyards. Knowing that my work can inspire others to take action for a better planet is incredibly fulfilling.

Another project that I recently did is with Baja Christian Ministries. Since October 1991, Baja Christian Ministries (BCM) has dedicated itself to serving the spiritual and physical needs of impoverished communities in Baja California, Mexico, through engaging short-term mission teams. I had the opportunity to design the June newsletter brochure ,featuring the “Build Love Missions” program and “One Million Disciples” initiative, which was printed in 4,000 copies and distributed to members. Being part of an initiative that has such a profound impact on people’s lives was incredibly rewarding.

But what truly sets me apart is my belief in the power of collaboration. I’ve learned that the best work happens when creative minds come together, each bringing their unique perspective to the table. I’m always open to new partnerships and collaborations because I believe that by working together, we can create something that’s not only beautiful but also impactful.

So, whether I’m designing a brand identity, illustrating a children’s book, or creating a motion graphic to explain a complex concept, my goal is always the same: to create work that resonates, inspires, and drives positive change.

What’s next?
As I look to the future, I’m excited about expanding my work and exploring new creative avenues. One of my main goals is to continue growing my freelance business, taking on diverse projects that challenge me and allow me to collaborate with a wide range of clients. I’m looking forward to the possibility of working on more international projects. Having grown up in China and now being based in Los Angeles, I love to bring a global perspective to my work. I hope to collaborate with organizations and clients from different cultures and backgrounds, creating designs that resonate across borders.

I’m always on the lookout for opportunities to collaborate with other artists and designers. Recently, I had the chance to work with a local artist, promoting their upcoming exhibitions, and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. It’s collaborations like these that fuel my creativity and push me to explore new ideas.

In addition to freelance work, I’m also interested in exploring opportunities within corporate companies, where I can bring my unique perspective and skills to larger projects. On a more personal note, I’m planning to open an Etsy shop with some friends. We’ll be selling my artwork, including my California native plants cards, illustration prints, and handcrafted items. It’s an exciting venture that combines my love for art with the opportunity to connect with people who appreciate handmade and thoughtfully designed products.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.yucenyao.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yucen.creates/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@yucenyao5438
• Other: https://www.behance.net/yucenyao

Image Credits
Portrait photography: Tian Liu
Native plants cards photography: Zoe Liu
Other photography: Yucen Yao
Design/Illustration: Yucen Yao