Conversations with Hankai Yan

Today we’d like to introduce you to Hankai Yan

Hi Hankai, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
When I moved to Los Angeles, I was eager to immerse myself in the city’s vibrant creative scene. Fresh off graduating from the Academy of Art University, where I had sharpened my design skills, I felt empowered by winning two awards at the Adobe Creative Jam. Those accomplishments gave me the confidence to push my visual storytelling even further, and LA seemed like the ideal place to explore and grow creatively.

Shortly after, I had the privilege of working with WET Design on one of their most iconic projects. Known for their mesmerizing water and light installations that seamlessly blend nature and technology, WET gave me the chance to be part of their innovative team. I contributed to “Surreal”, a landmark installation at Dubai Expo 2020 that evoked dreamlike experiences. This project allowed me to meticulously design dozens of consumer products across digital, print, and experiential elements. Watching how my work could transform a physical space and tell a compelling story was incredibly rewarding. It reaffirmed my passion for crafting immersive experiences that leave a lasting emotional impact on people.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Balancing work and studying at the University of Southern California was one of the toughest challenges I’ve faced. I was pursuing my master’s degree while working on high-pressure projects in the entertainment industry. Managing deadlines, keeping up with academic demands, and delivering high-quality work simultaneously felt like walking a tightrope. There were nights when I stayed up late working on client projects, only to be up early the next day for classes or critiques. The pressure to excel in both realms was immense, and at times, I questioned whether I was stretching myself too thin.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My next milestone came when I joined FX’s “Shōgun”, a monumental historical drama at Disney Entertainment. This project gave me the chance to fully immerse myself in visual storytelling, where I combined traditional design with modern technology to evoke the rich history and atmosphere of Japan’s Sengoku era. As a designer focused on creating immersive, visually compelling experiences, I contributed over 120 Kanji characters and animations for the marketing campaign—spanning teasers, the Oscar spot, and social media. While some may see them as just captivating graphics, I ensured that each stroke was faithful to the art of calligraphy, embodying the cultural significance of the era. This project wasn’t just about design; it was about honoring centuries of history and tradition.

What sets me apart is my ability to blend influences from my migration background and my experience living in both Eastern and Western cultures. My love for storytelling allows me to create work that is not only culturally rich but also highly adaptable across diverse platforms. Whether it’s branding campaigns, multimedia installations, or interactive experiences, my work seamlessly combines animation, typography, and visual design to evoke strong emotional responses.

Just last month, Shōgun won 19 Emmys—a record-breaking achievement on television’s biggest night. It still feels surreal to have been part of something so extraordinary. When you build something with heart, when you truly care about what you’re creating, it shines through.

Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
What brings me happiness is the creative process—transforming ideas into something tangible that resonates with people. There’s a unique joy in witnessing how a design, animation, or visual experience can evoke emotion and tell a story that words alone cannot capture. That moment when everything aligns—the colors, the motion, the concept—resulting in a cohesive narrative is incredibly fulfilling for me. I find true satisfaction in knowing that my work can connect with people on a deeper level, transcending mere aesthetics to engage with emotions, culture, and shared experiences. This is the essence of why I do what I do: to create moments of connection that linger long after people have experienced my work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://neonhank.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neonhank/