Conversations with Jiayi Hu

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jiayi Hu.

Hi Jiayi, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I consider myself both a graphic designer and a creative programmer. Originally from Beijing, China, I earned my bachelor’s degree in new media design there three years ago. Subsequently, I relocated to the U.S. and completed my master’s degree in graphic design at ArtCenter College of Design.

I often describe myself as a designer with a programmer’s mindset. Beyond the traditional designer’s tools, I work closely with code. I’ve taught myself four coding languages, and many of my projects focus on hard-code-based, generative designs. While my primary focus is on digital media and UI/UX design, in my free time I enjoy photography, crafting whimsical posters for my cat, and illustrating.

In my younger years, I never imagined I’d become a “geek.” I was more drawn to the exhibition and curatorial design. It’s fascinating to see how I transitioned from a distinctly “fine art” individual to someone who engages with numbers and algorithms daily.

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?
The trip was overall delightful. I’ve always viewed myself as fortunate and rarely second-guess the decisions I’ve made. Looking back, life seemed to flow more smoothly for me once I ventured into the art and design industry. As a kid, I was the one who’d doodle manga during math class in middle school.

When surrounded by creative individuals, I sense a unique energy within me. A big shoutout to all my incredibly talented classmates and partners with whom I’ve had the pleasure to collaborate. These creatives exude a raw, undiluted passion and a pursuit of beauty. Their energy constantly inspires me, filling me with gratitude and reigniting my passion as I journey onward.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I specialize in digital media, primarily focusing on UI/UX design now. I enjoy pushing boundaries while maintaining a rational perspective. Perhaps due to my front-end knowledge, design decisions for me go beyond creating something unique and memorable; they should also be practical and attainable.

I take pride in my ability to work effectively in cross-cultural environments. While in China, I had the opportunity to collaborate with numerous curatorial teams, interacting with individuals of varied titles, ages, and personalities. After relocating to the US, ArtCenter provided a diverse setting where I could create alongside many talented individuals.

These real-life experiences solidified my belief that as designers, our primary focus should be on people – the genuine living beings (Especially in this digital age). As I emphasized in one of my personal projects, “Algorithmic Bible”: “We design not for faceless data or soulless numbers, but for the living, breathing human spirit.”

What do you like and dislike about the city?
LA is a city bursting with energy, a city with an open heart. It draws out your inner passion. I’m very much a “tropical” person, and the weather greatly influences my mood. I also have a fondness for the beach, so my favorite weekend activity is to drive to the shore and relax on the sand for hours.

What I like the least – of course, traffic; I really wish LA could have a better public transport system to fits people’s different needs.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jiayihu.design/