Conversations with Kayley Wang

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kayley Wang.

Hi Kayley, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I was first introduced into the film entertainment industry when I took an office tour at a VFX studio, Rhythm & Hues. I was fascinated by all of the work that went into movies behind the scenes, and it quickly became something I knew I wanted to be a part of. From then on, I set my sights on the film entertainment industry and took steps toward getting my foot through the door. I attended ArtCenter College of Design, where I majored in Graphic Design with a focus in Motion Design. I had a mentor already within the industry who helped guide me in curating my personal portfolio to fit film and TV. Post-graduation, I was fortunate to intern for notable studios like Imaginary Forces, which helped give me first-hand experience on how the industry works. Currently, I am a motion designer at BOND, where I get to work on trailers for film, TV, and games. There were many things led me to where I am now but it was definitely a humble journey filled with hard work, hustle, and passion.

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?
It definitely has not been a smooth road. Since the beginning, the pressure was always on. I had idea how to even get into film and TV graphics. I had no portfolio, I had no confidence as a new artist trying to get into an industry that seemed so out of reach at the time. Applying to ArtCenter was also extremely daunting. It was a highly reputable school who was known to only accept high-caliber artists. I spent several months building a portfolio from scratch and pushing myself to create content in hopes that I would be accepted. Once I got in, I was peered with a lot of extraordinary students who were already well-versed in animation prior to entry at the institution—setting expectations high. Motion design was a competitive focus at ArtCenter and I always felt like there were other students who were better than me. I spent many all-nighters at school and caught up on whatever time I had left to sleep before classes in my car. Despite all of those challenges, I gave it my all amidst all of the pressure because I knew that’s what it took to reach my goal. In the end, the hustle paid off and I was able to achieve what I had set out to do in the beginning.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a motion designer at BOND, where I work on trailer graphics for film, TV, and games. I do everything from 2D to 3D design and animation, but my specialty lies more in 2D design and animation. I’ve had the opportunity to work on several notable films and shows such as: Euphoria, The Batman, Oppenheimer, and many more. One project that I am most proud of from my time at BOND would be the Mortal Kombat 30th Anniversary montage. In that project, we were tasked with creating a way to showcase a transition between old gameplay to the new. It was a project no short of its own pivots and challenges but, in the end, it was an incredibly fun piece that I was proud to be a part of. What sets me apart is that I always try my best to bring ideas to the table. They might not always hit the mark but I believe you need to go through the bad ones to get to the good ones.

What matters most to you? Why?
What matters the most to me is that I am always learning and humble. I work with so many talented artists who have learned a multitude of tricks in their own experiences. I stumble all the time, whether it be technical or design-related. Knowing that I am always welcome to help or critique from others because I believe it helps allow me to create my best. In this industry, things are always changing quickly and I try my best to flow with those changes to help better myself as an artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kayleykw.com/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayley-wang-profile/