Conversations with Vela Wang

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

Vela, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’m a 23-year-old graphic designer and UI/UX designer based in Los Angeles, California. My journey into the world of design began long before I even knew what graphic design was. From a young age, I was always drawn to visually pleasing aesthetics, but it wasn’t until after middle school that I realized how much poorly designed visuals bothered me. I felt a growing urge to correct what I saw as ‘wrongs’ in the design world, but I lacked the knowledge and tools to make a difference. That all changed when I discovered the field of graphic design and visual language.

I moved to Los Angeles in 2017 to pursue my passion academically and professionally. I earned a Bachelor of Art in Graphic Design, with honors, and a minor in Film Studies from Loyola Marymount University. The education I received there was invaluable, not only in terms of technical skills but also in shaping my philosophy about design. It was a transformative experience that allowed me to turn my passion into a profession.

Upon graduating, I joined Puff Bar as a full-time graphic designer. I also take on freelance projects to diversify my portfolio and continue to grow in my field. I’m an active member at Soho House, where I serve as a Soho Fellow, which allows me to connect with like-minded professionals and continue my personal and professional development.

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 journey to where I am today has been anything but smooth. Like many creative professionals, I’ve faced my share of challenges and setbacks. One of the most pervasive struggles has been dealing with imposter syndrome. Even after earning my degree and landing a full-time job, there were moments when I questioned my abilities and worthiness. It’s a mental hurdle that I’ve had to work on continuously to not let it hinder my growth and creativity.

Being a first-generation artist and college student added another layer of complexity. The lack of resources and guidance made the learning curve steeper. There were times when I felt like I was navigating an unfamiliar landscape without a map, trying to figure out the norms, expectations, and technicalities of both academia and the professional world.

Additionally, moving to Los Angeles in 2017 meant leaving behind my support system. The city is a hub of creativity and opportunity, but it can also be isolating when you’re trying to make it on your own. The absence of immediate family and friends made the struggles feel more overwhelming at times.

Despite these challenges, each obstacle has been a learning experience, shaping me into the designer and person I am today. They’ve taught me resilience, adaptability, and the importance of seeking out resources and communities that can help guide me. I’ve found some of that guidance and community through my involvement with Soho House as a Soho Fellow and through the various freelance projects that have come my way.

So, no, it hasn’t been a smooth road, but I believe that the bumps and detours have made me more resourceful and empathetic—qualities that I consider invaluable in my line of work.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am deeply immersed in the world of graphic design, driven by a passion to communicate stories and evoke emotions through my work. My designs are not just visual representations; they are narratives that intertwine empathy, culture, and aesthetics. Whether I’m working on a film project or a musical tour, my goal is to create a visual experience that complements and elevates the subject matter.

I’ve had the privilege of working on several notable projects. For instance, I was one of the graphic designers in the “Miles Trips Page Design”, and we have won the Top Design Winner in Other Products designs/ Product User Interface Design from the European Product Design Award, and we also won the ‘Winner in User Interface design / UI/UX Design from C2A Creative Communication Award. I designed the poster for “The Foreigner’s New Adobe,” which was honored as ‘Best Short’ at the Chinese American Film Festival (C.A.F.F.). My work on “The Thirty Three Stories” poster played a role in its recognition at the WorldFest-Huston International Film Festival. Additionally, I had the incredible opportunity to design a poster for the Netflix-sponsored film ‘Pedacito De Carne,’ which was showcased at the Los Angeles Latino International Film Festival (LALIFF) 2023.

Outside of film, I’ve also ventured into the music industry, designing promotional assets for CloZee’s Microworlds tour, which spanned over 50 shows worldwide. My solo exhibition, ‘Show-Life Together’, showcased my love for animal artworks and was a significant milestone for me, as was my participation in the 2022 Visual Art Exhibition of Asian Artists in America.

What sets me apart is my belief that graphic design is more than just aesthetics. It’s a medium to convey stories emotions, and build connections. My designs are infused with empathy, care, and a profound understanding of the project’s essence, ensuring its success.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about Los Angeles is its incredible diversity, both in terms of its people and its cultural landscape. The city is a melting pot of creativity, offering a range of experiences that cater to all kinds of artistic and personal tastes. Whether it’s the bustling creative hub of Soho House, the laid-back and eclectic atmosphere of Abbot Kinney in Venice, or the historic charm of Pasadena, LA has something for everyone. Each neighborhood has its own unique vibe, making the city a never-ending source of inspiration for me. It’s this blend of culture, creativity, and community that makes Los Angeles not just a great place to live but also a constant source of inspiration for my work.

However, if there’s one thing I like least about Los Angeles, it would have to be the traffic. The city is known for its sprawling landscape, which is both a blessing and a curse. While it offers a variety of experiences, getting from one place to another can be a time-consuming endeavor, especially during peak hours. The traffic can be a significant drawback when you’re trying to make the most of what the city has to offer.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://velayilindesign.cargo.site/
• Instagram: @vela.yilin.design

Image Credits
First and second image: Creative Director: Cris De Guzman 3D rendering: Daniel Foster