Today we’d like to introduce you to Alaya Lee.
Hi Alaya, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I‘m a visual designer based in Chicago.
My story begins with melodies and rhythms shaping my early years. I dedicated myself entirely to mastering the piano, sacrificing most of my childhood and teenage years with rigorous practice and rehearsals. This dedication led me to earn a degree in Jazz Piano, but upon graduation, I had a realization. I had lost the essential joy and emotional connection that initially drew me to music. Recognizing that I had become more of a robot than a pianist, I made the difficult decision to step away from the piano.
This led me to explore new territories in search of my lost creativity. Eventually, I found myself drawn to the world of graphic design. This newfound interest sort of reignited my passion and joy that I hadn’t felt since my early days. Embracing this, I pursued a Master’s in Graphic Design from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). The transition wasn’t easy as it was filled with uncertainty and challenges. But over time, through my studies and the new friendships and experiences I encountered, I managed to bridge the gap between my past and my present. This journey not only awarded me with a professional degree but also reconnected me with the joy and enthusiasm of my younger, more creative self.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of my biggest struggles was realizing that I had lost the original love and joy I once felt for music. This revelation was a major turning point, leading me to close the lid on my piano and stepping into unknown.
Aside from the daunting uncertainty, the transition graphic design presented its own set of challenges. It was like teleporting into an entirely different world. I grappled with self-doubt and the fear of starting over in a field while rebuilding my confidence both in this new field and myself. These struggles were crucial in my journey. They pushed me to grow, adapt, and ultimately reconnect with my creative self, guiding me to where I am today.
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’m a versatile designer with strengths in typography, visual communication, and creative problem-solving. I specialize in turning complex information into clear, engaging visual forms, often exploring cultural trends and behavioral patterns. My expertise lies more in conceptual thinking than technical skills. Unique to my design approach is the blend of Eastern upbringing with Western perspectives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://alayalee.org
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/1516info?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaya-lee-7b4bab200/
