Life & Work with Jane Wu

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jane Wu.

Hi Jane, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start, maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers.
My passion for art and design began to blossom during my upbringing in Hong Kong. It all started in a neighborhood art studio, where I first ventured into the world of drawing. As I progressed through my education, I attended a secondary school with a strong focus on art, and it was there that I took my very first design class during middle school. While I remained uncertain about the specific creative field I wanted to pursue, I held a steadfast determination to forge a career in the creative realm. 

Upon completing my high school education, I seized the opportunity to study abroad in the United States, gaining admission to the prestigious School of Visual Arts. At SVA, I majored in both advertising and graphic design, laying the foundation for my creative journey. Subsequently, following the successful attainment of my Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree, I further enriched my experience through internships at a fashion magazine and by engaging in freelance projects. Fueled by a profound interest in 3-dimensional design, I decided to pursue a master’s degree at Pratt Institute with a specialization in Package Design. This field seamlessly integrated my skills in both 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional design, aligning perfectly with my aspirations. Presently, I hold the position of Creative Lead at a Nutritional Beverage company, where I oversee all creative initiatives, including a recent comprehensive rebranding endeavor that encompassed the brand, packaging, and online store. 

Simultaneously, I actively engage in diverse independent projects for clients based not only across the United States but also around the world. 

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?
In general, I consider myself fortunate throughout my journey. Naturally, when I initially relocated to the United States, I had to navigate and overcome certain cultural adjustments. Adapting to a new culture, educational system, and environment presented its challenges, such as language barriers and adapting to different teaching methods. Additionally, the competitive nature of the creative industry required dedication and hard work to stand out and secure opportunities. 

Nevertheless, these challenges ultimately contributed to my growth as a creative professional, pushing me to be more resilient and adaptable. Each hurdle along the way served as a valuable learning experience, and I believe they have been essential in shaping my career and personal development. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an interdisciplinary designer specialized in package and branding design. I am a HongKonger based in the United States. Graduated from Pratt Institute, I have obtained an MS degree in Package Design with distinction. Additionally, she received her BFA degree from School of Visual Art majoring in both Advertising and Interdisciplinary Design. 

My approach to every creative challenge always starts with a cup of tea and a clean sheet of paper. Cookie cutters are not my thing. In my package design, I favor the integration of patterns and original illustrations. Additionally, I have a keen interest in typography and editorial design. More recently, I’ve delved into the realms of UI/UX design. Embracing an interdisciplinary approach, I believe my ability to navigate various disciplines, formats, and media equips me to effectively tackle complex problems. 

What matters most to you?
For me, originality holds the utmost significance, whether in design or one’s personal traits. It’s widely acknowledged that many creative ideas today may not be entirely novel. However, I firmly believe that people can discern whether ideas originate authentically from an individual or if they are merely attempts at imitation. Even when refining an existing concept, it’s crucial to infuse it with your unique perspective. Personally, I hold immense respect for those who express their genuine selves and approach things in their own distinctive manner, irrespective of the quality of their designs. 

Contact Info:

• Website: http://letjanedesign.com/
• Instagram: letjanedesign