Today we’d like to introduce you to Layla Zhan.
Hi Layla, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I am Pingyu Zhan, but I prefer to be called Layla Zhan. My initial foray into the world of design began in China at Fuzhou University. Here, I laid the groundwork for my design skills. However, I felt a calling for a deeper dive into the craft, which led me to the United States to pursue my MFA at the ArtCenter College of Design.
This transformative period in my life did more than just develop my technical skills; it shaped my philosophy toward design. It was here that I cultivated my unique approach to graphic design – an approach deeply rooted in emotional resonance and multicultural influences.
Emerging into the professional sphere, I garnered recognition in the form of prestigious accolades, including A Design Award and International Design Award (IDA). I began to establish myself as a graphic designer, using my unique approach to create impactful and emotionally resonant designs.
Each project I undertake is a new journey of exploration, where I distill complex emotions into visually engaging narratives. I draw from my multicultural experiences to create designs that connect with audiences on a deeper level, fostering empathy and acceptance across diverse communities.
Today, as an experienced designer, I am committed to using my design skills to promote cultural awareness and connection. Every project, every design, serves as a step on my journey, and I continue to learn and grow with each stride. I am excited about what the future holds and the new opportunities it presents to deepen my craft and contribute to society through my designs.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Navigating the world of design hasn’t always been smooth sailing for me. Speaking of my designs, translating the intricate web of human emotions into visual narratives is no easy task.
But, for me, the real joy comes from the connections my designs foster. Every time someone feels a bond with my work or understands a new perspective, it’s a small win in my journey to bridge cultures and emotions.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At my core, I’m a designer who thrives on storytelling, with packaging design and graphic design being my prime mediums. Through these platforms, I tap into the emotional core of consumers, making tangible connections between products and their stories.
My specialization lies in packaging design. In today’s competitive market, how a product is presented can make all the difference, and I’ve dedicated myself to ensuring that each package I design is not just functional but tells a compelling narrative. The design of a package should evoke a feeling, a memory, or a promise, and my multicultural background allows me to do just that, weaving stories that resonate with a broad spectrum of consumers.
What sets me apart? It’s the blend of my cultural experiences, emotional focus, and technical expertise. I don’t just design – I curate stories, fostering connections and evoking emotions. In a world of visuals, I pride myself on ensuring that behind every graphic or package, there’s a tale waiting to be told, a message waiting to be understood, and an emotion waiting to be felt.
What makes you happy?
I find immense happiness when a product I’ve packaged or a visual I’ve designed sparks joy or curiosity. It’s like a silent conversation between my work and the observer, and there’s something truly special about that unspoken bond.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.laylazhan.com/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pingyu-zhan/
