Today we’d like to introduce you to Siyi Jin
Hi Siyi, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I am a graphic and game designer currently based in Los Angeles, and my journey into the world of design began in an unexpected, almost magical way. At the age of 13, while waiting eagerly outside a stadium to see my favorite K-pop idol, I was struck by a sight that would chart the course of my future: a beautifully crafted fan slogan. This simple piece of paper, about 45cm by 15cm, was adorned with vibrant colors and compelling graphics that spoke to me in ways I had never experienced before. It wasn’t just a banner; it was a beacon of inspiration, fusing text, imagery, and an exquisite color palette in a dance of visual stimulation.
This early encounter with design kindled a flame within me, leading me to pursue a formal education at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). There, I immersed myself in the world of graphic design, creating everything from posters and books to logos and brands. My canvas was broad, my tools varied, and yet, a whisper in my heart told me to push beyond the conventional boundaries.
As my skills grew, so did my passion for creating experiences rather than mere visuals. I loved hosting friends, especially after the rigorous demands of big projects or finals. My home became a sanctuary where laughter and creativity flowed freely. Through these gatherings, I realized that the true power of design lies in its ability to foster connections and evoke emotions. I wanted my work to be interactive, to give back something tangible or memorable, whether a smile, a piece of art, or a moment of joy.
This profound insight has steered my career towards the entertainment path, where I aim to merge unexpected experiences with pleasing aesthetics. After graduating from RISD with a BFA in graphic design, I came to USC Games to pursue a Master’s degree in Interactive Media & Games. This transition not only empowers me but also bolsters my confidence in my creations. Imagine all design work as a box of chocolates—some pieces offer a rich and deep taste, others are topped with golden sparkles, and some might even help you sleep better. Among these, I strive to be the chocolate that has a question mark printed on top, and when you expect to get a strange flavor, you find it leaves a smiley face tattoo on your tongue.
Today, after four years of study at RISD Graphic Design and two years of study at USC Games, I describe my approach to design as a delightful dance between utility and whimsy. I strive to infuse a sense of play and surprise into everyday tools, using visual language to transform the mundane into the extraordinary. My goal is to uncover and share the hidden mirth that lies within the commonplace, inviting others to find joy in the unexpected and to engage with the world in new and enchanting ways.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
In my journey as a designer, I’ve always been guided by a cheerful mantra: to infuse joy and laughter into my work. However, bridging the gap between design as a form of solution and design as a source of delight has presented its own unique set of challenges, accompanied by moments of doubt and self-reflection.
Upon entering the new realm of game design, I quickly realized that my abilities to craft engaging game mechanics and provide seamless experiences for players were not as strong as I had hoped. This revelation led me to question my motives: Was my desire to inject playfulness into graphic designs a way of shying away from critical thinking? Was I using charm to compensate for a lack of depth in my ideas, much like a kitten seeking affection, pleasing my viewers instead of challenging them? Had I switched tracks because I doubted my abilities in graphic design, looking for an easier path?
These doubts were part of a significant pivot in my approach as I moved from an environment that valued conceptual depth and aesthetic innovation to one where technical skills and business strategies were more prominent. This shift was not just a change of scenery; it was a redefinition of my creative identity.
Adopting the term “player” instead of “audience” revolutionized my design perspective. In graphic design, playfulness had been a charming addition, a way to enhance a message or aesthetic. But in the universe of game design, playfulness became essential—a foundational element that was as critical as functionality itself.
This new world demanded a focus on seamless, engaging experiences above all else. The intellectual rigor and philosophical explorations that characterized my earlier work were still valued, but they now played a supporting role to the immediate, immersive experience of the player. This necessitated a creative recalibration, where the joy of interaction and user engagement became paramount.
Navigating this delicate balance between artistic integrity and the practical demands of game design has been my greatest challenge. It has been a journey filled with learning and adaptation, reminding me that effective design—whether it graces a poster or defines a game—must resonate deeply with those who encounter it, meeting them with experiences that are not only meaningful but delightfully engaging.
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?
As a graphic and game designer, I love to think outside the box—actually, I prefer to redesign the box entirely. My projects are a wild mix of ideas and processes, each unique in its own right. I’ve ventured into the realm of speculative design with an insect-eating future, experimented with glassmaking to challenge typeface legibility, and even used variable font technology to envision all the possible shapes a wine glass can take. Then there’s my emoticon pet, a quirky little creature that lives right on your Mac touch bar.
My approach isn’t just about creating things that look cool; I’m also deeply interested in how things work. I’ve developed a company system that probes into the fickleness of memory, crafted a board game that delves into Asian fan culture, and set up an interactive projection where players’ hand movements transform into poetry and abstract landscapes.
I consider myself more of an explorer in the world of design, constantly navigating the spectrum between practicality and playfulness. My work uses visual language to unearth hidden joys in everyday objects, turning the mundane into something spectacularly unexpected. While my projects might lack visual consistency, that’s the point—I thrive on diversity and the freedom to experiment without being tied to one style. This exploratory approach allows me to uncover new possibilities and redefine what tools can do.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
To me, success means satisfaction. It is waking up with passion, hope, and confidence for what you are going to encounter today—be it work, social interactions, or new challenges.
Pricing:
- Graphic/Text Logo: $600-800
- Business Brand Identity: $1500-2000
- Personal Brand Identity:$800-1000
- Book/Brochure: $150/cover $50/page
- Interactive project/projection mapping: $1000-$2000
Contact Info:
- Website: https://daisyjin.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daiisyjin/?hl=en
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/daiisyjin_gd/?hl=en
