Rising Stars: Meet Di Lu of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Di Lu

Hi Di, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’ve been fascinated by design since I was a kid. I would take apart packaging, study magazine layouts, and doodle all over my textbooks, imagining ways to create my own visual language. For me, design has never just been a skill—it’s a way of exploring the world.

My journey started with graphic design, but over time, I expanded into brand identity, exhibition design, UI/UX, and even animation and interactive experiences. I’m drawn to design that tells stories and solves real problems, rather than just looking good. In my personal work, I focus on social issues, particularly my research on how bullying leads to social anxiety and how these experiences shape self-perception. I’m currently exploring ways to translate these complex emotions into design—whether through short films, installations, or interactive experiences—to give form to feelings that are often hard to express.

Beyond commercial projects, I constantly push my creative boundaries, from co-founding InProcess Design Studio to experimenting with AI-driven creative experiences. Winning awards like the A’ Design Award and Muse Gold has been validating, but what excites me more is how design can spark conversations and help make invisible emotions seen and understood—that’s what truly drives my work.

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?
Definitely not a smooth road—it never is when you’re trying to carve out your own creative path. Design itself is full of challenges, but beyond that, I’ve faced struggles that shaped both my work and my perspective.

One of the biggest hurdles has been navigating self-doubt, especially when stepping into new territories like UI/UX or motion design. Imposter syndrome kicks in hard when talented people surround you, and there were times I questioned whether I was good enough. But I’ve learned that discomfort usually means growth, and pushing through that has helped me evolve as a designer.

Another major struggle has been the emotional weight of my research. My work explores how bullying leads to social anxiety—a topic that’s deeply personal. Translating these complex emotions into design isn’t easy, and at times, it’s been mentally draining. But it’s also been incredibly rewarding because I know that by visualizing these experiences, I’m creating something that others might relate to or find comfort in.

And of course, the reality of working in design—tight deadlines, client expectations, and the constant push to stay innovative—comes with its own set of challenges. But I see all of it as part of the journey. Every struggle has shaped my approach, making me more resilient and more intentional with the work I create.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My work as a designer is deeply rooted in visual storytelling, exploring themes of identity, emotion, and social dynamics. I specialize in visual systems, UI/UX, and exhibition design, but I’m especially drawn to projects that delve into personal and societal narratives.

One of my most meaningful works is “Shadows in Socialization,” a project that examines the relationship between bullying and social anxiety. Through distorted imagery, fragmented visuals, and pixelated expressions, I aimed to capture the psychological impact of these experiences—how they linger in memory, shape self-perception, and create invisible barriers in communication. It’s a deeply personal project, but also one that resonates with many who have faced similar struggles.

What sets my work apart is my approach to design—I don’t just create for aesthetics; I design to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and make intangible experiences visible. Whether it’s through installations, motion design, or interactive experiences, I strive to craft work that feels immersive and thought-provoking.

Beyond my personal projects, I co-founded InProcess Design Studio, where we merge creative storytelling with functional design solutions. I’m also exploring AI-driven creative experiences, pushing the boundaries of how technology can enhance emotional storytelling. Winning awards like the A’ Design Award and Muse Gold has been an honor, but my biggest reward is when someone connects with my work—when they see a part of themselves reflected in the visuals and feel understood.

We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something surprising that most people might not know about me is that, despite being deeply immersed in visual storytelling and design, I have a strong interest in psychology and human behavior. A lot of my work, including “Shadows in Socialization,” is influenced by my curiosity about how experiences—especially social dynamics like bullying—shape identity and self-perception.

Another unexpected fact? I love hiking. Being outdoors, walking through nature, and immersing myself in the environment helps clear my mind and sparks new ideas. It’s one of the ways I reset creatively—stepping away from screens, slowing down, and observing the world from a different perspective.

Also, while my work often carries serious or conceptual themes, I have a playful side when it comes to branding and creative projects. I enjoy blending deep, introspective ideas with bold, experimental aesthetics—kind of like mixing philosophy with pop culture. That’s something I’m pushing further in my newer projects, especially those exploring AI-driven creative experiences.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://ludispace.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/di-lu-b380b024b/