Rising Stars: Meet Jo Iijima

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jo Iijima.

Hi Jo, 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 designer currently studying at ArtCenter College of Design. My journey as a graphic designer began with a passion for exploration that has always driven me. Growing up in and experiencing diverse cities worldwide, including Tokyo, Hong Kong, Vienna, Toronto, and New York, has enriched my perspective as a graphic designer. This exposure has allowed me to appreciate diverse design styles and graphics found in different cities and incorporate them into my work. My love for creating art started in childhood and living in different countries further honed my eye for details of each culture, which led me to the world of typography and graphic design and a keen focus on the album artwork for musicians. With a strong desire to explore new places and things, I approach each project from a unique perspective, finding inspiration in the world around me and channeling it into my creative work.

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?
During ArtCenter’s intensive production school days, I constantly find myself in a rush, generating fresh ideas for various classes every day. Although coming up with new ideas poses its own set of challenges, it is ultimately an enjoyable aspect of being a designer. Embracing the difficulty of creating something new entertains me, as many of my design concepts would not have come to life without those struggles. I always keep a few quotes in mind: “Who am I speaking to? How can I help them? How can I bring a fresh perspective and surprise to them?” I pay close attention to the world around me, seeking inspiration from all sources. Through collaborating with various creative directors, peers, and professors, I have learned the invaluable skill of drawing inspiration from diverse sources, transcending the boundaries of a screen. This experience has transformed my perspective by allowing me to tap into the limitless inspiration found in the outside world. As a creative individual, developing new ideas and concepts will always be a challenge, but it is a struggle filled with passion and joy.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in brand identity, typography, and album artwork for musicians. I take pride in notable projects such as the Typo Lyon: The Shift, 88rising rebrand, and CONSEQUENCES. My focus lies in creating compelling narratives through dynamic typography that surprises and offers fresh perspectives to the audience. In the Typo Lyon project, I employed a typographic system called “The Shift” which expanded the stems of all alphabet letters, reflecting the anatomy of the typography itself. This system was incorporated into an interactive experience where visitors could expand their knowledge and shift their perspectives on typography. For the 88rising rebrand, the original logo typeface, “Rising Super,” embodies growth and inclusivity with its negative space in the corner, allowing both the artists and the audience to contribute to the completion of 88rising. The dynamic and versatile typography aims to elevate important voices and transcend cultural boundaries. In the CONSEQUENCES project, typography was used to convey the devastating impact of American gun violence. The shattered typography throughout the zine visually represents the idea of bullets shattering bones and minds, while the continuous travel of a bullet across the pages signifies the never-ending pain and tragedy associated with such violence. I always strive to connect typography with meaningful ideas that inspire thought and engagement from the audience. My willingness to take risks brings a fresh perspective and dynamism to my work.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The COVID-19 crisis, spanning my final year of high school and first year of college, presented a unique set of circumstances that profoundly influenced my creative journey. With a lot of time spent alone, I seized the opportunity to explore new avenues of artistic expression. I delved into the realm of collage artwork, honed my skills in playing the guitar, delved into the art of photography, and indulged in diverse cinematic experiences. This period of introspection provided me with the invaluable space to contemplate the essence of my creative work and the messages I wished to convey. The impact of the pandemic on my life and creative practice has been significant, shaping me both personally and professionally.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://joiijima.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joiijima.com_/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-iijima-6577a9254/