Meet Bao Hu

We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Bao Hu a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Bao, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?

My confidence has developed through experience and practice. Over the years, I’ve consistently pushed myself out of my comfort zone, whether by learning new tools or tackling projects in unfamiliar ways. A few years ago, I challenged myself to become better at 3D design and motion graphics. Initially, these areas were challenging, and it took me a while to overcome the learning curve, but the more time I spent learning about them, the better I got. This journey not only expanded my skills but also helped me see things from multiple angles and solve design problems with a more innovative approach.

When faced with a big project or challenges in my creative process, I find breaking tasks into smaller steps and tackling them one at a time really helpful. This approach helps me start the flow while gaining confidence as I achieve smaller goals. In this competitive industry, it’s easy to doubt oneself, especially when surrounded by talented artists and designers. When I find myself comparing with others, I always try to shift my perspective and look at myself as my biggest fan, appreciating the skills and experience I’ve already gained. This way, I can focus on how I can contribute uniquely with my talent, keep moving forward, and continue learning.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I am a multidisciplinary designer originally from Beijing, China, with extensive experience in visual, motion, and interactive design. Growing up in an artistic family, I was fortunate to have abundant support from my parents to pursue my passion for art, which has always been a significant part of my life. After earning my BFA in Visual Communication from the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, I pursued my MFA in Graphic Design at the Maryland Institute College of Art.

Since moving to New York, I have collaborated with clients across various industries, including Pfizer, Thom Browne, Reynolds, Fontainebleau Las Vegas, Lumanity, and Empower. My expertise spans typography, visual identity, motion graphics, UI/UX, illustration, and 3D animation. As a visual communicator, I create thoughtful, enlightening designs that bring ideas to life and make stories memorable, pushing the boundaries of traditional design while working across various mediums and styles.

My work has been exhibited in various locations including Beijing, Shenzhen, Baltimore, and Florida. Last year, I led a project for Fontainebleau Las Vegas, which involved digital screen content showcased at the 2024 New Year’s Eve celebration in Times Square, New York. My work has been featured in prominent media outlets such as CCTV 5 and China Daily. Additionally, I have received recognition for design excellence from GDUSA American Graphic Design Awards, The Society of Typographic Arts (STA), Communication Arts (CA), AIGA Blue Ridge, and the Indigo Design Award.

Currently, I am a Motion Designer at A+ Photography & Film Production, a production company owned by the legendary American designer Peter Arnell. Previously, I have worked with Team Design and Butter Studio. I am passionate about learning diverse topics and cultures, and I enjoy collaborating with clients across various industries such as health, science, fashion, hospitality, sports, and finance. Seeing my designs successfully launched into the real world and witnessing their positive impact provides me with immense motivation and satisfaction.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back, the three most important qualities for me have been curiosity, an open mind, and taking action. As a curious person, I enjoy learning and exploring new territories, continuously expanding my skills and knowledge. Learning new things excites me and fuels my creativity. I also believe having an open mind is crucial for my career. I strive to be multidisciplinary and embrace all possible mediums. This openness allows me to seize opportunities and do my best with whatever comes my way. You never know what opportunities are out there until you try.

Finally, nothing can be achieved without action. Creative breakthroughs come from the back-and-forth process of thinking, making, and experimenting. Taking action helps me avoid overthinking and focus on the creative process. Whenever I start taking action, I stop worrying about perfection and instead focus on continuous improvement.

Is there a particular challenge you are currently facing?

Currently, I find myself spending too much time on the laptop, which can sometimes leave me feeling uninspired and lacking creativity. I also want to create more self-initiated projects but often struggle with where to begin. When this happens, I shift from creating digitally to working with analog mediums like watercolors. Sometimes, I pick up a sketchbook and go to a park or botanical garden to observe and sketch a lovely corner; other times, I draw from pictures I’ve taken during my travels. Creating with my hands, getting messy, and embracing spontaneity allows me to have fun, play, and generate new ideas.

I also prioritize taking care of my health, both emotionally and physically. I ensure I get enough rest every day and run on the treadmill for 20 minutes whenever I can. I believe a healthy and happy mind and body make us more capable at work, allowing us to have fun, be more creative, and produce good work. Moreover, I try to connect and surround myself with other creatives who are passionate about their practices. They’ve helped me see that I’m not alone on this journey and have shared how they overcome creative blocks and avoid burnout. Their support and insights have been invaluable in maintaining my motivation and inspiration.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hubaodesign.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hubao_design/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/baohu/