Meet Chenwei Xu

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Chenwei Xu. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Chenwei below.

Hi Chenwei, great to have you with us today and excited to have you share your wisdom with our readers. Over the years, after speaking with countless do-ers, makers, builders, entrepreneurs, artists and more we’ve noticed that the ability to take risks is central to almost all stories of triumph and so we’re really interested in hearing about your journey with risk and how you developed your risk-taking ability.

Risk-taking is an essential part of personal growth.

One of the biggest risks I’ve undertaken was relocating from my home country shortly after college to pursue graduate school and career opportunities in the States as an international student. The challenges international students face can be stressful, including cultural shock, language barriers in the workplace, work sponsorship and visa issues, which create a constant risk of rejection or job loss.

Despite these difficulties, I am grateful for my decision. Stepping outside of my comfort zone has provided me with invaluable self-awareness, enriched my skill set, given me confidence, and enabled me to identify and leverage my unique strengths, even after facing countless rejections and failures.

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’m Chenwei Xu, a multidisciplinary designer based in Los Angeles, United States. With a strong background in Graphic Design and over five years of professional experience, I have collaborated with international clients on numerous projects spanning multiple industries. My passion lies in 2D/3D motion, event visuals and branding, illustration, and motion graphics, where I strive to bring creative visions to life.

In my career, I’ve achieved success in visual design by winning international awards and showcasing my work at global events. Notably, my designs have been showcased at renowned festivals such as the 39th Chicago Latino Film Festival and NomadHer’s 2022 Female Globetrotter Festival. Additionally, I was honored as the top creative portfolio at The One Club for Creativity’s Portfolio Night Shanghai in 2019. My designs have also been featured in esteemed publications including Graphis, Money Today, and Screen Magazine.

Though my journey has been challenging, it has taught me valuable lessons in perseverance and resilience. Through my studio, Chenwei Xu Design, I strive to be known for passion, creativity, and professionalism, making a lasting impact through captivating visual storytelling.

Please reach out for freelance projects and collaborations. hello@chenweixu.com

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, three key factors were most impactful in my journey: commitment and hard work, openness to diverse opportunities, and active networking.

Commitment and Hard Work: My focus on design and creativity, through passion-driven projects, has been fundamental. This approach has helped me refine skills in illustration, 2D/3D motion design, graphic design, infographics, and video editing.

Openness to Diverse Opportunities: Embracing various opportunities has broadened my expertise and adaptability, enabling continuous learning and growth in different areas of design.

Networking and Resilience: Building relationships with industry professionals and seeking mentorship have provided invaluable insights and opportunities. Embracing rejection as part of the growth process has strengthened my resolve.

Okay, so before we go, is there anyone you’d like to shoutout for the role they’ve played in helping you develop the essential skills or overcome challenges along the way?

Many people have been instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and develop the essential skills, qualities, and knowledge needed for success.

I am beyond grateful to my team at VMLY&R, Shanghai. During my very first internship, I met an exceptional group of mentors who introduced me to the world of design and creativity.

A special shout-out to the MFA Design program at SVA. I am grateful for the support, guidance, and opportunities provided to me throughout my grad program.

Additionally, I’d like to express my gratitude to all the industry professionals I’ve networked with. After sending hundreds of cold emails and messages on LinkedIn, I’ve been fortunate to connect with some responsive individuals. Their valuable insights and guidance have been so helpful, especially during the early stages of my career.

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