We were lucky to catch up with Kexin Chen recently and have shared our conversation below.
Kexin, thank you so much for taking the time to share your lessons learned with us and we’re sure your wisdom will help many. So, one question that comes up often and that we’re hoping you can shed some light on is keeping creativity alive over long stretches – how do you keep your creativity alive?
As a graphic designer, I find this field to be dynamic and exciting. To keep my mind sharp, I use an inspiration journal. I rely on simple, quick methods to capture ideas. For instance, I might sketch interesting shapes with markers or snap photos of unique color combinations with my phone. Sometimes, I make collages and experiment with digital color tweaks. This approach allows me to go beyond sketches and record the visual impact and inspiration from different materials.
This journal contains rough ideas, impromptu doodles, and potentially useful observations. I might jot down the composition of street art or note clever packaging designs. I’m always engaging in these quick visual journeys, carefully documenting them. This visual diary captures my thoughts, inspirations, sparks of creativity, and fleeting “chasing shadows” impressions.
I try to jot something down daily, even if it’s just for a few minutes. This habit trains me to constantly notice creative elements around me. Sometimes, a random note from a month ago suddenly becomes key to solving a current design challenge. When I revisit these entries, it easily ignites more refined creative thinking by tracking my creative growth.
This method helps me track my creative progress, from initial ideas to final solutions. It sharpens my thinking and serves as a springboard for new ideas, making my creative process more flexible and resourceful.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
As someone who struggles with verbal expression and writing but is passionate about visuals, combined with a keen interest in human insight and storytelling, I’ve become a visual designer dedicated to narrating stories about people. In fact, rather than calling myself a visual designer, I prefer to see myself as a communicator.
For me, visuals are a powerful means of communication that go beyond mere aesthetics. I aim to transcend the visual aspect, using it as a strategy to tell compelling stories. I believe that behind every design lies a human story – sometimes about an individual, perhaps even myself, and other times about a group, a community, or an organization.
My design work spans various mediums including publications, motion graphics, 3D installations, and AI. However, people consistently remain at the heart of my design practice. I always return to the human element, using it as a foundation to craft beautiful narratives. Visuals serve as an engaging strategy, and through this approach, my designs aim to contribute to a brighter future for everyone.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Three key qualities have been crucial in shaping my path as a visual communicator: designing adaptability across mediums, focus on communication, and empathy about people. I am willing to explore multiple design mediums, motion design, AI, 3D installations. This allowed me to choose the most effective medium for each story. I always consider design as a communication tool to enhance the story I’m telling. My interest in human insight and storytelling enables me to create designs that resonate on a personal level.
For those early in their journey, I would say embracing diverse mediums to become a more versatile designer. I encourage prioritizing effective communication by practicing the translation of complex ideas into clear visual narratives. Lastly, cultivating curiosity about people through observation, engagement, and empathy.Keeping a quick inspiration journal would be very helpful, I would say.
How would you describe your ideal client?
I love working with someone who’s up for exploring all sorts of creative possibilities. Sometimes they get excited about trying new things – maybe adding some AR to a brochure or making an experience more interactive.
As designers, we are not afraid to think outside the box, which usually leads to some pretty cool and lively designs. I wanted to invite my client to join this unique journey and see what would happen afterwards. They’re happy to chat through ideas and understand that the best designs often come from back-and-forth conversations.
Contact Info:
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
