We’re looking forward to introducing you to Jiayi Ma. Check out our conversation below.
Jiayi , a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Joy
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi! My name is Jiayi. I go by Serena, a visual development artist and illustrator based in San Francisco, California. I have thought of my life as an “art book” having many pages, some already painted, some yet to come. 🎨
Most of my work is characterized by the use of color and a commitment to storytelling through daily life and little moments. My love of storytelling is influenced by journaling and movie studies.
I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with diverse clients and projects. Whether it’s creating characters for animated TV shows, designing covers for novels, or illustrating for children’s books, I thrive on the challenge of making the intangible tangible.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My mentor John Nevarez
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
“I think as an artist, doubts and self-questioning never really disappear — they evolve. I used to see them as signs of weakness, or proof that I wasn’t ‘good enough.’ But over time, I realized that those struggles-the constant tension between doubt and recognition-are fuel for my work. I stopped trying to hide that uncertainty and instead started pouring it into my art — the frustration, the questions, even the fears. That’s when my work began to feel real, raw, and personal. So I wouldn’t say I completely stopped feeling the pain — but I learned how to carry it differently, and how to use it as power.”
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
“I believe that technical perfection is overrated in art. Many people around me chase flawless lines and polished renderings, but I believe it is the raw, imperfect, emotional parts of art that actually stay with people. A technically perfect drawing that feels empty leaves no impact. But an imperfect sketch filled with honesty and personality — that’s what makes art unforgettable.”
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing?
I think what I would regret the most is giving up on my dream before even stepping into the industry — for example, settling for a safer, more stable path like becoming an art teacher, instead of pushing myself to pursue animation. Teaching is meaningful, but deep down, I know that creating and storytelling through animation is what I’ve always wanted. I don’t want to look back one day and wonder what could have happened if I had just been a little braver.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.jyserena.com/
- Instagram: j.y.serena
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jiayi-ma929/
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
