Jinyun Li is a talented multidisciplinary designer and visual artist known for her innovative approach to blending art and technology. With a unique background that began in accounting, she brings a structured, analytical perspective to her creative work, allowing her to merge precision with imagination. Her career spans multiple disciplines, including UX design, furniture and industrial design, installation art, fashion, and film, which she uses to craft visually compelling, user-centered experiences. She has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Muse Design Awards, NYX Awards, and MarCom Awards, affirming her commitment to excellence and her ability to push creative boundaries. Her work is deeply rooted in a philosophy of accessibility and inclusivity, focusing on designing experiences that are as meaningful as they are visually engaging.
How do you stay updated with the latest trends and technology in design?
I stay updated by constantly learning, whether through online courses, industry articles, or exploring new software. Additionally, I actively engage with design communities where I can see what’s trending and share insights. This continuous learning is essential in design since technology and trends evolve rapidly. I make it a point to integrate these insights into my work, ensuring that my designs are both innovative and aligned with current user expectations.
What motivates you to keep creating and innovating in your field?
My motivation comes from a desire to connect with people and make a difference through design. Knowing that a project can enhance someone’s experience or inspire them is incredibly fulfilling. I’m also driven by a curiosity to explore new ideas and experiment with different mediums, from digital interfaces to installation art. This constant evolution keeps my work fresh and meaningful, allowing me to push creative boundaries and offer new perspectives.
What advice would you give to aspiring designers and creatives?
My advice would be to embrace a learning mindset and be open to exploring diverse experiences. Don’t be afraid to take risks or venture into unfamiliar areas, as each experience adds depth to your skills and perspective. Seek feedback, but remember to trust your own vision. Building resilience and adaptability is crucial, as the design field can be unpredictable. Lastly, focus on creating work that resonates with your values and passions—this authenticity will help you make a lasting impact and grow as a creative professional.
How do you balance working across so many disciplines, and how does one field influence another in your creative process?
Balancing multiple disciplines requires a combination of time management and a deep passion for each field. I view my work not as separate silos but as interconnected parts of a larger creative vision. My work in film informs my storytelling in UX design, where I create user journeys that feel intuitive and immersive. This interconnectedness keeps my work dynamic and prevents creative stagnation.
What role does storytelling play in your creative process, and why do you think it’s important?
Storytelling is at the heart of everything I create. Whether it’s designing a chair, crafting a film, or building a user interface, I think of each project as a narrative—something that takes the audience or user on a journey. For example, in furniture design, the “story” might be how the piece integrates into a space and complements the lives of those who use it. In UX design, the story is about guiding users smoothly and meaningfully through an interaction. I believe storytelling is what transforms functional design into something memorable. It adds depth, emotion, and a sense of connection, making the work resonate on a human level.