Yutong Xie

In 2015, I had the opportunity to study digital design in a studio setting at school. I fell in love immediately in the process. I like to bring abstract ideas into a concrete design that can be displayed in the real world for the world audience. Design is how I communicate. I thoroughly enjoy the design process that involves brainstorming, prototyping, and testing.

Currently, I work as a visual artist, working on many passionate projects in collaboration with independent filmmakers and music artists. My primary responsibilities revolve around creating compelling visual content, including graphics, posters, and visual identities, using a variety of design software tools. In addition to these tasks, I play a pivotal role in designing sets and costumes for film and music projects, contributing to the overall world-building process. My work is characterized by a blend of creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of visual storytelling to enhance the immersive experience for audiences across diverse media platforms.

Creativity, to me, embodies both freedom and respect. It's the freedom to explore new ideas, experiment with different concepts, and push the boundaries of conventional thinking. When collaborating with fellow artists, creativity thrives in an environment that is open to new ideas and willing to embrace experimentation. However, alongside this freedom, I believe it is crucial to uphold a sense of respect and authenticity. Respect the creative process, the perspectives of others, and the authenticity of one's voice. Through creativity, I find a profound way of understanding universal issues that connect us all and a path to living life to its fullest potential.

For me, a creative idea or design comes from authenticity and honesty. It's about tapping into a genuine source of inspiration and allowing that to drive the creative process. Creativity flourishes when there are fewer preconceived judgments or limitations, allowing the exploration of unconventional paths and innovative solutions. Moreover, a truly creative design has the power to convey complex or controversial ideas in a way that invites dialogue and understanding rather than confrontation. It acts as a bridge, facilitating conversations and fostering mutual empathy and understanding among diverse perspectives. In essence, a creative design can transcend boundaries and cultivate connections, ultimately leaving a lasting impact on its audience.

My creative process usually starts with an idea that I'm passionate about but find difficult to articulate verbally. I will explore the general direction of the concept, considering elements such as themes, emotions, or visual aesthetics. For example, if I'm exploring a concept related to envisioning a future lifestyle where individuals live in isolated grid systems, I might delve into research on brutalist architecture, contemporary communication methods, and Internet subcultures like Frutiger Aero. Following my research, I move on to planning and executing visual design. This involves sketching out ideas, creating prototypes, and conducting material research to bring the concept to life. Throughout this phase, I constantly refine and iterate on my designs based on feedback and personal reflections. Finally, I share the finished design according to my original plan while remaining open to unexpected changes or insights that may arise during the process. This iterative approach allows me to stay adaptable and ensure that the final result effectively conveys the essence of the original idea.

My favorite part of the creative process is the initial brainstorming and research phase. It is during this stage that my imagination feels most liberated and my inner world becomes vibrant with possibilities. As I delve into research and exploration, I find myself navigating through a realm of ideas and concepts, allowing my mind to wander freely. This phase serves as a form of independent, self-initiated study, allowing me to organize chaos within my inner world. It is a process of discovery and synthesis, where I gather inspiration from various sources and begin to piece together the elements that will form the basis of my creative work.

My creative style is best described as freestyle. For me, freestyle design embodies a continuous journey of learning, reflection, and practice that permeates every aspect of my daily life. Whether I'm walking down the street or sitting in a caf

My cultural heritage holds profound significance in shaping my design aesthetic. The beauty of Chinese culture, especially the rich heritage of my hometown Sichuan, with its vibrant Ba-Shu cultural influences, has played a pivotal role in shaping my identity and creative vision. As a person, my upbringing immersed in the traditions and aesthetics of Southern China has left an indelible mark on my artistic sensibilities. When audiences engage with my designs, they embark on a journey infused with the essence of Southern Chinese aesthetics. From intricate patterns inspired by traditional Sichuan art to vivid colors reminiscent of the region's landscapes, my designs are imbued with elements that pay homage to my cultural roots. This infusion of Southern Chinese aesthetics adds depth, authenticity, and a unique flavor to my creative expressions, allowing viewers to experience a glimpse of the rich cultural tapestry that has shaped my artistic journey.

I am very honored to receive the MUSE Creative Award 2024 as an independent artist. I want to say thank you to MUSE for organizing this showcase for all artists internationally. We need creative spaces to communicate and celebrate. Cheers to all the winners and hope to see more in the future!

The "Melt Coffee" logo design was my first project in China. My client, a young woman entrepreneur, started a concept coffee shop and welcomed diverse ideas. This marks a significant milestone in my design career, and I aim to present it in the most impactful way possible.

The long-distance presented a challenge due to the time difference with my client. We have devoted a great deal of time to digital communication, and I am immensely grateful for the seamless and accurate interaction facilitated by the global internet.

The award will introduce the design to a wide audience and no doubt help others learn about the back stories behind it.

My top three favorite things about our industry are: Collaboration with creative individuals who value open communication and constructive confrontation. Appreciation of the diverse cultural backgrounds present in our world, from which I have truly learned a great deal. The opportunity to constantly innovate and push boundaries within the creative sphere.

My home country, China, boasts incredibly diverse and rich cultures. Hailing from Luzhou, Sichuan, China, my hometown serves as a springboard for inspiration, characterized by its picturesque mountain landscapes and sub-tropical climate. The city of Luzhou has inspired me through its vibrant tapestry of lifestyles, fostering a love of self-expression and embracing openness to the outside world.

I envision the future of creative space evolving into a modular system where independent artists curate their practices and engage in collaborative projects based on shared interests and availability. As the digital landscape continues to expand, I anticipate an increase in online business discussions and the use of virtual reality tools for seamless collaboration. This shift towards modular systems and virtual collaboration opens up exciting opportunities for artists to connect and create across geographic boundaries, fostering a more dynamic and inclusive creative community.

I would suggest that individuals approach the Internet as they would a free-access college campus, where exploration is encouraged but caution is advised due to the lack of a safety net. By using the Internet as a research and communication tool, the learning process can become playful and spontaneous. One of the most remarkable aspects is that answers are always within reach, as the Internet evolves and learns alongside us. However, it is essential to navigate this vast landscape with mindfulness, recognizing both its vast potential and potential pitfalls.

I have gained invaluable knowledge from online forums. For example, I honed my Unity skills through Unity.com's free courses and the supportive community. Designing with Unity has become a passion of mine, allowing both learning and enjoyment. On one occasion, I sought advice on a complex VR project and received insightful responses from experienced creatives in just 24 hours. Forums like Unity exemplify the wealth of expertise and resources available online, where you can stumble upon hidden gems as you explore.

One day, I aspire to buy land and establish an inclusive creative manufacturing center, open to all and operated on a not-for-profit basis. Inspired by Parson's manufacturing center, where students have access to a diverse array of design technology spaces such as the 3D Print Lab, Darkroom, Woodshop, Sewing Hub, Casting, Laser, and Motion Capture facilities, my vision is to create a similar space. This center will be self-organized and meticulously maintained, fostering an environment where creativity knows no boundaries. My ultimate goal is to make creative works accessible to everyone and inspire the world with love and care.

I believe that the concept of love is a profound inspiration in my life. Love is not easily articulated in words; rather, it permeates the very air we breathe, shaping our experiences and interactions. In my designs, I aim to evoke the essence of love

I believe kindness, courage, and resilience are fundamental keys to success. Kindness brings me immense joy and serves as a constant source of inspiration in my life. It fosters connections, cultivates empathy, and contributes to a positive and uplifting environment. Courage empowers me to stand firm in expressing my truth, even in the face of challenges or adversity. It allows me to embrace authenticity, take bold risks, and pursue my passions with conviction. Resilience is the guiding force that drives me through life's inevitable ups and downs. It instills in me the strength to overcome obstacles, bounce back from setbacks, and continue to move forward with unwavering determination. Together, kindness, courage, and resilience form the foundation on which I build my path to success, shaping my journey, and enriching my experiences along the way.

Kadi Tsang, https://www.kaditsang.com/, Kadi Tsang is an independent filmmaker primarily based in New York. Since graduating Tisch, she co-founded Art Avenue which focuses on cultural diversity and mental health. Her works often look into identities and human connections, with an aim to reduce misunderstandings through art. Michael Cong, https://michaelcong.com/, Michael Cong is a Chinese filmmaker based in New York. He is a passionate cinematographer working with narratives and commercials. With respect and dedication, Michael creates a sensitive world of cinematic wonders. Communication and integrity are important to Michael's filmmaking process. Marco Villard, https://marcovillard.com/, Marco

Art heals. Wishing everyone a meaningful and diverse journey in creativity.