Hanyue Song: Embrace Continuous Learning
Visual Communication Designer
by Elizabeth Lavis
|18 Mar 2024
If Visual Communication Designer and unofficial Life Artist Hanyue Song could give one piece of advice to aspiring designers, it would be to hone their practical skills and embrace continuous learning. “The design world is ever-evolving, with new trends, tools, and technologies emerging constantly,” she says. “Stay curious and committed to learning, whether through formal education, online courses, workshops, or self-study.” Song also emphasizes the importance of remaining open to criticism. “Seek feedback,” she says. “Constructive feedback is essential for improvement. Seek opinions from peers, mentors, or even your target audience. Be open to criticism and use it as a stepping stone to refine your work.”
Song has always wanted to be a designer, having discovered a love of drawing and crafting at a very young age. “As a child, I was always drawn to the arts, finding joy in the simple act of scribbling with a pencil,” she says. Song also draws plenty of inspiration from her native China. “My work is deeply influenced by the country’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant visual traditions,” she says. “Elements like calligraphy, traditional painting, and symbolic colors often inspire my designs, adding depth and cultural context.”
Song also practices what she preaches, pursuing ongoing learning and a wealth of different experiences from which she can draw a creative spark. “I have a passion for journalism, frequently visit art exhibitions, and constantly experiment with new creative projects to understand and engage with the world around me,” she says. “These activities allow me to absorb new ideas and perspectives, which in turn fuel my creativity in design.”
Her philosophy is maintaining a childlike curiosity and openness, allowing her to dream up innovative ways of tackling challenges. “It’s this perspective that drives my passion for visual design and my commitment to using my creativity for meaningful societal contributions,” she says.
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"Selective Eating", Hanyue Song
Song begins every project by fully immersing herself in its context and intended audience. “To build trust and rapport with clients, I always put their audience’s needs first,” she says. “I view design as a way to creatively enhance situations, ensuring that the final product aligns with the client’s vision.”
For Song, the most essential aspect of any design is how it resonates with its intended audience. “A design should not only be aesthetically pleasing but also functional,” she says. “It should convey the intended message clearly and engagingly. This balance of form and function is crucial, as it ensures that the design fulfills its purpose, whether to inform, persuade, or evoke an emotional response.”
Producing incredible and cutting-edge work requires efficient time management, clear boundaries, and a clear distinction between work life and private life. “Regular breaks for recharging are essential, and I enjoy hobbies like baking, gardening, hiking, and traveling,” Song says. “Spending time with loved ones also provides a necessary mental break, helping me maintain a healthy balance between my professional responsibilities and personal life. This approach keeps me energized and creative in my work.”
Song’s professional goals include continuous professional learning, seeking challenging projects, networking, and staying apprised of design trends. “Personally, my growth is fueled by a childlike curiosity and quest to understand the ‘why’ behind things,” she says. “This blend of professional development and my inherent curiosity ensures continuous evolution in my design career.”
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