GRAPHICS
Creating images on a paper was a gateway to unleash my boundless imagination. Inspired by my father, who painted mesmerizing watercolors on silk canvases, I marveled at how a simple stroke of his Chinese brush could bring forth a graceful bird or a blooming flower. Although I wasn’t much of a talker as a child, my mind brimmed with vivid characters and captivating scenarios. Pursuing my passions, I pursued a double major in business and graphic design at the University of Hawaii. Graphic design classes taught by visiting professors from Harvard only fueled my ambition, leading me to pursue a graphic design degree at the prestigious Art Center College of Design. It was there that I delved into the realm of 3D drawing, which naturally led me to the realm of computer graphics. Whether it’s designing in 2D or 3D, for print, web, or virtual platforms, the thrill of creativity never fades for me. It’s a constant source of excitement and fulfillment.
The Ritz Carlton booklet design project required in-depth research into the historical architecture of San Francisco’s iconic buildings. The goal was to ensure that recipients wouldn’t discard it shortly after receiving it but would instead leave it on their coffee table. The intention was to elevate it from the typical fate of real estate marketing materials, often swiftly tossed in recycle bins. I took pride in this finished booklet because it was the first and only one I had designed. I even appreciated the smooth weighted paper stock and its tactile feel in my hands. It was rewarding to learn that this booklet significantly contributed to a noticeable increase in the realtor’s business.
Through my work at Passion Voice, I was referred to Ruth Kahn, founder of Musica Marin. Its mission was to showcase classical chamber music held in stunning private residences throughout the Bay Area. The enchanting allure of Musica Marin events was heightened by Ruth’s connections with world-renowned musicians from Julliard and the San Francisco Symphony. I felt privileged when Ruth entrusted me with the design of the monthly programs.
My earlier design experience was in advertising and marketing design. I continue to enjoy manipulating typefaces and images, striving to achieve the ideal balance and emphasis to effectively convey the intended message to the audience.
Stefan Sagmeister was the graphic designer for the Rolling Stones album, Bridges to Babylon. He contracted illustrators to generate alternative visuals that would be on the album cover as well as animated graphics projected on the screen behind the band during a concert. Unfortunately, Mick Jagger did not select my proposal.
