We’re very pleased to introduce to you, Coffee Club members, Yucen Yao, our new Fine Arts and Graphic Design Barista. It’s hard enough finding a qualified poet, fiction writer or audio arts barista, but finding a creator with the talent and skills to curate contemporary arts has been the toughest. We’ve had to go without one for several years. Now you can meet her.
Yucen was raised in Nanchang, China. She took her bachelor’s degree in visual communication at Guangzhou University. Her parents encouraged her to follow her dreams in the arts, and she came to the United States to earn her master’s degree in graphic design at the prestigious California Institute of the Arts in Santa Clarita. Her career has rapidly taken off: she’s been interviewed in several LA zines, one saying she is a “rising star.” Her accolades (far too many to list here) include brand design, graphic design, illustration, logo design, packaging design, print design, user interface and user experience design (UI&UX), visual design, web design and videography. Be sure to visit her Instagram page and her website.
Left: Yucen displays her Eco Garden Tooklt, handmade, illustrated books and cards that explore American lawns and native plants.
The following remarks are from Yucen’s interview with Bold Journey:
“My work spans various settings, including branding studios, creative agencies, and even a food and beverage company. I’ve also freelanced for clients in different industries and taught kids to paint and explore creative art projects.”
Her advice for other creators: “To develop this (career-building) skill, start by taking small steps. Reach out to classmates, professors, or professionals in your field for advice or collaboration opportunities. Practice sharing your ideas and be prepared for both acceptance and rejection. Each interaction builds confidence and opens doors to new possibilities.”
Yucen Yao stands beside her original art poster of the Chinese Zodiac
Welcome to The Fictional Cafe, Yucen. We’re just plain old thrilled to have you on board to share your work and encourage your fellow artists and artisans to exhibit their work as well. Please, ring the gong!
Featured image photo credit: Tian Liu
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Welcome, welcome, welcome! Excited to get to know you and your art!
Glad to have you on board Yucen! I know you’ll be an excellent addition to the team!
Thank you Malik! Can’t wait to work with you!