Meet Longfei Zhang | Visual Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Longfei Zhang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Longfei, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m from Sichuan where Panda lives, China. I moved to Singapore, a tropical city-state in South East Asia, to study at 19 years old. And now I work and live in Singapore. So both living experiences have shaped who I am today deeply. My interest in art and design really started at a young age. And thanks to my parents, they like to bring me to the theatre as a family activity. Traveling is another one. Wherever we went, we like to take photos. I began to shoot with a toy camera that I got from KFC. Not until I went to Singapore did I experience culture shock and start to realize my own identity. I started to read books and watch documentaries about history, psychology, mythology, etc… I think it made me more skeptical and analytical when I’m doing my work.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’m a motion graphics designer. And currently, I’m doing a creative directing role in a motion studio called Genesis Motion Design in Singapore. What sets me apart is that I am more analytical about design with my unique background. As I believe every designer has a unique approach due to their distinct background. I am most proud when our work has made some impact on others. How I got to where I am professionally is really through my passion for moving pictures, which is a very effective way to tell a story. However, It is not an easy path especially in Singapore where the majority would choose a more stable and corporate career, like a doctor, or banker. Although It’s still hard to change people’s perceptions, I still believe what I do can help others to achieve their goals and can make a difference in society. Just stick to your plan and listen to your heat. You don’t need a perfect plan to start off, as all paths will eventually lead to the right destination. I want the world to know that we as designers are all unique and can make an impact on the world like engineers and doctors.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Singapore is a garden city where you can find lots of things to do and great food to eat. If they prefer outdoor activities, I’d recommend visiting Singapore Botanic Garden during weekdays. It is one of three gardens to be honoured as a UNESCO WOrld Hertitage Site. I’ll also take them to Macritchie Reservoir in the morning where they can do hiking in a real tropical forest within the city area. Sentosa, an island resort off Singapore’s southern coast, is another great place to visit. We can plan a day trip to go there and visit Universal Studio. WHen they are hungrey, I will take them to some of the resteraunts at Chinatown for authentic Chiese food. At night, I’ll take them to Clarke Quay or Marina Bay area for a drink, at the same time explore the grand cityscape of Singapore CBD on a city cruise.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to thank my parents to provide so many interesting and unique life experiences that form who I am today. And I want to thank my wife, Jiawen, who has always been supportive when I feel negative. Last but not least, I want to dedicate the shoutout to Charles Lee, who is my school mentor and has opened up my mind as a designer.

Website: behance.net/longfei

Instagram: longfeidesign