Meet Tae Suh | Graphic Designer

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

Hi Tae, we’d love to hear more about your end-goal, professionally.
While it may seem ambitious given my recent entry into my professional career, my ultimate goal is to become a creative director at a specialized studio (or perhaps even my own!). Ideally, I envision myself contributing to a studio dedicated to branding within the realms of music and entertainment and/or culinary ventures. These areas deeply resonate with me as they evoke profound emotions, whether through melodies or flavors; in other words, I love music and food. I find these fields as the perfect opportunity to experiment with color, form, and typography, using them to convey unique narratives or “brand”. My current professional and personal endeavors navigate these two worlds, and I’ve come to realize my immense fulfillment in this intersection.

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 currently working on an exciting project beyond my full-time job, centered around food. My work often doesn’t tap into my full creative potential, so having the opportunity to delve into thorough research and exercise creative freedom in designing a typeface and developing branding for this project has been incredibly fulfilling. I can’t wait to see it all come together and share it with the world.

Regarding my journey, navigating it has presented many challenges, especially considering my visa’s time constraints in the United States. While there’s a lot of anxiety associated with this limitation, it’s also lit a fire under me to make every moment count. I learned that when faced with circumstances beyond your control, there’s no point in stressing about them; instead, tackle challenges one by one with confidence, trusting that everything will work out. And if it doesn’t, being proactive and having backup plans (Plan B, C, or even D) in place has been helpful.

As for how I got here and became a graphic designer, my initial passion lay in fashion design. FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) was my dream college, and I actively built my portfolio and attended drawing classes to prepare. However, my trajectory shifted when I enrolled in a Yearbook class during high school. The process of designing spreads in InDesign and conceptualizing a “brand” or theme for the Yearbook resonated with me far more than fashion design ever did. This realization ultimately led me down the path of graphic design.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My go-to spot for dining, shopping, and leisurely walks is Ponce City Market. Despite its popularity and tendency to fill up quickly, I appreciate it’s convenience; everything you could imagine is in one place. For a comforting bowl of ramen, I’d visit TonTon Ramen, and Dancing Goats if you want to enjoy some good coffee in a peaceful space. It’s also walking-distance to Piedmont Park, my next recommendation. It’s perfect for people-watching, jogging, biking, playing sports, or enjoying a picnic (especially in the Spring/Fall). Many of my favorite memories in Atlanta are in this park!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I feel deeply grateful to be surrounded with such talented and supportive friends who consistently root for my success and are always open to exploring new creative ventures together. Many of my closest friends also come from diverse backgrounds, much like myself, providing a strong support system as we navigate life’s challenges together. My family has also provided unwavering support, both emotionally and financially, enabling me to pursue my passion for design and establish myself in New York. Their influence and support shaped the person I have become, and for that, I am forever grateful!

Website: https://www.taesuh.me/

Instagram: @taesuhh

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/taeyeongsuh