Xiaodi Xie, Branding and Digital Designer, and unofficial Mind Alchemist for GoodVibe Studio, believes that curiosity and resilience are the keys to making it in the design world. “Dive into varied disciplines, refine your ideas through constant iteration, and embrace feedback as a powerful tool for growth and transformation,” he says. 

Xie hails from Yunnan, China, but calls New York City his home. In addition to his design work, he’s the co-founder of YarnGi, a home decor brand that specializes in textiles from Yunnan. He credits his hometown as having a significant effect on all aspects of his work. “My design is deeply influenced by the natural harmony and cultural richness of my roots, blending intricate storytelling with modern minimalism,” he says. “By integrating tradition with contemporary aesthetics, I create work that is both meaningful and globally distinctive.”

He’s also deeply driven by creating meaningful experiences that connect people. “Whether through exploring new cultures, diving into storytelling, or appreciating art and architecture, I find inspiration in the way different elements come together to evoke emotion and tell a story,” Xie says. “This curiosity and passion for human connection fuels my creativity and enriches my approach to design.”

This curiosity and desire to connect with stories are evident in this year’s winning work. “I was inspired by my multiple trips to Japan,” Xie says. “Japanese design, with its seamless blend of Eastern and Western influences and a distinct, standout aesthetic, had a profound impact on my creative process. It was this unique fusion of tradition and innovation that shaped my approach to the project.”

His design approach hinges on initial in-depth research on the client and audience, then brainstorming, sketching, and refining through iteration. He also strikes a healthy balance between strategy and creativity by blending them from the outset. “By anchoring creativity in the research and strategic goals, I can ensure that visual decision serves a purpose,” Xie says.