Irie Chow
Q What do you do?
“I am a Digital Designer & Art Director with over 10 years of experience, recently pivoting to freelancing full-time after a long career in creative/design agencies.”
My expertise spans web design, branding, visual design and concept development. Because I have been in both small and large agencies and worked with small businesses and global brands, I can seamlessly step in at any stage of the branding process—from initial strategy and developing visual concepts to designing identities, creating brand guidelines, art direction, production, and crafting compelling 360° campaigns and brand/digital experiences.
Q What steps did you take to get to where you are now?
After completing my design studies at university, I embarked on my career as a junior designer and progressed to the role of Art Director at different creative agencies and studios. Throughout my journey, I've had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed clients, including global brands such as Nike, Diageo, Lay's, BMW, MINI, NISSAN, Infiniti, City National Bank, AT&T, DTV, QuickBooks, and 1800 contacts. With over a decade of experience working with both large and small agencies, I made the transition to full-time freelancing.
Q How do you stand out in your field?
My creative process and approach.
I intertwine storytelling, design thinking, innovative solutions, and curiosity to craft captivating visual aesthetics, brand identities, and dynamic digital experiences. These creations not only address business challenges and add value to clients but also leave a lasting impact on their brands.
My creative process involves: A) shining a spotlight on my client's narrative; B) seeking inspiration from the intricacies of daily life, along with architecture, literature, posters, films, and music. This allows me to forge a deeper emotional connection with audiences, whether it's in the realm of branding projects, 360 campaigns, or web/digital experiences.
Q What are you working on right now?
I recently wrapped up a web design project for an artist based in Germany and am about to kick off a 360° branding, web project for a lifestyle brand.
Q What’s your style?
My personal style is a blend of editorial, clean, edgy, and chaotic elements. I am passionate about harmonizing the worlds of art and design.
Regarding projects, I firmly believe that each project merits a distinct aesthetic solution and process rather than conforming to a predefined style.
Q Out of all your slashies, which one do you wish you could do more often?
Art direction for videography.
I shoot and edit videos on the side for fun. I dream of having opportunities and working on mini films one day.
Q What is frustrating you right now?
Being an introvert, it takes a lot of mental battery for me to get out and meet new people.
Q If you could hire someone for $20/hour, what would you have them do to make your day easier?
A fancy sesh of deep tissue back, shoulder, scalp massage.
Q What do you wish you could have told yourself, when, and why?
Trust your gut, everything is going to be okay.
Q If you could talk to an expert to gain more insight on something, what would it be about?
1:1s with accountant.
Q What kind of opportunities/projects are you looking for?
— Art Direction
— Branding
— Digital/Web Design
— Concept Development
I love to work on projects with beauty, skincare, food/beverages, home, wellness, lifestyle. But also open to all the possibilities and adventures!
Q Describe your ideal job/client/collaboration.
Clients who get the value of good communication and are open to collaborating in a way that lets me bring my expertise and ideas to the table. And I’m constantly seeking opportunities with artists, brands and entrepreneurs to explore the intersection of creativity and innovation, always striving to elevate each project beyond the expected.
Q: What is your rate?
I quote by project rather than hourly rate. The budget can vary based on the project’s scope, complexity, and specific needs. I’m flexible and happy to align it with your goals and timeline. Let’s connect and figure it out together!
Q How should someone approach you about working together?
Feel free to e-mail me at info@iriechow.com or just send me DM via my IG @iriechow.
Q Who is a creative you admire?
Eric Hu: @_erichu
Yellow Nose Studio @yellownosestudio
Piebee Hsu @piebeehsu
Q Oh! and… how do you stay creative?
Travels, music, movies, food, exhibitions, natural
This member profile was originally published in September 2024.