In a world that is constantly changing and filled with challenges, true growth comes from the courage to step out of one’s comfort zone and explore the unknown. Xue Sun, better known to us as Shelly, her journey is a microcosm of this process, showcasing personal growth, cultural integration, artistic pursuit, and inner maturity. At the age of 15, Shelly left China for the United States alone, a decision that was simple yet filled with dreams and confidence about the future. This marked the beginning of her journey towards self-discovery and realization, a path that not only shaped her career but also enriched her perspective on life.
Shelly’s artistic journey began at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), where she majored in graphic design and consistently earned scholarships due to her excellence. During her undergraduate studies, she not only mastered the basics of design but also learned how to express creativity using different software and styles. She then furthered her studies at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), specializing in illustration and graduating with a GPA of 3.86. Throughout her time at SCAD, she continued to receive scholarships, deepening her understanding and passion for illustration.
One of the key factors to Shelly’s success is her personality. Her enthusiasm and friendliness enabled her to build a wide social network during her studies in the United States. She enjoys sharing learning experiences and hobbies with others, and this open and positive attitude allows her to easily adapt to new environments and cultures. Moreover, her bravery in facing challenges, whether it was coming to the United States alone for high school or striving for excellence in her academic and professional career, has been remarkable.
Through her studies at SCAD and MICA, as well as her relentless exploration, Shelly discovered her greatest passion lies in packaging and advertising design. Her skills are not limited to this; she is proficient in multiple design software and styles, ready to make meaningful contributions with her abilities. Beyond academic achievements, Shelly also gained valuable experience through part-time work at SCAD, which not only allowed her to be financially independent but also enriched her practical skills. As a freelancer, she has collaborated with various clients, learning how to effectively communicate and meet their needs, while also sparking her creative inspiration.
Shelly’s design career extends beyond the commercial realm. She actively participates in charity activities, designing numerous public service advertisements and participating in art charity exhibitions focused on children in China and Los Angeles, demonstrating her commitment to social responsibility. As the chief designer for the Huangshi City Advertising Association in Hubei, China, she was responsible for government and commercial environmental protection billboard projects, integrating her designs into urban settings, including over 300 physical installations at schools, malls, and park entrances.
Throughout her design career, Shelly has received multiple awards and recognitions, including the 2023 NEW YORK TOP International Illustration Individual Award, MUSE Design Award Team Award, European Product Design Award Team Award, Hong Kong Contemporary Design Awards Bronze Prize, and the “Color of Resilience” certificate from the Southern California Hospice Foundation. These accolades further demonstrate the positive impact of design on society. Her achievements and projects not only prove her design capabilities but also showcase her social responsibility and pursuit of a better world.
Looking forward, Shelly hopes to continue leveraging her design talents for more social welfare projects. She plans to initiate more projects centered on social responsibility in her design studio, aiming to drive continuous improvement in society and the environment through creativity and art. At the same time, she hopes to inspire more young designers to engage in charitable work, collectively creating a more beautiful and sustainable future.
Published By: Aize Perez
