Han Meng, a product designer originating from China, loves living in New York City.
She works as a senior product designer at the 21GRAMS agency, and has worked with clients like Pfizer, Axsome, Immunovent, and Dermervant.
With a background in the creative field, she initially pursued a career as an art director before transitioning into UX/UI design, specializing in experience design, visual design, prototyping, and animation.
Attending the School of Visual Arts in New York initially brought her to the city, but it also nurtured her artistic pursuits. Her affinity for creativity blossomed at a young age, sparked by her early interest in drawing. As she matured, this interest evolved into a deep-seated passion for design, recognizing its capacity to tackle challenges while also serving as her favorite pastime. Following her studies, Han ventured into the realm of advertising, assuming the role of an art director. Within this position, she collaborated closely with team members holding diverse responsibilities throughout the agency. It was during this tenure that Han unearthed her true calling in digital design, ultimately pivoting towards user-centric product design.
She speaks to VIP Travel Mag about her favorite places in New York City, and where to get the best chinese food.
What drew you to New York City?
Han Meng: I originally came here for school, but I ended up staying because this place has the best resources for both design and career development. It’s not all work, though. I spend my free time exploring galleries and museums, indulging in fine dining with friends, catching shows at theaters, and stumbling upon street art just by wandering around the streets. It’s a fun and dynamic city, brimming with energy and diversity. Coming from another country, I found it incredibly comforting to meet people from all corners of the globe here. Strangely enough, this mix of cultures and the vibrant urban life make me feel right at home. It’s like the world comes to me, and each day is a new adventure right where I am.
Would you live anywhere else in the world and why?
I’ve always dreamed of living in different parts of the world, spending a year in Paris, then maybe a year in Tokyo. With the shift toward remote work becoming more accepted by employers after the pandemic, I’m hopeful that I’ll be able to work and travel simultaneously on a regular basis in the future. Imagine seeing the world and experiencing life as the locals do – that would definitely enrich my understanding of the world. I also think this could give me a deeper insight into design. By immersing myself in various cultures, I can see firsthand how different environments and lifestyles influence design choices. It’s an exciting prospect, and I’m really looking forward to making it happen.
What has been your experience living internationally?
It’s both challenging and exciting, that’s for sure! At first, I experienced quite a bit of cultural shock. Everything was different—from the language to the way people greet each other, not to mention the working culture. But, I really enjoy immersing myself in different cultures and gaining new perspectives. I truly relish the journey from confusion to understanding. Staying curious is definitely the key. It keeps things interesting,
How have you benefited from being a world traveler?
Stepping out of your comfort zone is key, and that includes venturing out of the city you live in once in a while. Changing your surroundings doesn’t just offer a new perspective; it also refreshes your viewpoint when you return to your own city. I find that sticking to a routine too often can make my thinking a bit narrow, which really isn’t great for my creativity. Heading to a new place and chatting with the locals, I feel like different parts of my brain get a good workout. It’s like giving your mind a mini-vacation from the usual grind, and trust me, it can work wonders!
What do you love about China?
The blend of architecture and natural scenery in China is absolutely mesmerizing. It’s such a vast country with each city and countryside offering its own unique charm that’s definitely
worth exploring. And let’s not forget about the Chinese food! I personally think of food as a form of art that demands true craftsmanship. In China, we don’t just eat with our mouths but with our eyes and noses too. We appreciate the color, smell, and taste of our dishes, and each one carries a rich history that speaks volumes about the local culture.
What museum do you love in New York?
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is just an unbeatable experience. Every time I visit, there’s always something new and different to see. It’s one of those places where you could spend countless hours there, and still feel like you’ve barely scratched the surface of all the art there is to see. It’s a never-ending treasure trove that keeps on giving, and I just can’t get enough of it.
What are your recommendations for under the radar places to enjoy art in New York?
Honestly, just taking a stroll through the city can be an eye-opener. It’s that simple! Take a moment to appreciate the architecture and the graffiti; New York’s streets are practically an outdoor gallery. And don’t just stop there—observe the people around you. New Yorkers have a unique sense of style that’s almost like a personal art exhibit. Everyone here expresses themselves in such fashion-forward and distinctive ways. It’s like the entire city is a canvas, showcasing a vibrant mix of creativity and individuality. So, keep your eyes open as you wander—art in New York is everywhere!
What is your favorite Chinese restaurant in New York City?
A great question, also a tough one. One thing surprises me is that some Chinese food I have here is almost authentic, like what you have in China. I love spicy food, so restaurants like Mala Project and Mountain Food are both my go-to places for Sichuan cuisine. Also, everything in Flushing is amazing, and they are cheap.
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