Xuyuan (River) Hu is an award-winning graphic designer and illustrator based in Madison, Wisconsin. Inspired by Asian and contemporary pop culture, he transforms the everyday into playful, whimsical visual experiences through his distinctive artistic voice.
Driven by a deep interest in the interplay between past and present, River creates work that stirs memory and evokes a sense of nostalgia, inviting viewers to reconnect with familiar stories through a fresh visual lens.
Shop
Instagram
Hello.RiverHu@gmail.com
CV
Education
Design
MFA
Tyler School of Art and Architecture
Studio Arts
Exchange Program
California State University, Long Beach
Awards
Flux Awards
Brand Identity
2023
Wild Card Award
Temple University Graduation Award
2023
Winner
Illustration
Communication Arts
2023
Sliver Award
UCDA Design Awards
2023
Finalist
Hiii Illustration International Competition
2023
Shortlist
Design
Communication Arts
2023
Runner Up Award
Locally Sourced
AIGA Philadephia
2022
Exhibits
Illustration West 61 Exhibition
Society of Illustrators of Los Angeles
2023
“What a Time to Be Alive”
Atelier Art Gallery Philadelphia
2023
“Life in Color”
Thinker Makers Society Philadelphia
2022
Last Updated 07.19.24SELECTED WORK
ZooPhilly is an innovative augmented reality card game designed to bring the historic Philadelphia Zoo to life for children. Featuring twelve illustrated cards representing animals from four distinct exhibits, ZooPhilly leverages cutting-edge AR technology to offer an immersive and educational experience that enhances the traditional zoo visit.
In response to the New York Times article “Michael Pollan Explores the Mind-Altering Plants in His Garden,” I created an illustration interpreting the article’s themes. The garden is depicted as an overgrown, deteriorating space with a melting concrete fountain at its center, symbolizing transformation. This work received a Winner award in the Communication Arts 64th Illustration Annual.
The New CRN is a nonprofit LGBTQ+ organization based in North America, serving Chinese and Chinese American communities. The rebrand elevates CRN’s visual identity while strengthening recognition and cohesion across the organization.
Bao Héo Tang is a modern traditional Chinese medicine brand inspired by the Legend of the White Snake.
Its three signature blends reflect key moments from the tale, combining unique ingredients for both flavor and function. Merging traditional aesthetics with a fresh, contemporary vision, the brand offers a personalized, story-driven approach to holistic wellness.
Each year, Tyler Graphic & Interactive Design MFA students—guided by Professor Kelly Holohan—collaborate on community-focused projects, often partnering with St. James School in Philadelphia. This year, the team is developing a refreshed brand identity for the Husky Hangout Lounge, creating a cohesive visual system that includes a new logo and supporting design elements.