2025 Hot New Things: Vivian Doan, Auckland University of Technology
Each summer Design Assembly profiles a selection of the top graduates from the best Art and Design Schools in Aotearoa New Zealand. We welcome these talented emerging professionals to our industry, learn about their passions, final projects, developing creative confidence and ambitions for the future.
Today we speak with Vivian Doan who recently graduated from the Bachelor of Communication Design at Auckland University of Technology (AUT). Find out more about tertiary study options across Aotearoa New Zealand on our Design Schools page.
Tell us a bit about yourself:
Kia Ora! I’m Vivian—a young creative born in Vietnam, raised in Wellington, and now calling Auckland home. My multicultural journey has fueled my creativity and given me a deep appreciation for diverse perspectives.
I love bringing ideas to life through versatile and meaningful design. Whether it’s crafting a brand story, designing impactful visuals, or creating something entirely new, I’m all about creating work that feels intentional and really connects with people. I strive to focus on being intentional with every decision, ensuring each project is both unique and resonant. Creating work that truly connects is at the heart of my design style. Every project is an opportunity to explore, experiment, and collaborate. I’m always open to fresh ideas and committed to maintaining a high level of craft in everything I create. The love for culture and understanding different perspective really inspires my love for art and is what makes me wanting to pursue design. As a recent graduate, I’m excited to see where this journey will take me. I’m excited to learn, explore, and embracing every opportunity to grow and create along the way.
What was the focus of your graduating project?
“Nam Type” is an autoethnographic study and collection of Vietnamese letterforms from the French colonial period. The project visually examines themes of cultural ancestry, tradition, and identity through typographic and editorial design. The result is a decorative collection of 29 Vietnamese letterforms with diacritics, inspired by historical initial letters and illuminated manuscripts. Just as concrete hardens and solidifies over time, the project reflects the strength and resilience of Vietnam. The people have endured colonialism, war, and significant societal changes, yet their cultural identity remains intact and continues to evolve.
The creation of Nam Type has been an emotional, challenging, and genuinely transformative journey. What started as a tribute to my veteran grandfather has evolved into a deep exploration of archival materials that have shaped Vietnam’s history and visual language. I’m incredibly grateful to be part of a culture and nation defined by resilience and rich cultural identities. Through my appreciation for typography, I aim to capture and convey Vietnam’s enduring spirit and vibrant essence, sharing the unspoken stories and materials that reflect my roots with respect and depth. I hope to inspire readers to appreciate their cultural heritage and honor their ancestors, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and uncover the hidden stories and materials that often fade from memory.
What did you choose to study Bachelor of Communication Design at AUT?
AUT has always been known for having an outstanding Design and Creative Arts department, and I’ve been fortunate to experience it firsthand. The university has provided me with incredible opportunities—especially the chance to collaborate and be surrounded by creative people, both peers and lecturers, for which I am truly grateful. AUT has also opened doors for me to engage with industry professionals, and receiving feedback from individuals I never imagined I could approach has been an incredible honour. My love for design has blossomed here, thanks to the inspiring people I’ve met along the way. This experience has taught me valuable lessons about myself and my capabilities, pushing me to accomplish things I once thought were beyond reach.
In addition to that, AUT’s amazing facilities have played a significant role in my growth. I’ve had the chance to bind my first book, pour my own concrete, and create my own packaging projects. I’ve learned so much, not just from books, but through hands-on experience in the labs and studios I’ve worked in. The technicians have been incredibly helpful and supportive, guiding me and many other students in bringing our visions to life. I am extremely grateful for all the support and opportunities I’ve received here.
What did you enjoy most about the programme?
The Design Research class at AUT was definitely one of my favourites. I’ve learned that creating goes hand in hand with researching, and I’m grateful that the program offered this course, allowing us to deeply explore and understand every contextual aspect of our projects. Spending time in these classes has really reinforced the fundamental design principle of intentionality, emphasising the importance of rigour and consistency in my work. This has since become my core design value. Even as I transition into the industry and work on commercial projects, I’ll always believe that understanding the history and social context behind every brief is essential for achieving the best design outcomes—ones that are not only visually appealing but also rich in meaningful, contextual messages. This will always be at the heart of my design process.
What was your biggest challenge while studying?
Imposter syndrome! I’m sure every designer has experienced this at some point in their creative journey. Working on a project for weeks or months, staring at the same screen, obsessing over every detail—like getting the kerning and tracking of the title just right has often led me to second-guess my entire design process. Sometimes, that little monster called imposter syndrome creeps in and starts to haunt me. But I’ve learned that taking a breather, getting fresh feedback from peers, lecturers, and industry professionals has really helped me push through.
I was fortunate to connect with people outside the academic environment through portfolio reviews at studios, Design Assembly events, and other creatives from different departments, which gave me a fresh perspective on my projects. These conversations helped me step back, view my work from a different angle, and gain new insights. Learning to trust myself, listen to my instincts, and embrace feedback—while also finding ways to relax, like taking coffee breaks or going for a walk has been essential in overcoming imposter syndrome.
Who (or what) inspired you to pick design as a career path?
I remember growing up with a deep interest in creative arts. I loved drawing and painting, but I also enjoyed sneaking onto my brother’s computer to play with digital coloring books. When my parents decided to open a restaurant in Year 10, our family friend, Sam Blenkiron, who is now the director of Mirage Visual Limited, a creative production agency—played a huge role in designing the restaurant’s identity system. Having the opportunity to meet Sam and see his work firsthand while I was choosing my school subjects really inspired me to pursue a career in design.
In Year 12 and 13, I chose design, and photography as my main subjects, and that’s where it all began. Thank you, Sam, for taking the time to talk to that little Year 10 girl and inspiring her to trust in herself and follow her passion for art. I’ll forever be grateful for you!
Who is your favourite designer?
had the privilege of working with Philip Kim, a talented typographer and designer currently at Designworks, on my grad project, Nam Type. Philip’s graduation project, Wai Horotiu Display, was a huge inspiration for my own work. Beyond his impressive skills, he dedicated several hours to workshop with me, providing invaluable guidance. Philip’s dedication was truly inspiring—during the stressful final stages of Nam Type, he consistently checked in on me, offering both support and encouragement. Every feedback session with him was incredibly helpful in refining my letterforms, and his willingness to invest time in my project made me truly appreciate the lack of barriers between experienced designers and students in Aotearoa’s welcome design community.
What is next for you?
I’ve been fortunate to gain valuable industry experience during my final year at AUT, which has significantly shaped my skills and deepened my passion for design. My current summer roles include working as a Junior Designer at Design Assembly, where I have the opportunity to collaborate with the amazing Louise and her team—Natalie and Kate. Additionally, taking on freelance work has been my first step into the industry. I’m also excited to seek out opportunities to work in design studios or creative agencies in the upcoming year, and I can’t wait to continue creating and meeting new people.
Working alongside Louise and Design Assembly, who are dedicated to improving the design industry, has been truly inspiring. In the future, my aspiration is to follow in Louise’s footsteps, inspiring others, bringing designers together, and creating a community where there are no barriers between newly graduated designers and experienced professionals.
Where can we see more of your work?
Check out my portfolio to see more of my work. I’m always open to connecting! Feel free to reach out:
Email: viviandoan31@gmail.com
Phone: +64 22 410 8810
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vivian-doann
Let’s collaborate or chat—I’d love to hear from you!
