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Interview with LiYing Huang |
Home > Designer Interviews > LiYing Huang |
Editor Frank Scott (FS) from DesignPRWire has interviewed designer LiYing Huang (LH) for A’ Design Award and Competition. You can access the full profile of LiYing Huang by clicking here.
FS: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
LH: My journey as an artist began in high school when I realized that creating art was my true love. I was determined to only apply to art schools, and I was fortunate to be accepted by the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), known for its excellent illustration program. During my time at MICA, I discovered my real passion for product design through taking electives. In my foundation year, I created a handful of 3D works, and I fell in love with the process of being hands-on, touching, and feeling the materials. I wished I could stop time in the make-studio so I could keep creating forever. Exploring different electives in college allowed me to learn new skills and discover new ways to express myself. The knowledge I gained from internships was key to creating my award-winning piece, ARCstools, inspired by the stunning Arches National Park. Now, as a proud industrial and graphic designer, I am excited to share my designs with the world and express my unique definition of beauty through my work.
FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
LH: I am an individual designer who created the ARCstool while I was still in school. My work is a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, and I focus on creating designs that are both practical and beautiful.
FS: What is "design" for you?
LH: For me, design is about transforming the unknown into the known, using what we understand to create something new and innovative. It's a process where the designer's unique touch shines through, all while prioritizing the user's experience.
FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
LH: Sports and outdoor equipment.
FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
LH: One of my favorite designs is Shen Wenjiao's modular system for furniture. It's an ingenious concept where there's no pre-made furniture; instead, it consists of various components in different sizes. This allows for endless customization and adaptability, letting users create pieces that perfectly fit their space and needs. It's a brilliant fusion of functionality and creativity.
FS: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
LH: Still waiting for my first full time designer job...
FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
LH: My favorite materials are natural ones, like wood and stone. I believe that nature is the ultimate designer, and all designs inevitably refer back to its beauty and functionality. There's something timeless and perfect about materials that come from the earth.
FS: When do you feel the most creative?
LH: I feel the most creative after spending time in nature and during limitless brainstorming sessions. Nature refreshes my mind and inspires me, while brainstorming without constraints allows my ideas to flow freely.
FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
LH: When designing, I focus on finding the sweet spot between beauty and functionality. It’s essential to create pieces that are not only visually appealing but also practical and user-friendly.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
LH: When I design, I often feel stuck initially. However, by shifting my perspective and looking at things differently, I start to generate new ideas and solutions. This process can be frustrating, but it's also incredibly rewarding when the creative breakthroughs happen.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
LH: When my designs are realized, I feel a deep sense of fulfillment. It's like finding my true audience and knowing that someone will appreciate and connect with my work. It's a rewarding experience that validates my creative efforts.
FS: What makes a design successful?
LH: A design is successful if it resonates with its users. Ultimately, user satisfaction and acceptance are key indicators of success in design. When users appreciate and find value in a design, whether it solves a problem or enhances their experience, it can be considered successful.
FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
LH: A design is successful if it resonates with its users. Ultimately, user satisfaction and acceptance are key indicators of success in design. When users appreciate and find value in a design, whether it solves a problem or enhances their experience, it can be considered successful.
FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
LH: From my perspective, the responsibilities of a designer extend beyond creating aesthetically pleasing products. Designers have a duty to advocate for sustainability and social responsibility. This includes educating companies, users, and the public about the best materials and manufacturing processes that minimize environmental impact. It also involves considering the entire lifecycle of a product, including shipping, disposal, and potential reuse or recycling. Additionally, designers should prioritize ethical considerations, such as fair labor practices for factory workers. By integrating these principles into their work, designers can contribute to a more sustainable and socially conscious future.
FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
LH: The design field is evolving towards a more holistic approach that considers the entire lifecycle of products. There's a growing emphasis on innovation not just in product creation, but also in how products are serviced and sustained over the long term. Designers are increasingly thinking about durability, repairability, and the environmental impact of their creations. This shift reflects a broader awareness of sustainability and the need to minimize waste. Looking ahead, the future of design lies in creating products that not only meet immediate consumer needs but also contribute positively to society and the environment throughout their entire lifecycle.
FS: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
LH: I had my solo exhibition and thesis exhibition at MICA in April and May. It was a great experience showcasing my work within the college community. Moving forward, I am eager to organize an exhibition outside of the college setting, ideally within the next year.
FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
LH: My design inspiration primarily comes from nature—landscapes, plants, and animals. I find immense creativity in observing the natural world and its intricate patterns and forms. To feed my creativity, I often spend time outdoors, immersing myself in natural environments. I also draw inspiration from my own Chinese cultural, which provide different perspectives and ideas that enrich my design process.
FS: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
LH: I would describe my design style as nature-inspired and user-friendly. I'm drawn to creating products that not only harmonize with natural aesthetics but also prioritize usability and functionality for the users. This style developed as I sought to blend my love for nature with my passion for designing practical, easy-to-use items. In my approach to design, I place a strong emphasis on understanding the needs and preferences of the users. I aim to develop products that not only meet their functional requirements but also establish a meaningful connection with them. This involves designing with empathy and considering how the user will interact with and benefit from the final product.
FS: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
LH: I grew up in Nanjing, China, and now I live in the US. I strongly believe that cultural heritage is integral to design, and my Chinese roots significantly influence my creative approach. The pros of incorporating my cultural heritage into my designs include bringing a unique perspective and aesthetic that sets my work apart. It allows me to infuse traditional elements and symbolism that resonate with a broader audience.
FS: How do you work with companies?
LH: About to find out soon :)
FS: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
LH: My suggestion to companies for working effectively with a designer is to prioritize alignment between the designer's skills and the company's needs. Look for a designer who not only has the technical abilities to fulfill project requirements but also demonstrates adaptability and creativity in their portfolio.
FS: Can you talk a little about your design process?
LH: My design process typically begins with brainstorming, where I gather ideas and concepts. Sketching follows, as it helps me visualize and refine initial thoughts on paper. Research plays a crucial role, informing my decisions on materials, technologies, and user needs. Prototyping is where my creativity flourishes the most. This stage transforms 2D ideas into tangible, 3D objects that occupy physical space. It's incredibly rewarding to see designs come to life, testing their functionality and aesthetics in real-world conditions. User testing is pivotal for gathering feedback and refining prototypes based on user interactions and preferences. Finally, CAD (Computer-Aided Design) allows me to finalize and prepare designs for production, ensuring precision and scalability. Throughout this process, prototyping stands out as my favorite stage—an exhilarating moment where ideas evolve into tangible forms, ready to make an impact in the real world.
FS: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
LH: logitech G640 Mouse - It's comfortable and efficient for long hours of work. Xiaomi Magic Portable Charger - keeping devices powered without wires. Charging Wire with Type-C and USB Adaptor Nintendo Switch DJI Action 4 Camera
FS: Can you describe a day in your life?
LH: In my ideal day, I wake up naturally without an alarm and enjoy a leisurely brunch. I then dive into my work, feeling inspired and productive. Later in the evening, I prepare a delicious dinner, taking my time to cook something special. The day ends with me unwinding and watching a movie, savoring the relaxation and creativity throughout. This balance allows me to feel fulfilled and refreshed, making each day enjoyable and rewarding.
FS: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
LH: We are the future! Stay curious and let curiosity guild you!
FS: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
LH: we get to express our creativity, develop a strong personal style, and are often surrounded by fun, inspiring people. On the downside, there's an expectation to consistently have good taste and maintain a strong personality.
FS: What is your "golden rule" in design?
LH: Failure is part of the design.
FS: What skills are most important for a designer?
LH: sketching and prototyping
FS: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
LH: Pen and Sharpie, Ruler, Hands. Software: Programs like Adobe Creative Suite, Fusion 360, and Keyshot for digital design and CAD modeling.
FS: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
LH: Set a plan for days or week what should be done.
FS: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
LH: I enjoy designing sports and outdoor products the most because I have a personal passion for these activities.
FS: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
LH: Open to FULL TIME WORK!!!
FS: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
LH: I’m currently working on an exciting project called CampCraze. It's an innovative camping cookware set designed specifically for car campers. The set features a versatile 8" frypan, 3.5L and 5L pots with silicone lids, and removable handles for compact storage. Unique elements include multifunctional cupbowls, heat-resistant silicone handles, and the GreaseGlider for efficient cleaning. In the ideal future, I envision a retail store where campers can pick and customize their own sets, creating a personalized and convenient outdoor cooking experience. This project is perfect for nature enthusiasts who value both convenience and efficiency in their camping gear.
FS: How can people contact you?
LH: Email: liyinghuang33@gmail.com IG: _liying_Huang_
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
A’ Design Award and Competitions grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award and Competitions cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.
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