Interview with Atsushi Kobayashi

Atsushi Kobayashi ("AK") interviewed on Tuesday, 28 May.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

AK : I have been in the design industry for 15 years. I started my career as a computer graphic engineer. After four years, I worked as a VFX artist for three years, then I worked as a graphic designer. Integrating all these careers, I am now working as a creative director especially for interactive promotion events.

How did you become a designer?

AK : When I watched the movie "Terminator 2", I decided to become a CG designer. For an elementary school kid, watching that epoch-making movie set my intention. And then I decided to become a computer science major.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

AK : First, I do in-depth research for the theme to create a core concept. Then depending on the concept, I come up with some keywords or key colors that express that concept. When designing, I usually make hand drawing first before using digital tools.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

AK : Brainstorming is the most fun part of the design process to me, because I like discovering new possibilities. They thrills me

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

AK : Concentration, patience, meticulousness.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

AK : I want to work on art pieces which can be exhibited in contemporary museums.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

AK : See a lot of good designs and understand what kind of design you like. And establish your design standard.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

AK : Try new things, find new inspiration and keep myself up to date.

What is your day to day look like?

AK : I test new devices like sensors lasers and motors everyday. Such testing may not seems like designer's work, but through testing I come up with new possibilities for my art works and that I never had before.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

AK : My design and inspirations are often related to technology. So I am always trying to keep up with new gadgets and new experiences.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

AK : Great design stays up-to-date. I assume simplicity and long life matter in every design.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

AK : It is always a tough decision. To be honest, the design is ready. when time is up. So I think scheduling is also a part of creative process.

What is your biggest design work?

AK : I am currently working on upcoming art installation event. It is my first personal work in Los Angeles. The venue is huge building in downtown and other great international artists are also exhibiting their art works. This is a challenging project but I am so excited.

Who is your favourite designer?

AK : It is totally different style from my work, but I really impressed with Zaha Hadid's architectures.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

AK : Currently I am an LA-based artist, but originally I am from Tokyo. I have experienced exciting parts of both cultures and have been deeply affected by them.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

AK : I like collaborating with other artists that have different specialties. I can learn new design perspectives from them, which bring new dimensions to my designs.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

AK : I exhibited at a local art festival in Japan as a volunteer. Local attendees really liked our installation and I enjoyed communicating with them. I am also planning to sponsor art workshops for kids.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

AK : It is a great honor to win the A’ Design Award bronze prize. Design awards such as A’ Design Award validate our efforts, giving an international stage which can provide me more opportunities to create future art works.

Atsushi Kobayashi Profile