Interview with Christine Adel

Christine Adel ("CA") interviewed on Monday, 16 November.

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

CA : Working exclusively as a designer since 2012 with a great passion for lettering (especially Arabic). Had the privilege to work in some of the biggest global advertising agencies like McCann and Leo Burnett Egypt, where I got to learn much about teamwork, strategy, production and above all how to negotiate with clients.

How did you become a designer?

CA : After graduating from school I wasn't particularly sure I had what it takes, but I thought to give it a try. I applied for the faculty of Applied Sciences and Arts at the German University in Cairo and to my surprise I was accepted. Later on I actually performed among the best students and graduated with high honors, which is something that boosted my confidence of course and gave me alot of motivation to continue. Back in Uni I found many passions in design, so I knew this is what I need to keep on doing.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

CA : I always start by hand drawn sketches in my sketchbook. depending on the project, but many are simple pencil sketches. I often choose a different tool (watercolors or collages) to explore different textures and feelings. When I am satisfied I would start digitizing (mostly using Adobe Illustrator).

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

CA : Any brief is accompanied by fear: will I nail it, will I produce something that answers the brief and is fresh and new at the same time? I then get absorbed in experimenting and sketching. The best feeling is when experimenting leads to unexpected results.

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

CA : I believe fast observations and the ability to filter my visual environment were always a helpful skill that I had. I also learned to backup my design through valid arguments and research, this is a skill that I learned from my german education at the German School .

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

CA : In the future I want to explore many things: I want to be more involved in the research and design field of Arabic typography, as I also want to invest more time and education in children related designs and projects, in particularly children who have learning difficulties and challenges.

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

CA : Designers should never be afraid to explore different fields and gain exposure. I recommend that young designers don't settle too early and find a comfort zone, but rather dare to explore more and more.

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

CA : Honestly I cannot call myself successful, not yet at least.

What is your day to day look like?

CA : My day to day is currently constantly filled with interruptions due to my life as a mother. But I learned to be faster and use all the in-between times to work. My day is like a race to achieve my work. On just lucky days, I get to sit down more and read design news, but this is not my usual for now.

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

CA : I care alot about design trends and like my work to have a different essence each time, as I personally get bored. However being a mother of 2 it is sometimes too fast to keep up.

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

CA : A good design fulfills the purpose it was designed for, however a great design exceeds the expectations and sets new standards for future designs.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

CA : In my opinion there is always room for improvement. I never designed anything and felt that this was the end, maybe it was the deadline or the launch, but definitely not the end.

What is your biggest design work?

CA : My biggest design work so far is Zagazoo Busy bag.

Who is your favourite designer?

CA : Reza Abdini & Homa Delvaray who both happen to be Iranian. I find a certain charm in Iranian calligraphy and designs.

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

CA : Design is a job that doesn't stop when your workday ends, but it tends to continue and come home, to bed and even in the shower with you. I prefer to work outdoors, but it isn't always easy with a screen and wacom. So if this isn't an option, I would settle for an indoor area with a big window and nice atmosphere.

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

CA : Lately I have been working either alone or together with my sister and partner in our small startup. I tend to believe that I need some time alone to design and meditate while designing, but it is always great to brainstorm with others.

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

CA : Each year I try to contribute to (at least) one pr bono project, not just to feel good or helpful, but also because many of these have really impactful outcomes and come with their own interesting challenges and therefore interesting solutions.

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

CA : I feel honored to be amongst the winning designers. Taking part gave me confidence to try more and showed me some aspects of what makes a good design even better. Not only do I benefit from the exposure, but also having fellow designers to be inspired from and a drive to do more and better in the future.

Christine Adel Profile