Interview with Vanja Vizner

Vanja Vizner ("VV") interviewed on Saturday, 11 January.

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

VV : I have been working as a designer and artist for over 10 years, specializing in multimedia and visionary art. My journey began in Croatia, where I first experimented with drawing, graffiti, and digital tools like Photoshop. Over time, this evolved into a career that allowed me to work in a variety of mediums, from graphic design to intricate, spiritually inspired artworks. My designs have been featured in major exhibitions, such as the Shenzhen International Industrial Design Fair in China, Museo del Design in Italy, the Basteha Packaging Design Biennial in Iran, and the Modem Festival in Croatia. One of my proudest moments came in 2021 when I won the Bronze A' Design Award for my piece Trinity, which represents the harmonious interplay of masculinity, femininity, and humanity. My philosophy as a designer is deeply influenced by my spiritual journey, with each project reflecting my growth and understanding of world philosophies and the human experience. I've had the privilege of collaborating with various clients and participating in cultural festivals like Fuinneamh and Modem, and contributing to exhibitions across Europe and beyond

How did you become a designer?

VV : My journey into design was driven by curiosity, passion, and self-discovery. Growing up in Croatia, I was always engaged in creative activities like doodling robots and experimenting with graffiti. At 13, I got my hands on a book about Macromedia Flash, which opened the door to digital design. I started creating simple dress-up games and futuristic websites, which sparked my interest in how design could combine functionality with creative expression. As I grew older, I started using Photoshop to design logos, album covers, and T-shirts for BMX and snowboard communities. These small projects showed me how design could connect people and ideas. I continued to pursue design because it felt like a natural form of self-expression and a way to make a meaningful impact. What truly drove me to design was an internal desire to explore the unknown, grow through the creative process, and translate abstract ideas into tangible visuals. The influence of graffiti culture taught me the importance of structure, expression, and leaving a mark, while my elementary school art teacher and my father's love for photography further encouraged my creative pursuits.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

VV : When designing, I prioritize emotional impact, technical quality, and storytelling. I believe the most effective designs evoke a powerful emotional response, whether through visual appeal or the deeper meaning behind the work. The technical aspects of design, such as precision, balance, and harmony, are also important in ensuring the work resonates both aesthetically and functionally. Finally, I always integrate a story or philosophy into my designs, drawing on my personal and spiritual journey. I rely on both digital tools and traditional methods to bring my creations to life. While my design work has traditionally been more focused on static visuals, I am increasingly exploring multimedia projects. I use software like Affinity Photo, Photoshop, and Cinema 4D to refine my ideas, but I also value working with hands-on materials. I often start my process by experimenting with various forms and concepts, then transition to digital tools for refinement and rendering. This blend of traditional and digital techniques allows me to capture the depth and essence of the stories I aim to tell through my work.