Interview with Qichao An

Qichao An ("QA") interviewed on Monday, 26 June.

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

QA : As a brand designer, I have over 10 years of experience in brand planning and design. During this time, I have gained extensive industry knowledge and practical experience. I have worked with renowned companies and collaborated with clients from various industries, providing them with brand design and management services. Although I cannot mention specific company or client names, I have worked with multinational corporations, small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as startup companies. Throughout my career, I have strived for innovation and achieved notable accomplishments in the field of design. I am honored to have received recognition through more than 50 design awards, which validate my professional abilities and creativity. In terms of education, I have received specialized training in brand design and hold relevant degrees or certifications in the field. These educational backgrounds have provided me with a solid theoretical foundation and practical skills, enabling me to better understand client needs and deliver professional solutions. In summary, through years of experience and collaborations with diverse clients, I am able to combine expertise and creativity to provide clients with unique and effective brand design and management services.

How did you become a designer?

QA : Becoming a designer has been a lifelong aspiration and pursuit for me. My interest in art, architecture, and design runs deep, propelling me to choose this career path. My passion for design originated from a quest for beauty and a desire for creativity. From a young age, I was deeply influenced by the environment, architecture, and artistic works around me. I enjoyed observing the forms, colors, and structures of things and how they connected with people's emotions and experiences. The journey to becoming a designer was a gradual process. I chose to undergo specialized training in brand design and obtained relevant degrees or certifications, which provided me with a solid foundation. These educational backgrounds helped me delve into design principles, market trends, and the importance of brand management. In addition to formal education, I continuously honed my skills through practical experience. I actively participated in various design projects, collaborating with other designers, learning, and applying best practices. These experiences allowed me to better understand clients' needs and fostered my ability to creatively solve problems. Throughout my journey to become a designer, I have been influenced and inspired by many individuals. I have encountered outstanding designers and mentors who have motivated me to strive for continuous improvement and taught me how to integrate design with business goals for more meaningful outcomes. Ultimately, it is my intrinsic drive that led me to become a designer. My pursuit of aesthetics and creativity, along with a passion for brands and user experiences, are significant factors in choosing this profession. Initially, I was captivated by the power of art, architecture, and design to transform lives, convey emotions, and inspire imagination. These factors collectively propelled me to take the first steps towards becoming a designer and continue learning and growing in this field.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

QA : In my design work, I focus on three key aspects: strategic thinking, creative problem-solving, and emotional connection. 1. Strategic Thinking: Throughout the design process, I prioritize strategic thinking. This involves thorough research into the client's brand objectives, target audience, and competitive landscape, enabling me to provide design solutions that are strategically aligned. I strive to understand the client's core values and ensure that the design work reflects their brand positioning and vision. 2. Creative Problem-Solving: As a designer, creative problem-solving is at the core of my design process. I emphasize discovering novel and unique solutions to meet clients' needs and challenges. I prefer employing diverse thinking approaches, combining forward-thinking design trends with innovative design methods to deliver creative and effective design solutions. 3. Emotional Connection: I believe that design should establish an emotional connection with users. Therefore, I make an effort to understand the audience's emotions, expectations, and values and incorporate these elements into the design. By utilizing design elements such as color, shape, and texture, I aim to create designs that are attention-grabbing, resonating, and leave a lasting impression. In my design process, I rely on the application of digital tools and the latest technologies. They provide me with a more efficient and precise design workflow, aiding in generating creative and visually appealing outcomes. I am proficient in using computer-aided design and rendering tools to quickly visualize design ideas and facilitate effective communication and feedback with clients. For new projects, I typically conduct in-depth research and analysis to understand the client's industry and market trends. I closely collaborate with clients to establish clear project goals and expectations, ensuring open communication and feedback throughout the design process. Subsequently, I engage in a series of creative exploration, sketching, and concept development, working in partnership with clients to develop the final design solution. My design focus lies in strategic thinking, creative problem-solving, and emotional connection. I leverage digital tools and the latest technologies to enhance the efficiency and creativity of the design process, while employing physical and computer-aided design and rendering methods based on project requirements. For new projects, I emphasize research and close collaboration with clients to ensure the design meets their expectations and achieves the desired objectives.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

QA : During the design process, I experience various emotions and feelings. First and foremost, I feel excitement and passion. The initial stage of design is filled with the joy of exploration and imagination. My mind is brimming with endless possibilities, and the sparks of creativity ignite a sense of exhilaration. As the design progresses, I also encounter challenges and pressure. Confronted with complex problems and requirements, I strive to find the best solutions, requiring focused attention and creative thinking. This process involves stages of reflection, experimentation, and iteration, demanding patience and concentration. As I approach the final design outcome, a sense of satisfaction and achievement emerges. Witnessing my design gradually transform from concept to reality and having a positive impact on clients and users generates a deep sense of fulfillment. Additionally, collaboration and interaction in the design process bring me joy and a sense of fulfillment. Working with clients and team members, sharing ideas, exchanging opinions, and collaborating to drive the project's development create a pleasant atmosphere of collaboration and creative synergy. Design brings me enjoyment and a sense of fulfillment. From the initial sparks of creativity to the realization of the design, each stage holds its unique charm. Design is a channel for creative expression and unleashing my ideas, translating them into tangible works. Moreover, witnessing the positive impact of my design on people, meeting the needs of clients, and engaging in the collaborative process of creation with others all contribute to my enjoyment and sense of fulfillment in design.

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

QA : My background has played a crucial role in shaping me as a designer. There are valuable non-design skills that are essential for designers, artists, and architects: 1. Communication skills: Effective communication is vital for designers to engage with clients, team members, and stakeholders. Being able to articulate ideas clearly, understand the needs and feedback of others, and convey design concepts and solutions effectively during the collaborative process are key to achieving success. 2. Project management abilities: Design processes involve time management, resource allocation, and task execution. Strong project management skills enable designers to organize workflows, maintain control over schedules and quality, and effectively address challenges and changes that may arise in a project. 3. Problem-solving capabilities: Design often presents various problems and obstacles. Having strong problem-solving skills empowers designers to seek innovative solutions, overcome difficulties, and maintain composure and adaptability when faced with challenges. In addition to these non-design skills, I emphasize the following key skills that have helped me become a successful designer: 1. Learning ability: Continuous learning and the pursuit of new knowledge are vital driving forces for progress in the design field. By constantly updating my skills and knowledge, staying informed about the latest design trends and technological advancements, I am able to enhance my design abilities continually. 2. Collaboration skills: Close collaboration with clients, team members, and other stakeholders is essential for achieving successful design outcomes. By fostering positive collaborative relationships, striving towards common goals, and leveraging collective wisdom, more creative and impactful design solutions can be generated. 3. Persistence and self-motivation: Design is an iterative and evolving process. In the face of challenges and setbacks, persistence and self-motivation drive me to persevere and seek new directions. This resilience and self-drive enable me to progress and achieve design objectives. Throughout my design journey, numerous individuals and experiences have had a profound impact on me. Firstly, my educational background provided me with a solid design foundation and theoretical knowledge. Additionally, my experiences working with renowned design firms and collaborating with clients from diverse industries have given me practical expertise and valuable insights. Furthermore, I have been inspired and influenced by exceptional designers and artists whose works and creativity ignite my passion and inspire my design thinking. In summary, my design journey is an ongoing process of learning, growth, and exploration. By continuously enhancing my skills, collaborating with others, and drawing inspiration, I strive for continual improvement and the pursuit of excellence in design.

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

QA : My journey of growth has been marked by continuous learning, hands-on experience, and personal development. Through years of working in the design industry and collaborating with diverse projects and clients, I have honed my design skills and expanded my knowledge. I strive to stay informed about the latest design trends, techniques, and technologies, always exploring innovative design methods and concepts. Looking ahead, my plan is to further advance my design career and push the boundaries of the field. I aspire to become an influential and visionary designer, providing clients with unique, innovative, and valuable design solutions. I aim to make a positive impact and incorporate sustainability and social responsibility into my design work. My dream design projects are those that have far-reaching impact, challenges, and creativity. I envision participating in sustainable architectural initiatives that contribute positively to communities and the environment. Additionally, I dream of being involved in designing public spaces, urban planning, or projects with social influence, creating better experiences and improving people's lives. In the future, my plans involve continuing to drive my design career and expanding my reach. I aim to collaborate with international clients, broadening my design influence. I also intend to deepen my utilization of digital tools and the latest technologies to enhance design efficiency and creativity.

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

QA : Here are some suggestions for aspiring designers who are just starting their careers: 1. Continuous learning and growth: Design is a field that is constantly evolving, so it's important to maintain a curious mindset and a commitment to learning. Continuously build knowledge, upgrade design skills, and stay updated with the latest industry trends and technological advancements. 2. Diverse project experiences: Seek diverse project experiences that span across different industries and design types. This helps broaden your perspective, fosters adaptability, and enriches your design portfolio. 3. Build strong relationships: Foster positive relationships with colleagues, mentors, and industry experts. Seek feedback and guidance from them. Their experiences and advice can help you grow and advance your career. 4. Master effective communication skills: Good communication skills are crucial for designers. Learn to listen to clients' needs, accurately convey your design concepts and solutions, and collaborate effectively with team members. 5. Embrace challenges and learn from failures: Early in your career, you may encounter challenges and setbacks. Don't be afraid of failure; instead, learn from it and continuously strive for improvement. Maintain a positive mindset and perseverance as you work towards your goals. In my own career, I have faced challenges such as time management, client communication and understanding, and project pressures. Through experience and self-reflection, I have learned how to effectively address these issues and continually enhance my capabilities. One of the best pieces of advice I have received is to maintain a curious and learning mindset. Continuously seek new knowledge, attend industry-related seminars, workshops, and training courses, and engage in conversations and knowledge sharing with fellow designers. Additionally, I have expanded my professional knowledge by reading design books, following design blogs and websites, and visiting design exhibitions and events. These activities have allowed me to broaden my understanding and draw inspiration and creativity. Above all, maintaining passion and love for your craft is crucial for career success. Stay passionate about your design work and constantly seek new challenges and opportunities, as it will drive your growth and progress.

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

QA : As a truly successful designer, I have some advice for fellow designers, artists, and architects: Cultivate a unique voice: Find your own creative voice and style. Embrace your individuality and bring a fresh perspective to your work. Don't be afraid to take risks and push boundaries to create innovative and compelling designs. Embrace collaboration: Design is a collaborative process. Foster a spirit of collaboration and actively seek opportunities to collaborate with others in your field or related disciplines. Working with diverse perspectives can enrich your work and lead to groundbreaking solutions. Continuous learning and adaptation: The design field is ever-evolving, so it's important to stay updated with the latest trends, technologies, and industry advancements. Be open to learning new skills, exploring emerging technologies, and adapting to changes in the industry. User-centric approach: Place the needs and experiences of users at the forefront of your design process. Understand their desires, challenges, and aspirations, and create designs that truly resonate with them. User-centric design leads to more meaningful and impactful solutions. Attention to detail: Pay meticulous attention to details in your designs. Strive for precision, clarity, and coherence in every aspect of your work, from typography and color choices to user interfaces and spatial arrangements. Small details can make a big difference in the overall experience.

What is your day to day look like?

QA : My daily life as a designer is characterized by creativity and diversity. Here's an overview of my typical routine: Morning Routine: I start my workday with a structured morning routine. I set clear goals and priorities, and organize my schedule. I enjoy preparing myself with a cup of coffee, getting into the right mindset for the day ahead. Design Work: The majority of my time is devoted to design work. This includes communicating with clients, understanding their needs and goals, and translating them into creative design solutions. I engage in design research, gather inspiration, and create initial sketches and concept designs. Then, I refine and finalize my designs, using computer-aided design software for drawing, modeling, and rendering. Project Management: In addition to design work, I handle project management responsibilities. This involves effective communication with clients and team members, ensuring projects are delivered on time, and overseeing progress and quality control. I develop project plans, schedule meetings, and coordinate collaboration among stakeholders. Learning and Research: As an advocate for continuous learning, I dedicate time to reading design news, industry trends, and advanced design theories. I also participate in industry seminars, webinars, and training courses to expand my knowledge and skills. Creative Breaks: Amidst busy workdays, I carve out time for creative breaks. This may involve visiting art exhibitions, reading design books, or exploring interesting architectural projects. These little moments allow me to disconnect from daily work and spark inspiration. Joys in Work: Throughout the day, there are many things that bring me joy and excitement in my work. Seeing my design concepts appreciated and recognized by clients provides a sense of fulfillment. Tackling complex design problems and facing challenges also excites me, as they present opportunities for personal growth. Of course, there are also daily routines and administrative tasks such as responding to emails, handling documentation, and discussing project progress with team members. However, overall, I cherish the freedom of creativity and find joy and satisfaction in the challenges and rewards of the design process.

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

QA : To stay updated on the latest design trends, I employ a multifaceted approach that combines various sources of inspiration and industry insights. Here's how I keep up with design trends: 1. Research and Exploration: I actively engage in design research and exploration, seeking inspiration from diverse mediums such as design publications, blogs, online platforms, and social media. This allows me to discover emerging trends, innovative techniques, and new design approaches. 2. Attend Design Events and Exhibitions: I make it a point to attend design events, exhibitions, and conferences. These provide valuable opportunities to witness cutting-edge designs, interact with industry professionals, and gain insights into current and upcoming trends. 3. Collaboration and Networking: Collaborating with other designers, artists, and architects helps me stay connected to the design community and exchange ideas. Networking events, professional organizations, and online design communities offer platforms for sharing knowledge, discussing trends, and gaining different perspectives. 4. Continuing Education: I believe in the importance of lifelong learning. By participating in workshops, seminars, and online courses, I stay informed about new design methodologies, tools, and technologies. This allows me to adapt to evolving trends and integrate them into my design process. Regarding the significance of design trends, I believe they play a crucial role in the design industry. Design trends reflect the evolving needs, preferences, and lifestyles of users and consumers. They provide insights into what resonates with the target audience and can guide design decisions in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and user experience. While I appreciate the value of design trends, I also believe in maintaining a balance between following trends and cultivating a personal design style. It's essential to have a distinct design identity that sets me apart and reflects my unique perspective and creativity. By merging my personal design style with relevant trends, I strive to create designs that are both contemporary and timeless. Ultimately, my aim is to create designs that resonate with the target audience, fulfill their needs, and evoke emotional responses. Whether it's reflecting the current season's trends, developing a series or product line, or constructing a bespoke architectural masterpiece, I draw inspiration from various sources to ensure my designs are fresh, relevant, and innovative.

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

QA : When assessing the quality of a product or project design, here are three key aspects to consider: Functionality: Good design should effectively fulfill the functional requirements of the product or project. It should provide practicality, efficiency, and convenience in addressing the intended purpose. User Experience: Design should prioritize the user experience and consider the perspective of the end-users. It should simplify complexity, offer intuitive interfaces, and facilitate seamless interaction. Excellent design guides users through a smooth and satisfying experience. Aesthetic Value: Good design exhibits visual appeal and quality aesthetics. It should demonstrate visual balance, proportion, and harmony, using elements such as color, shape, materials, and layout to convey appropriate emotions and style.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

QA : Determining the readiness of a design involves the following aspects: 1. Meeting goals and requirements: The design has fulfilled the established goals and requirements of the product or project, effectively addressing the problem or providing the necessary functionality. 2. Meeting expected standards: The design has met the expected standards and quality requirements. It has undergone thorough testing and evaluation, complying with relevant industry standards and specifications. 3. Feedback and validation: The design has gone through a process of feedback and validation. This may include user testing, prototype validation, professional reviews, or team discussions. By gathering feedback and making necessary improvements and adjustments, the design ensures it achieves the desired outcome. 4. Time and resource constraints: The design has been completed within the given time and resource constraints, aligning with the project's timeline. Throughout the project's progress, it is essential to balance design optimization and improvements, knowing when to stop iterating at the appropriate time. 5. Goal achievement and user satisfaction: The design has achieved the intended goals and obtained user satisfaction and approval. Through user feedback, assessment of key metrics, and quantifiable measurement of goal attainment, the success of the design can be determined. However, design is an ongoing process of evolution and improvement, always leaving room for enhancements. Even when a design is deemed ready, it can still be optimized and updated based on user feedback, market observations, and technological advancements. When deciding if a design is ready, it is crucial to consider these factors holistically and make judgments based on the project's time, resources, and goals. Designers should maintain an open mindset and continuously monitor the performance of the product or project to make adjustments and improvements as needed.

Who is your favourite designer?

QA : The designer I personally admire and appreciate is Jonathan Ive, the former Chief Design Officer at Apple. He emphasized simplicity, elegance, and user-friendly aesthetics and functionality in the design of Apple products, earning widespread acclaim for the company.

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

QA : Firstly, I don't have a particular favorite or inspiring city as every city has its unique charm and inspiration. I enjoy traveling and exploring different cities and cultures, which provides me with a broad perspective and creative inspiration. Music plays a significant role in my creative process. I find that music can ignite my creativity and provide me with focus and inspiration. I enjoy incorporating suitable music into my design process, as it allows me to become more engaged and enjoy the process of creation. My cultural background does influence my design projects to some extent. As a Chinese designer, I am deeply influenced by Chinese culture, which shapes my aesthetic views and design style. I strive to incorporate traditional cultural elements into my designs and blend them with modern design to create unique and meaningful works. Currently, I am based in China. As a designer, I am working on various projects, collaborating with clients to address their design needs and providing innovative solutions. I believe that good design is crucial for societal progress. Design can influence people's lifestyles, enhance user experiences, and solve real-world problems. Good design can improve efficiency, elevate the quality of life, and shape positive social change. Personally, design gives me a sense of purpose, enabling me to create meaningful works and share beautiful experiences with others. Design has brought many small but positive incremental changes to my life. It has helped me pay more attention to details and aesthetics, making me more attuned to people's needs and experiences. Design stimulates my creativity and sharpens my observation and appreciation of beauty in everyday life. It makes me more open-minded and flexible, constantly seeking opportunities for innovation and improvement, and driving my personal growth and progress.

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

QA : I’m thrilled to be a part of A' Design Award and Competitions and looking forward to shing or be inspired by great ideas and outstanding talents. Acknowledgment from A' Design will be a great recognition of hard work and brilliant minds for all the designers out there. Winning A' Design Award means a lot in the industry and I want to see that in my portfolio.

Qichao An Profile