Interview with Xinming Liu

Xinming Liu ("XL") interviewed on Wednesday, 21 May.

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

XL : I studied Communication Design at Pratt Institute in New York after completing a visual arts degree in China. I've worked with media, health, and lifestyle brands, designing everything from editorial illustrations to product systems.

How did you become a designer?

XL : I’ve always been drawn to storytelling. Design became the path where I could combine visuals, emotions, and purpose.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

XL : I value emotional clarity, sustainability, and cultural context. I combine hand sketches with digital tools like Rhino and Adobe.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

XL : The spark of the first idea excites me the most. But deep satisfaction comes when the design emotionally connects with others.

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

XL : Curiosity, empathy, and writing skills. Storytelling across mediums shaped how I understand design as communication.

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

XL : From visual work to brand systems, I now explore how design can change behavior. I hope to build a design studio bridging East and West, with values at its core.

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

XL : Stay curious and don’t be afraid to start small. Listen more, compare less, and find your own rhythm.

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

XL : Be honest with your values. Tools和风格都会更新，但初心不能忘。

What is your day to day look like?

XL : I start my day reading or sketching. I balance design work with walks, tea, and journaling to stay grounded.

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

XL : I observe trends but don’t chase them. My design is more about long-term resonance than short-term appeal.

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

XL : Good design feels inevitable and leaves a memory. I value emotional impact and thoughtful structure.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

XL : When the intent is clear and the piece feels self-contained, I let go. But I always leave room for future evolution.

What is your biggest design work?

XL : My modular sustainable makeup kit. It bridges cultural storytelling with responsible beauty.

Who is your favourite designer?

XL : Kenya Hara for his philosophical restraint. Also Tadao Ando—his silence speaks volumes.

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

XL : I live between cultures—Chinese heritage and Western training. Nature, poetry, and solitude are important in my daily rituals.

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

XL : I value collaboration rooted in trust. Whether working alone or with partners, clarity and respect are non-negotiable.

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

XL : I’ve volunteered for mental health design initiatives and often mentor young creatives. Design is how I give back.

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

XL : It gave my work international visibility, helped me reflect, and opened doors to new audiences. Awards aren't just about competition—they’re opportunities to share values.

Xinming Liu Profile