Interview with Tzuhsiang Lin of Pratt Institute

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Tzuhsiang Lin

Pursuing his second year of graduate studies with Pratt Institute, Tzuhsiang Lin is a talented product designer in New York that finds inspiration from the world around him when designing.


Interview With The 2023 MUSE Design Awards Winner – Tzuhsiang Lin

1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
My name is Tzuhsiang Lin, and I work as a product designer in New York. Presently, I am pursuing my second year of graduate studies at Pratt Institute, focusing on product design, furniture design, and accessory design.
2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
Design is a realm that I am deeply passionate about. It stems from a personal connection that is forged by observing life and the environment around me while also considering one's own identity, the objects that surround us, and the responsibility towards society. Witnessing the delight and emotional reactions on people's faces when they encounter a design creation that has been meticulously crafted over countless hours fills me with immense joy.
3What does “design” mean to you?
Design in my opinion is a deliberate process that comes from personal observations of life and surroundings.
4What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
This is a great question! I think each person has their own unique interpretation of what constitutes good design. Personally, a design that evokes a strong emotional response is one that I truly adore.
5To you, what makes a “good” design?

In my opinion, good design encompasses both practicality and feasibility while also reflecting the style of the designer or brand. For me, a striking design is one that can stir emotions, even if it resonates to a smaller audience.

People often perceive a design as fantastic when it effectively addresses their needs or sparks a must-have desire. This connection arises from shared life experiences and journeys between the designer and the individual, evoking genuine emotions and moving people deeply.

6Describe your design style and its main characteristics.

The core of my designs revolves around my life experiences and the things close to my heart. It is my aspiration that my creations can impact me deeply before resonating with others. As I mentioned earlier, I strongly believe that a successful design must have the power to emotionally touch people.

Regarding the style or defining traits of my designs, many friends have remarked that they can identify my work at a glance. Nonetheless, I am continuously in the process of exploring and refining my personal style.

7Tell us about your design process.

As previously stated, my design process begins with observing the world around me. I draw inspiration from my personal life experiences, and from there, I embark on the journey of design development. This involves conducting thorough research, sketching ideas, building prototypes, and ultimately arriving at the final design.

Throughout this creative journey, I adhere to the fundamental steps of design, encompassing research, sketching, prototyping, and final product realization.

8Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
I believe that my cultural background and diverse upbringing enable me to bring forth a different perspective in the design process, focusing on how design impacts people's emotions and points of engagement.
9Congratulations! As the winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
This is wonderful news for me as it validates the dedication and hard work I've poured into my craft. The decision to enter this competition was largely influenced by my deep admiration for the past award-winning designs. Furthermore, given my location in New York, I felt it was essential to participate in this esteemed event.
10Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
The most significant help would probably come from enhancing exposure opportunities, as it enables a broader audience to view my design.
11What was the biggest challenge with this project?
I am confident that this project lacks notably demanding elements. Any obstacles that emerge during its execution can be effectively overcome. If I were to highlight relatively difficult aspects, they would be the initial data gathering stage and the final product testing. Discovering appropriate interview participants and conducting comprehensive product testing might present some challenges.
12How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
The most significant support would be to enhance exposure opportunities! It would enable more people to view my designs and boost my confidence in creating products.
13What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?

The primary focus is on creating a diverse and inclusive environment. A thriving design space should welcome a wide range of expressions and perspectives. Equally important is the value of mutual respect. Embracing varying viewpoints and interpretations of design fosters the development of products with limitless possibilities.

Lastly, mutual learning is essential. The joy of witnessing products from diverse designers and the opportunity to learn from each other is a valuable aspect of the design experience.

14What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?
Being a designer from a different country studying in the United States, I believe my most unique attribute stems from the background and character shaped by my own culture. In my observation, many designers from my country are recognized for their efficiency and adeptness at swiftly identifying essential elements. This proficiency translates into highly competitive products in terms of pricing and innovative capabilities.
15Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
Green design is receiving increased attention, with a particular focus on electronic product development. The emphasis is notably placed on designing portable or wearable electronic products with eco-friendly considerations.
16If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
Have faith in one's capabilities to complete tasks and maintain a strong belief in one's design perspective.
17What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
Allocate some time to examine the award-winning designs from design competitions and explore different rendering or computer modeling techniques accessible through Google.
18What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Design is a continuous journey that entails consistently pushing oneself to progress and exploring the potential of each design throughout the process.

Winning Entry

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Pinnaculum Modular Sofa | Mohammed Shais Khan

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Tzuhsiang Lin

Pursuing his second year of graduate studies with Pratt Institute, Tzuhsiang Lin is a talented product designer in New York that finds inspiration from the world around him when designing.


Read Tzuhsiang Lin’s interview for the 2023 NY Product Design Awards here!

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