During my childhood, my parents frequently exposed me to various art events and exhibitions, aiming to nurture my artistic sensibilities and appreciation for aesthetics. At the age of 7, I met my first art instructor at my elementary school. She guided me in preparing for art competitions throughout my subsequent school years. This marked the point where the realm of art began to unfold before me.
My aspiration was always to venture into the creative industry but I ultimately opted for business and economics as my college majors. This choice was driven by the recognition that I needed not just creativity but also critical thinking skills and to have a solid grasp of customer needs. After earning my bachelor's degree in economics from the University of Michigan, I went on to study design at Parsons in New York. This is where I acquired the foundations of professional design work and thinking, effectively beginning my journey in the field of design.
As a kid, I have harboured a lifelong aspiration to work in the creative industry. Art and design hold paramount significance in my existence. Art serves as my means to perceive, encounter, and convey my connection with the world, while design acts as a tool for uncovering latent opportunities on the horizon.
I am a firm believer that design serves as a means of problem-solving. It empowers us to enhance the quality, utility, and overall well-being of our lives, elevating our living conditions. My constant pursuit has been to align myself with a vocation that perpetually fuels my enthusiasm and drive. I am immensely gratified that I've chosen a career path that aligns with my passion.
Located in Shenzhen, China, No. 72 Design Studio is an autonomous design studio that focuses on a range of design disciplines including general graphic design, product design, packaging design, layout design, and designed-related consulting services.
Through the exploration of diverse design approaches and a steadfast commitment to staying abreast of current market demands, the studio's core objective revolves around furnishing solutions that optimize people's quality of life and contentment. Drawing inspiration from the Monkey King, a formidable figure in Chinese mythology with the ability to undertake 72 transformations, we hold the conviction that human intelligence, creativity, and untapped potential channeled through design can surpass the prowess of this legendary character.
I find enjoyment in engaging with product, graphic, and apparel design, all of which bear a strong connection to our daily experiences. Simultaneously, I remain dedicated to continuous learning, growth, and pushing my boundaries, particularly in design areas that integrate emerging technologies. I have a strong affinity for tackling diverse, inventive projects that present challenges.
In my perspective, various design disciplines share underlying connections. As technology continually advances, we possess the capability to craft designs that hold utility and functionality across a range of contexts and scenarios.
I hold the viewpoint that effective design should seamlessly blend functionality and practicality. As designers, we must not solely concentrate on the artistic aesthetics while neglecting the need for utility and usability. Striking the right equilibrium between these aspects is essential; otherwise, the end result could be an enticing yet ultimately purposeless creation, akin to superficial "eye candy."
Equally significant is the foundational concept underpinning the design. This concept serves as the product's core essence, much like a soul to its body. A well-defined concept underscores the distinctive attributes of the product, elucidating its purpose and setting it apart from similar offerings. In essence, it communicates to customers the product's raison d'être and what sets it apart from its competitors.
I believe a successful design will bring satisfaction and happiness to people physically, mentally or hopefully both.
The idea was sparked by the coffee-making process. The captivating display of coffee splashes and swirling milk ripples captured my attention when I poured milk into the coffee. Black coffee's robust bitterness contrasted with the pure, velvety texture of milk.
When the two opposite liquids ran into each other, they generated interesting reactions. The initial collision at the surface yielded splashes resembling crowns, which then fragmented into smaller droplets before melding into gentle ripples.
Just as these contrasting elements interact, our individual personalities and belief systems can vastly differ. When we engage in open and meaningful exchanges with those who hold dissimilar viewpoints, there's potential for remarkable revelations and personal growth. These interactions can yield fresh inspiration and even contribute to the enrichment of our wisdom.
Absolutely, without a doubt! My upbringing occurred in Shenzhen, an exquisite contemporary coastal metropolis within China. I possess a deep affection for my nation's cultural legacy and I firmly hold the belief that design should be boundless and unconfined by cultural barriers.
Notions and concepts possess the potential for diversity and inclusivity. I consistently strive to integrate Eastern cultural elements into my designs. The amalgamation of my life in both Eastern and Western nations has bestowed upon me a nimble and receptive mindset. These varied experiences have equipped me to perceive matters from a multitude of perspectives.
As a designer, having the opportunity to showcase my creations and receive recognition from individuals brings immense joy and fulfilment to my life. Being recognized from fellow design experts serves as a wellspring of encouragement, motivation, and tenacity, propelling me forward.
When people express their admiration for my creations, I am filled with gratitude and a profound sense of honour. Such sentiments signify that my dedicated efforts have borne fruit, and in my own way, I have contributed to enhancing our world.
The idea was sparked by the intermingling of coffee and milk. The project aims to capture the elegance of fluid dynamics by simulating the graceful movements of liquid flows. The collision of these liquids at the surface initiates the formation of irregular crown-like splashes, which then transform into gentle ripples.
These spontaneously abstract forms add intriguing characteristics to the tableware, enhancing the appeal of the food it holds. The sturdy structures of the saucers facilitate accommodating larger portions of food. Crafted from porcelain, the material imbues a sense of minimalist beauty. The sleek and unblemished appearance evokes a sense of cleanliness, potentially elevating one's appetite.
I sense that the inspiration behind this project harmonizes well with the essence of the design competition. I am of the belief that competition among designers hailing from diverse backgrounds and perspectives can kindle fresh ideas, igniting a path toward a more vibrant future.
The main challenge I encountered in this endeavour involves delineating the contours of the product, particularly when it comes to replicating the irregular forms of splashes, drips, and ripples. The objective centres on retaining the inherent randomness associated with liquid dynamics, thereby endowing the splashes and drips with an authentic and organic appearance.
To achieve this, I harnessed the capabilities of 3D dynamic software to simulate and fine-tune the fluid movements. Through this approach, the product's visual representation will exude a more natural semblance in relation to liquid states, reducing the semblance of artificiality.
Participating in the London Design Awards proved to be an invaluable journey for me. It provided me with the privilege to witness exceptional creations crafted by gifted designers of diverse nations, each with their unique interests and cultural backgrounds. This experience served as a splendid avenue for gaining exposure to novel concepts, honing fresh skills, and mastering innovative techniques offered by my fellow designers.
Through this competition, I engaged in a constructive evaluation of my own capabilities and limitations, recognizing areas of strength and opportunities for growth. The competition results act as a mirror, reflecting my past accomplishments and areas open for refinement. This feedback stands as a precious evaluation of my past endeavours, offering motivation to perpetually enhance and advance my craft.
This collection of cup and saucer sets can be used as multifunctional tableware. The cups cater to beverage needs, while the saucers can effortlessly double as plates for desserts, pastries, or fruits. The saucers, with their distinctive splash-shaped design and rippled base, create an illusion of the food being immersed in fresh milk when positioned at the centre.
The sleek porcelain surface exudes a feeling of cleanliness. These attributes collectively enhance the visual appeal and hygiene perception of the food, potentially elevating one's appetite. Moreover, the saucers can double as decorative elements within a home setting, thus ensuring their usefulness even when not in active use.
Evidently, the design landscape has grown increasingly diverse and inclusive over recent years. Swift advancements in science and technology have furnished us with heightened flexibility in shaping forms, employing techniques, and navigating platforms. Looking ahead, the rise of virtual technology appears poised to gain traction, potentially evolving into a mainstream fixture. Anticipating a surge in artistic and design ventures within this realm is plausible.
Another prevailing technological trend is Artificial Intelligence. We have witnessed AI-generated artworks and designs emerging. While AI-driven robots may not have fully matured, their present-day creativity and productivity are indeed impressive. These advancements suggest that AI might emerge as formidable contenders in the creative sector. Notably, the pressure of such competition can be harnessed as a motivating force, propelling us to perpetually innovate, enhance, and progress.
While achieving a favourable outcome can be satisfying, it's not the most important aspect of a competition. Irrespective of whether it pertains to our routine tasks or participation in contests, the journey and the lessons gleaned along the way hold the utmost value. The industry operates as a vast mirror, affording us the chance to glimpse our own reflections through the works of fellow designers.
This process enables us to identify our strengths and weaknesses. Moreover, the challenges we encounter can serve as a driving force, spurring us onward and encouraging continued growth and enhancement.
Vincent Van Gogh, an artist I deeply admire, once pondered, "What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?". Alexander McQueen, a celebrated fashion designer, offered the insight that progress is contingent on making mistakes. He further underscored the role of designers in continually propelling themselves forward, either by embracing existing trends or forging new ones. These quotes consistently resonate with me, leaving an indelible impression, inspiration, and motivation.
Our current era is marked by rapid innovation and evolution. Staying confined within our comfort zones can no longer shield us from the currents of change. Fear of challenges and missteps should not deter us, for they serve as invaluable tutors, imparting lessons and experience. If advancement is our goal, the sole path forward lies in persistent exploration and forward momentum.
As designers, it is very important that we step out of the confines of our comfort zones and embrace roles as adventurers and innovators. We need to remain in a creative space while forging ahead! Continually honing and expanding our abilities and expertise.
Our commitment should extend to delving into the uncharted territories of the future's untapped potential. In the expanse of the universe, boundless opportunities lie, and design serves as an immensely potent tool in uncovering them.
The inspiration of these cup and saucer sets came from the blending process of coffee and milk. The project intends to capture …
(Read more at London Design Awards)
Jessica Zhengjia Hu first got her introduction to the world of art early on in her childhood by visiting art exhibitions and it was when she was 7 years old it marked the point of how art changed her life.
Read more Jessica Zhengjia Hu’s interview for the 2022 NY Product Design Awards here!