Interview with Jung-Mei Wou for Alchemy Garden

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Jung-Mei Wou

Jung-Mei Wou is an artist with nearly two decades of experience in fine arts, whose work is highly valued by private collectors and has been commissioned for public art projects by national institutions. Her dedication to advancing artistic expression has earned her international recognition and awards.

1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.

My name is Jung-Mei Wou, an artist with nearly two decades of experience in fine arts. After completing my studies in the UK, I returned to my home country and began teaching as an adjunct assistant professor at the National Taiwan University of Science and Technology, where I shared my expertise in art and design.

In 2011, I founded my studio, embarking on a journey through various artistic disciplines such as visual arts, photography, sculpture, public art, and installation art. My work is cherished by private collectors, and I've also been commissioned for public art projects by national institutions. Honored with international awards, I'm devoted to advancing artistic expression.

2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
Art became my voice to express emotions and perceptions, connecting deeply with others. Pursuing design allowed me to explore the interplay of aesthetics and functionality, expanding my creative boundaries.
3Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.
I run an art studio specializing in sculpture and installation art. My role spans from conceptualizing designs to overseeing their realization, often collaborating with skilled craftsmen and engaging in public art commissions.
4What does “design” mean to you?
Design is a narrative, an emotion, and an immersive experience. It's about transforming concepts into tangible forms that resonate with viewers, bridging art with everyday life.
5What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
I'm drawn to public art because it engages communities and transforms spaces. It merges artistic expression with civic impact, leaving lasting impressions on urban environments.
6To you, what makes a “good” design?
A good design harmonizes form and function seamlessly, evoking clarity and emotional resonance. It should solve problems elegantly while embodying timeless aesthetic appeal.
7Describe your design style and its main characteristics.
My style blends organic forms with structural elegance, often inspired by nature and cultural narratives. Fluidity, balance, and a sense of narrative depth are hallmarks of my work.
8Tell us about your design process.
My process begins with sketching and physical modeling, grounding ideas in tactile exploration. Digital tools refine and amplify these concepts, ensuring precision and artistic integrity.
9Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
Absolutely! I think my country's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty profoundly influence my designs, infusing them with depth, symbolism, and a sense of environmental harmony.
10Congratulations! As the winner of the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Winning the 2024 MUSE Design Awards validates our artistic vision and dedication to excellence. It inspires us to continue pushing creative boundaries and engaging with global audiences.
11Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?

My winning entry, "Alchemy Garden," merges art with sustainability, transforming e-waste into sculptures that reflect the beauty of nature. As the Alchemy Garden emerges, it symbolizes a transformative journey, inviting discarded electronics to undergo a ceremonial metamorphosis.

Through this process, the installation breathes new life into the sustainable cycle, infusing it with profound artistic expression. I entered to highlight the urgent need for environmental stewardship through art.

12What was the biggest challenge with this project?

This experimental project invites participants to retain their favorite natural landscape images from their memories, which will be projected as part of the installation.

However, the collection and return of equipment are both subject to time constraints and involve diverse and unpredictable sizes, types, and quantities. The time-consuming nature of this process poses the greatest challenge.

13How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
Winning the award has expanded our visibility and credibility within the global design community. It has opened doors to new collaborations and opportunities to create impactful art installations.
14What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?
The ability to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and inspire change through art; the collaboration with diverse talents; and the opportunity to create enduring cultural landmarks.
15What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?
My country's design industry thrives on innovation, craftsmanship, and a blend of traditional aesthetics with modern technology. It fosters a dynamic environment where creativity flourishes across disciplines.
16Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
I foresee a greater emphasis on sustainable design practices, interactive and immersive installations, and the integration of digital technologies to enhance artistic expression and engagement.
17If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
Stay true to your artistic voice, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and always strive for excellence and innovation. Network actively and learn from diverse perspectives.
18What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
Engage in hands-on workshops, study historical and contemporary art and design movements, explore digital tools, and seek mentorship from experienced practitioners.
19Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
Each artwork I create carries a personal story or emotion, embedded in its form and concept, enriching its meaning beyond what is visible to viewers.
20Who has inspired you in your life and why?
Antoni Gaudí's visionary approach to architecture and design, blending organic forms with structural integrity, has deeply inspired my artistic journey and pursuit of innovative design solutions.
21What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Passion, perseverance, and a commitment to continuous learning are essential. Stay curious, embrace challenges, and let your creativity guide you toward meaningful achievements.
22Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I am grateful for the opportunity to share my journey and insights. Art has the power to inspire, provoke, and unite, and I look forward to continuing to create meaningful experiences through my work.

Winning Entry

Alchemy Garden | 2024

alchemy-garden-wei-jung-mei

Jung-Mei Wou

Jung-Mei Wou is an artist with nearly two decades of experience in fine arts, whose work is highly valued by private collectors and has been commissioned for public art projects by national institutions. Her dedication to advancing artistic expression has earned her international recognition and awards.


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