Interview with Sun Jian for Hiram’s Pearl Ice Wine

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Not for us | Extraordinary in the Ordinariness
December 19, 2024

Sun Jian

Sun Jian is the founder of SunDesign and an internationally recognized designer in brand and advertising. His style blends Eastern and Western perspectives, earning global praise. Starting with a focus on visual communication and brand building, he now leads the industry with sharp insights and innovative design thinking.

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

I am Sun Jian, the founder of SunDesign and an internationally renowned designer with extensive experience in brand design and advertising creativity. My unique design style blends Eastern and Western cultural perspectives, which has earned recognition and praise from clients worldwide.

My career began with a deep exploration of visual communication and brand building. I am not only skilled in design but also lead the industry with my sharp market insights and innovative design thinking.

2What made you become/why did you choose to become a creative?

I became a creative individual due to my deep passion for visual arts and design. Since childhood, I have been fascinated by aesthetics, culture, and creativity. Especially when observing the shapes and expressions of different things, I could always discover a unique visual language. This innate sensitivity and curiosity drove me to explore the world of design.

Choosing to become a creative person was not only motivated by my love for art but also by my belief that design has the power to transform brands and influence people's perceptions and emotions through visual expression. Design is not just a combination of graphics and colors; it is a form of communication that conveys ideas, cultures, and values.

I aspire to empower brands and businesses through my creations, helping them stand out in the market while also using design to change the world and create beautiful visual experiences. This sense of mission and pursuit of innovation solidified my decision to become a creative professional.

3Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.

Sun Design is an internationally renowned company specializing in brand design and advertising creativity, founded by myself. Our core services include brand strategy, advertising creativity, and packaging design, dedicated to providing comprehensive brand consulting and design services for clients around the world. By combining innovative design concepts with market insights, we help clients build distinctive and competitive brand identities.

At Sun Design, our work encompasses various aspects, from brand positioning and visual identity systems to product packaging design. We have successfully collaborated with numerous international brands, creating impressive visual identities for them. Additionally, we offer professional brand design services for startups, helping them establish a strong presence in the market.

As the founder, I lead a team that thoroughly understands the needs of each project, ensuring that every step from strategy to execution is carefully managed. This ensures that the final design not only looks beautiful but also holds cultural and market value. At the core of our work is using design to tell the unique story of each brand, creating a deep emotional connection with its audience.

4What does “creativity” mean to you?

To me, "creativity" means breaking away from conventional thinking, pushing boundaries, and approaching problems with fresh perspectives. It is not just the ability to express oneself artistically, but also a mindset of continuously seeking innovative and unique solutions in everyday life and work. Creativity stems from curiosity about the world and the courage to challenge existing norms and turn imagination into reality.

In the field of design, creativity means not just following trends but leading them, giving each project its own unique identity and value. Through creativity, we can transform seemingly ordinary things into meaningful and emotionally resonant designs, creating brand experiences that truly connect with people. Creativity is about endless possibilities—it stimulates thinking, drives progress, and brings about real change.

5To you, what makes a “creative” idea and/or design?

To me, a "creative" idea or design is one that breaks away from convention, evokes emotions, and solves real problems through unique concepts and visual expressions. A truly creative design is not just about aesthetically pleasing graphics or distinctive forms, but about conveying deeper messages, resonating with the target audience, and leaving a lasting impact.

The essence of creativity lies in its originality and uniqueness. It enables us to view and solve problems from new perspectives, breaking away from existing frameworks to provide more innovative and practical solutions. At the same time, great creative design must also be functional, striking a balance between aesthetics and effectively communicating the brand's message, helping clients achieve their business goals.

Creativity is not just an expression of imagination; it’s a tool for problem-solving, a way for designers to convey ideas and stories through visual language and strategy.

6Tell us about your creative and/or design process.

My creative and design process typically involves several steps: research and inspiration gathering, brainstorming, concept development, design iteration, finalization, and implementation with feedback. Before starting any project, I conduct in-depth research on the market and target audience to gather inspiration.

Next, I engage in open brainstorming sessions with the team to share various creative ideas. Once we select the most promising concepts, we create initial sketches and continuously refine the designs through iterations to ensure they truly meet the needs.

Finally, after meticulous adjustments, we complete the design proposal and assist the client with implementation, gathering feedback to assess the effectiveness of the design. This process emphasizes teamwork and attention to detail, aiming to create designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical.

7What's your favorite part of the creative process and why?

In the creative process, my favorite part is the brainstorming and concept development phase. During this stage, every team member can freely share their ideas and creativity, leading to a plethora of innovative concepts. This process is not only filled with creativity and energy but also inspires everyone, resulting in richer design ideas.

I enjoy this phase because of its openness and possibilities. There are no limitations or established frameworks, so any idea can be discussed and developed, making the entire creative process enjoyable and exciting.

Additionally, through teamwork, everyone motivates each other and explores new perspectives and solutions together. This collaborative atmosphere fosters a sense of participation and achievement for everyone, ultimately enhancing the quality of the entire project.

8Describe your creative style and its main characteristics.

My creative style blends simplicity and functionality, focusing on finding a balance between visual aesthetics and practicality. Its main features include clear and straightforward lines and compositions that ensure information is easily understood, avoiding visual clutter. At the same time, I enjoy using striking color combinations while emphasizing harmony and coordination to create eye-catching visual effects.

In my work, I often combine elements from different cultures to reflect a diverse perspective, aiming to resonate with a wide audience. Additionally, I strive to convey emotions and stories through design, allowing viewers to connect emotionally and think deeply while appreciating the work. I encourage bold experimentation and exploration in design to discover new visual languages and expressions, continuously pushing the boundaries of creativity.

Overall, my style aims to convey profound brand stories and values through unique visual expression while maintaining the practicality and feasibility of the designs.

9Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your creativity process?

Yes, I believe that my country and its cultural heritage have a profound impact on my creative process. China's rich history and diverse culture provide me with an endless source of inspiration for my designs. In my work, I often draw inspiration from traditional arts, crafts, and local customs, which add unique cultural depth to modern design.

Chinese culture emphasizes respect for nature and harmony between humans and the environment, and these principles are reflected in my designs. I enjoy blending traditional and contemporary elements to create designs that are modern yet convey a deep cultural background. Additionally, language, symbols, and colors carry rich meanings in Chinese culture, and I often incorporate these elements to enhance the emotional expression and storytelling of my designs.

By combining China's cultural heritage with modern design concepts, I aim to create works that resonate with the audience and help them better understand and appreciate the depth and beauty of this culture.

10Congratulations! As the winner of the 2024 MUSE Creative Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?

As the recipient of the 2024 MUSE Creative Awards, this honor means a great deal to me, my company, and our team. Firstly, it is not only a recognition of our creativity and hard work but also an affirmation of our teamwork and professionalism. Being able to stand out in such fierce competition demonstrates our innovative capabilities and influence in the design field.

Secondly, this award motivates us to continue striving for excellence and encourages us to push our creative boundaries. It serves not only as a symbol of achievement but also as a responsibility, urging us to maintain high standards and provide our clients with better services and more creative solutions.

Finally, this honor will help enhance our brand image, increase client trust, and attract more potential partners. It opens up more opportunities for our future development, allowing us to continue making a significant impact in the design industry. We understand that receiving this award is just a new starting point, and we will keep working hard, guided by innovation and professionalism, to pursue even higher goals.

11Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 MUSE Creative Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
This award motivates us to continue striving for excellence and encourages us to push our creative boundaries. It serves not only as a symbol of achievement but also as a responsibility, urging us to maintain high standards and provide our clients with better services and more creative solutions.
12What was the biggest challenge with this project?

The biggest challenge of this project was balancing design innovation with meeting client needs and market expectations. In the early stages, we faced difficulties in clarifying the client's vision and brand positioning, particularly in finding a balance between design style and functionality. This required us to gain a deep understanding of the client's core values and the preferences of the target audience to ensure that the final design would attract consumers and effectively convey the brand message.

Additionally, communication and collaboration within the team posed a significant challenge during the project. The generation of creative ideas requires close cooperation among team members, but differing viewpoints and creative directions can sometimes lead to disagreements. Therefore, we had to find an appropriate balance between creative exploration and team cohesion to ensure the integrity of the final work.

Lastly, time management was also a key challenge. Within a tight timeframe, we needed to quickly iterate on designs while ensuring that each stage received thorough review and refinement. This required us to effectively organize and allocate resources while maintaining quality to achieve the project's ultimate goals.

13How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?

Winning the award has had a profound impact on my practice and career. Firstly, this honor has not only enhanced my professional credibility but also increased the trust of clients and the industry in me. The recognition from the award has given me greater confidence in client communications and collaborations, allowing me to better showcase my design philosophy and creative abilities.

Secondly, this award motivates me to continually pursue excellence and encourages me to explore new possibilities in my design practice. It prompts me to reflect on my work and seek opportunities for further improvement, enabling me to continuously enhance my skills and creativity. Additionally, receiving the award has provided me with opportunities to connect with other talented designers and creatives, broadening my perspective and sources of inspiration.

Finally, winning the award helps to elevate my company's brand image, attracting more potential clients and partners. This impact extends beyond individual projects and contributes to the overall growth of the company in the industry, enhancing our market competitiveness. In summary, the award has provided me with new motivation and direction, making me more determined and focused in my future creations.

14What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?

What I love most about our industry are creativity and innovation, collaboration across different fields, and the impact of design. Firstly, creativity is the driving force behind the design industry; every day presents an opportunity to explore new ideas and solutions, allowing me to continually challenge myself and push the boundaries of design, experiencing endless possibilities.

Secondly, the design field requires collaboration with professionals from various backgrounds, such as marketing, product development, and user experience. This interdisciplinary cooperation not only enriches my perspective but also inspires me to think about problems from different angles, sparking new ideas.

Finally, design has a profound impact; through our work, we can significantly influence people's lives and ways of thinking. Whether it's brand identity, product packaging, or user experience, design can subtly change consumer perceptions and behaviors. This capacity to influence society and culture gives my work deep meaning and motivates me to continue creating better designs.

15What makes your country specifically, unique in the creative industry?

My country stands out in the creative industry due to several key factors: a rich cultural heritage, rapid technological development, growing market demand, and supportive policies and industry environment.

Firstly, China boasts a long history and diverse cultural traditions that provide a wealth of inspiration for the creative industry. Traditional arts, crafts, and folk customs infuse modern design with unique cultural significance, allowing it to maintain its distinctiveness in a globalized world. Secondly, the swift advancement of technology, particularly in the digital and internet sectors, has created unprecedented opportunities for the creative industry, transforming the ways of creation and distribution.

In terms of market demand, the rise of the middle class and consumers’ increasing preference for personalized and high-quality products have led to a sustained growth in demand for creative goods, motivating designers to explore new creative solutions. Finally, government support policies and a favorable industry environment have also contributed to the growth of the creative sector.

Through funding, tax incentives, and other encouragement measures, the government actively promotes the development of the creative industry, enhancing its competitive edge on the international stage. Together, these factors form China’s unique advantages in the creative industry, enabling it to secure a place in the global creative market.

16Where do you see the evolution of creative industry going over the next 5-10 years?

In the next 5 to 10 years, the creative industry will be shaped by several key trends. Firstly, digital transformation will become mainstream. With the adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality, the creative industry will increasingly rely on digital tools and platforms, making design and creative processes more efficient and flexible while providing personalized consumer experiences.

Secondly, sustainability and social responsibility will become significant topics, as consumers place greater emphasis on the sustainable practices of brands. This shift will compel designers and companies to consider ecological and social impacts in their work, promoting the implementation of environmentally friendly design principles.

Moreover, the creative industry will continue to engage in deep collaboration with sectors like technology, healthcare, and education, generating new ideas and solutions to better meet diverse needs. Cultural diversity will also gain importance, as incorporating elements from various cultures into design will add uniqueness to products and brands, catering to global market demands.

Finally, user participation and interaction will become increasingly crucial. Designers will need to focus on engaging with consumers, listening to feedback, and integrating user needs into the design process. In summary, the future of the creative industry will trend toward digitalization, sustainability, and diversity, while strengthening interaction with consumers and fostering cross-industry collaboration to navigate the rapidly changing market landscape.

17If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Creative Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?

If I were a student entering the creative industry or an aspiring MUSE Creative Awards contestant, I would advise them to cultivate a unique perspective by experimenting with different art forms and design styles to develop their own design philosophy.

Maintaining curiosity and an open mindset is crucial; staying informed about the latest industry trends and engaging with people from diverse fields can provide inspiration and insights. Additionally, accumulating practical experience is vital—participating in internships, projects, and competitions not only enhances skills but also helps build valuable connections.

It's also important to value feedback and improvement, learning from others’ opinions to refine one’s work continually. Establishing a personal brand cannot be overlooked; utilizing social media and personal websites to showcase one’s work, share the creative process, and connect with peers in and outside the industry is essential.

Finally, perseverance is key to success; the creative industry is highly competitive, and it’s important to remain resilient in the face of setbacks and keep pursuing one’s goals. By following these suggestions, I hope to help aspiring individuals navigate their journey in the creative industry successfully.

18What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the creative industry?

For those looking to enhance their skills in the creative industry, I would recommend a variety of resources. First, online course platforms like Coursera, edX, and Skillshare offer a wide range of creative courses covering fields such as design, photography, and marketing, helping learners systematically acquire professional knowledge and skills.

Additionally, reading relevant books and magazines can be very beneficial; classic books like 'Design as Art' and 'The Innovator's Solution' provide profound insights, while industry magazines such as 'Wired' and 'Creative Review' deliver the latest trends and case analyses.

Participating in workshops and seminars is also a great way to engage with industry experts and peers, gaining practical tips and experiences. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest, along with design forums such as Behance and Dribbble, serve as excellent sources of inspiration, allowing for sharing work and building connections. Moreover, hands-on project involvement is one of the best ways to improve skills; whether through personal projects or volunteering for non-profit organizations, practical experience helps reinforce learned concepts.

Lastly, seeking out mentors within the industry or building relationships with other creative professionals for regular feedback can significantly enhance professional skills and expand one's network. By utilizing these resources, individuals aspiring to improve their skills in the creative industry can gain knowledge, practice, and inspiration, ultimately advancing their career development.

19Tell us something you have never told anyone else.

In response to this question, I can share some personal insights and experiences.

Firstly, I've gone through numerous failures during my creative process, which taught me that failure is not the end but a necessary step toward success. I remember a time when I invested a significant amount of time and energy into an important project, only to find that it did not receive client approval. Although this experience was disheartening, I learned many valuable lessons from it, such as the importance of listening closely to client needs and effectively communicating my ideas in design.

Secondly, there have been moments when I felt disconnected from my creative inspiration, which made me realize that inspiration does not always come easily. To combat this feeling, I began exploring different activities like reading, traveling, and attending art exhibitions. These experiences greatly enriched my perspective and helped rekindle my passion for creating.

Lastly, I've been working hard to pursue balance in my life. Working in the creative industry often requires long hours, and I have sometimes neglected other important aspects of my life, such as family and personal health. In recent years, I have focused more on balancing various life elements, which not only enhanced my creativity but also allowed me to approach my work with renewed enthusiasm.

These are some of my personal reflections, and I hope they provide inspiration and encouragement to others.

20Who has inspired you in your life and why?

In my life, the two most significant sources of inspiration have been my mother and a university professor. My mother is a resilient woman who has shown me the true meaning of perseverance and selflessness. No matter what challenges she faced, she always approached life with optimism and worked hard to create a better life for our family. Her unwavering dedication and spirit have profoundly influenced me, encouraging me to remain steadfast and courageous in pursuing my dreams.

Additionally, my university professor has had a lasting impact on my creative journey. He not only sparked my intellectual curiosity but also encouraged me to explore my creative potential. His classes were filled with inspiration and deep discussions, providing me with a richer understanding of design and art. His genuine care and guidance for each student made me realize the power of education, motivating me to aspire to be someone who can influence others positively, just as he has done for me.

Together, these two important figures in my life continue to inspire me, driving me to pursue excellence and creativity in all my endeavors.

21What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

I believe the key to success lies in persistent effort, continuous learning, and adaptability. Regardless of the challenges we face, maintaining a positive mindset and problem-solving ability is crucial. Additionally, building strong relationships and fostering a spirit of teamwork can play a significant role in one's career. Collaborating with others can bring different perspectives and ideas, enriching the creative process.

As for a parting piece of wisdom, I would like to share a quote that resonates with me: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” This reminds us that experiencing setbacks is a common part of life and career, but what truly matters is how we respond to these challenges. By persistently pursuing our dreams and learning from each experience, we can position ourselves to thrive in an ever-changing environment.

22Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
In addition to what has been discussed in this interview, I would like to emphasize that the essence of creativity lies not only in technical skills but also in observing life and understanding human nature. As a designer, I firmly believe that design should serve people and focus on their needs and emotions. Whether it's product design, brand development, or advertising creativity, the key to success is the ability to resonate with the audience.

Winning Entry

Hiram's Pearl Ice Wine | 2024

MCA-sun-jian-hiram’s-pearl-ice-wine-sun-design

Sun Jian

Sun Jian is the founder of SunDesign and an internationally recognized designer in brand and advertising. His style blends Eastern and Western perspectives, earning global praise. Starting with a focus on visual communication and brand building, he now leads the industry with sharp insights and innovative design thinking.


Read more about this interview with Illum Cube Design Studio, the Gold Winners of the 2024 MUSE Creative Awards.

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