1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your background.
I am a packaging and graphic designer that is currently based in New York. I studied Visual Communication Design for my undergraduate degree and am currently pursuing a graduate degree in Packaging, Identities, and System Design at Pratt Institute. Throughout my design journey, I have seen myself as a multidisciplinary designer, working across packaging, visual experiences, and branding.
I am passionate about how design connects people through visual language. I strive to create designs that benefit the world and connect people through positivity and bold ideas.
2What does “design” mean to you?
I believe design is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about giving something a soul. Design is unique and interesting. It creates unexpected sparks, promotes creativity and communication, and improves our living environment. Design has the power to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, making life more enjoyable and meaningful.
3What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
I enjoy a wide range of design genres, ranging from minimalist to bold and even quirky ideas. I enjoy exploring diverse styles of design. I believe that design works should be creative, diverse, or even unexpected.
4To you, what makes a “good” design?
To me, a “good” design resonates with users both meaningfully and emotionally. It solves problems and enhances people’s lives. It also effectively communicates messages that are difficult to express in words, making abstract ideas and feelings tangible.
No matter what angle is used to approach or interpret, the ultimate goal of a good design is to solve a problem, establish a concept, or generate an idea.
5Describe your design style and its main characteristics.
I am still exploring and developing my personal style, but I don’t adhere to a specific design style; instead, I enjoy exploring a diverse range of aesthetics. From minimalist to bold and even quirky ideas, I find inspiration in various sources, drawing from everyday life such as the dreams and the world around me. This approach allows me to be flexible and innovative, and to express unique ideas.
6Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
Absolutely, my country and its cultural heritage have a profound impact on my design process. My country's rich history, cultural traditions, and the influence of Daoist philosophy and Chinese calligraphy, all inspire unique perspectives and expressions in my work.
7Congratulations! As the winner of the 2024 NY Product Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
As a graphic & packaging designer, winning the NY Product Design Awards has been particularly meaningful to me. It serves as an additional validation of my work in these specific areas.
8Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 NY Product Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
Participating in this competition allowed me to explore how a product design focused on artistic expression rather than mere functionality. The design shows the shoe itself can be considered a work of art, as can the shoe package.
The packaging design for “Air Shoes” combines cutting-edge innovation with an otherworldly sense of freedom and lightness. Taking inspiration from the aerodynamic qualities of a spaceship, embracing the shoes’ focus on “air,” the packaging conveys the feeling of effortlessly cutting through the air and flying, representing the values of speed, agility, and innovation. Incorporating streamlined contours and lines, the spaceship packaging resonates with the fluidity of motion while highlighting the lightweight nature of the shoes.
9What was the biggest challenge with this project?
As a graphic and packaging designer, my biggest challenge in this project was creating 3D models and prototypes. It was challenging because it required skills and knowledge beyond my usual graphic and packaging design work. From modeling to final prototyping, the process required different skills and a deeper understanding of materiality, structure, and manufacturing processes.
10How has winning an award developed your practice/career?
Winning this award has not only boosted my confidence but has also encouraged further growth and achievement in my career. Additionally, it has provided me with the invaluable opportunity to showcase my designs to a broader audience.
11What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?
Leveraging its geographical advantage as an island, my country fosters a culture that embraces diverse global perspectives and influences. Taiwanese design is distinguished by its rich cultural diversity and historical heritage, seamlessly blending tradition with modernity. The vibrant street life, local customs, and intricate patterns of everyday life in my country serve as constant sources of inspiration for its creative endeavors.
12Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years, I believe design will get more high-tech with things like AI, AR, and VR becoming a bigger part of how we create and experience things. Collaboration between different fields like design and technology will be more common to solve complex problems.
13If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring NY Product Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
While the result is important, the journey and learning experience are just as valuable. Stay curious about new trends and technologies. Trust your creative ideas. Success takes time and persistence, so stay patient and keep moving forward.
14What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
Websites like Pinterest, Behance, and Dribble are excellent sources for finding inspiration and discovering new ideas. Moreover, taking the time to look at award-winning works from design competitions can it’s also be a good way to keep yourself up-to-date.
15What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
My key to success is perseverance. Understand that everyone progresses at their own pace, so don’t give up. Stay committed to your goals, keep learning, and embrace challenges as opportunities to grow. Success is a journey, not a destination.