We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Xin Chen ("XC").
Chen Xin is a product designer. Now, he is studying for a master of product in Domus academy in Milan. He always looks for the starting point of design from the ancient culture and his design concept originates from the national culture. He is keen to combine some traditional crafts with modern aesthetics to design creative and cultural products.
Xin Chen Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Xin Chen.
Xin Chen Design - Pure Chair
Designer Interview of Xin Chen:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
XC : I am a person who loves painting. When I was very young, I started to be in touch with painting. I grew up and naturally had a strong interest in design.
DI: What is "design" for you?
XC : Design is a way to solve people's higher needs. It is difficult for me to define it, because the design originates from the inner thought of the individual, and it has always been biased by the individual.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
XC : I like to design a product that can be continuously improved, such as furniture. When you review a work after two weeks, you can always see where it needs to be modified.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
XC : I prefer the design of Kenya Hara, it conveys a very empty state. His definition of design is "just like this", and his design is very inclusive.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
XC : I like wood. Since ancient times, wood is an indispensable material for life. It is a gift from nature.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
XC : When I take a walk, I can focus on the things around me, and the natural growth can sometimes provide inspiration for my style.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
XC : I will think twice about the message that this work can convey. The second is its shape and size.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
XC : Sometimes I design very ugly things, I feel disappointed, powerless and a little angry with myself.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
XC : Of course, a great work will bring a very high sense of accomplishment.
DI: What makes a design successful?
XC : Love design.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
XC : Good design I can feel the designer's thoughts or emotions.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
XC : The designer needs to lead the public in a sustainable direction, and the designer needs to be responsible for the impact of his products.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
XC : The future of design is to summarize the past experience, the design field divides us into various types of designers, which makes us more professional.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
XC : My design inspiration comes from many things, it may be a branch, it may be a shark, I will keep a lot of creativity by browsing a lot of things.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
XC : The quick drawing of the sketch is the first step. It allows you to quickly find a suitable shape. Secondly, I will go to build the model and modify the details repeatedly until I am basically satisfied with it. At this time, I will make it and think Product details and structural stability.Finally, of course, modify it.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
XC : Design is a very broad field, everyone can join, even if you may leave one day, but this is a very meaningful journey.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
XC : Inspiration comes from life, and details determine the height of the product.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
XC : Aesthetic ability and emotional intelligence.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
XC : Books, videos, sceneries are all my inspiration sources. My tools are sketchup, ps, ai, rhino, etc.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
XC : Are we over designing this product?
DI: What was your most important job experience?
XC : At the beginning of this year, I participated in the design of a sustainable business model, also known as SDG. It made me realize that design is an industry that can bring huge social value. Designers can directly promote environmental protection and improve the mode of getting along with people. Career, it is very important and necessary.