We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Mahdokht Rezakhani ("MR").
Mahdokht Rezakhani is a graphic designer and visual artist whose work seamlessly blends creativity and research. With a strong foundation in design principles, she leverages her studies to create visually striking and culturally relevant designs. Her artworks, characterized by a unique fusion of traditional and modern elements, showcase her passion for exploring various artistic mediums and her ability to push creative boundaries.
Mahdokht Rezakhani Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Mahdokht Rezakhani.
Mahdokht Rezakhani Design - Dastbaf Board Game
Designer Interview of Mahdokht Rezakhani:
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?
MR : My earliest memories are intertwined with the intricate patterns of Persian carpets. Growing up, they were a constant source of visual inspiration. They weren't just floor coverings; they were canvases for my childhood games, transforming into fantastical landscapes as my brother and I explored details. This early exposure to the beauty of intricate design fostered a deep appreciation for visual aesthetics and laid the foundation for my interest in art and design.
DI: What is "design" for you?
MR : Design goes beyond mere function. It should evoke emotions, tell a story, and create a positive impact on people's lives. This could be through aesthetics, usability, or even social and environmental considerations.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
MR : I'm particularly drawn to projects that bring cultural narratives to life. I believe design has the power to preserve cultural heritage, foster empathy, and build bridges between people through the shared language of visual storytelling.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
MR : I'm particularly drawn to designs that utilize geometric principles. I find it fascinating how a collection of small, seemingly simple shapes can come together to create a complex and beautiful whole, adhering to strict geometric rules.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
MR : I prioritize the user experience above all else. I focus heavily on understanding the user's needs, pain points, and goals. This involves conducting thorough user research, creating user personas, and testing designs with real users to ensure they are intuitive, accessible, and enjoyable.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
MR : Designing is a rollercoaster of emotions! There's the initial excitement and energy as I delve into a new challenge. Then comes the focus and concentration as I brainstorm ideas and start to sketch. Sometimes there's frustration when things aren't working out as planned, but overcoming those obstacles and seeing the design come together is incredibly rewarding. Ultimately, I feel a sense of accomplishment and pride when I create something that is both beautiful and functional.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
MR : Seeing my designs come to life is incredibly gratifying. It's a validation of all the hard work, research, and iteration that went into the process. There's a sense of accomplishment and pride in knowing that my ideas have translated into a tangible product or experience that others can enjoy and use.
DI: What makes a design successful?
MR : A truly successful design is a balance of form and function. It is aesthetically pleasing, user-friendly, and effective in achieving its goals. It is also sustainable, ethical, and considerate of its environmental and social impact.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
MR : I initially assess the design's aesthetics and functionality. Is it visually appealing and engaging? Does it have a strong visual hierarchy and clear visual cues? Is it functional and easy to use? These initial impressions often set the tone for my overall evaluation.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
MR : Designers have a responsibility to create sustainable, equitable, and ethical solutions. This includes minimizing environmental impact, ensuring inclusivity for all users, and considering the ethical implications of their work throughout the entire design process.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
MR : The design field is evolving rapidly, driven by AI, immersive technologies, and a growing focus on sustainability and ethics. Interdisciplinary collaboration will be key as designers work to create innovative and impactful solutions for a changing world.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
MR : My design inspiration draws from a diverse range of sources. Nature is a constant source of wonder. I also find inspiration in the rich history of design, and in the diverse cultures I encounter through travel and immersion. To nurture my creativity, I actively seek out new experiences, engage in creative hobbies, and cultivate a curious and observant mind. I believe inspiration can be found everywhere – in the everyday details of life, the works of others, and the ever-evolving world around us.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
MR : I live in Tehran, Iran. The cultural heritage of my country undoubtedly influences my design sensibilities.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
MR : My design process begins with thorough research. I delve deep into the user needs, project goals, and competitive landscape. This research informs my ideation phase, where I explore various concepts and brainstorm potential solutions. I then create prototypes and test them with users, iterating on the design based on their feedback. This iterative process continues until I arrive at a solution that is both user-friendly and effective.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
MR : Design is a lifelong journey of discovery. Embrace challenges, experiment boldly, and don't be afraid to let your imagination run wild.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
MR : Being a designer offers creative freedom and the chance to make a real impact. However, it's a competitive field with demanding deadlines and subjective feedback. Continuous learning is crucial to stay ahead, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
MR : "Always question your assumptions."
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
MR : For designers, success hinges on a blend of creativity and technical proficiency. This includes strong visual thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, alongside mastery of design software and research methodologies.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
MR : I constantly seek new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow as a designer. I believe that good design has the power to improve lives and make the world a more beautiful and user-friendly place. I am eager to contribute my skills and creativity to a dynamic environment where I can collaborate with talented individuals and contribute to innovative projects.