qu'est-ce que c'est design
'what is it ?' a simple question borne out of necessity, with curiosity being the impetus of creation. The question is uncomplicated, but begs only for an answer that appropriately satisfies, among a million others.
Singapore
Singapore
What is the story of your studio ? Our studio was founded in late 2012 by May and Bryan. We are working as a two-person studio since the very first project out of Bryan's bedroom, built only with a basic white MacBook. Having been friends through their undergraduate days, May and Bryan came together with the desire to work together on projects that they felt personally connected to. When the studio started, they never thought that it would have last beyond a couple of months. But, fast forward three years, the studio is still fighting hard to keep our particular point of view through its design.
Do you have a particular work ethics ? We never allow ourselves to be too confined by a particular style for our projects. Besides, no client wants one-trick pony. When we receive a project, we generally ask ourselves what does the project truly require, both practically and conceptually. The 'right' style would usually come about naturally when the practical and conceptual needs are fulfilled. We also do not believe that graphic design needs necessarily to be executed using computers and desktop publishing software. We always try to include a little bit of human touch when the brief permits it.
Do you think current graphic designers have to look beyond their domain ? Absolutely. A graphic designer needs to, first, be human before designing. We embrace living a full life : eating, travelling, reading, exploring, interacting and, basically, doing whatever we enjoy beyond the confines of design. We find that our work becomes more impactful and intimate for ourselves, as well as the audience, when we live a fulfilling life, and when we can put our personal experiences and perspectives into it.
Do you think your work is connected to your locality ? Singaporeans are extremely pragmatic people ; we like everything to be clear, logical and purposeful. As a studio, this is how we like to work and also believe what good design should be. In that way, we think that makes us very 'Singaporean'. Interview conducted in November 2015 ©ktlg