Interview with Sherry Kuo from United States

I drew a lot as a kid so that was part of my identity from a young age. My dad, who was an architect, encouraged me because he was also interested in drawing and painting. I remember hovering around his desk, watching him draw perfect lines and squares for architectural designs while I sketched lines and circles.

Years later, when I moved to New York, I initially studied illustration but as I discovered graphic design, I found it to be just as wonderful. I still love to draw because it was my entry point into the world of design.

We are a creative collective, and we collaborate with clients to convey their stories through visually compelling solutions. My role as the lead designer is to help them explore innovative options and establish a brand voice that is uniquely their own.

I believe that design is about communicating emotions through visual elements and creating unique experiences. I am always curious about my surroundings and I see my work as a way of reacting and creating. I take situations that are not of my own making and make them my own.

I am always on the lookout for things or subjects that make me say “Wow! That's well done, I want to have one.”

That’s an excellent question and it's something that I've been asking myself all the time.

I’d like to think whether I enjoy the thinking and making process or not, as well as if the design brings joy to the people and creates a memorable experience.

I think there are always graphic elements and typography involved and I enjoy adding a touch of personality and attitude into the work.

The design process can vary depending on the projects. Typically, I begin with background research and gather ideas, words, or images for reference. It's exciting to explore different ideas and possibilities. I usually have two to three concepts in mind simultaneously and then narrow them down to ensure that they are distinct while also answering the questions at hand.

I also believe in being open-minded and flexible during discussions with teammates or clients. Even if some ideas may not work out, there is always a way to find a solution and move forward.

Absolutely, I believe it's about honesty. We value fulfilling people's needs while also prioritizing their feelings and reactions. I think empathy and consideration for others are critical to good design, and this approach emphasizes these values greatly.

Thank you! We’re honored to have our works recognized and appreciate the opportunity to share joy with others.

The redesign of Pâtisserie Chez Mikki's packaging is a prime example of our philosophy of good design. Located in Tokyo, this pastry shop offers freshly baked goods and supplies pastries to several coffee shops in the neighborhood. We worked to define a brand new look, utilizing it as a platform to effectively communicate the brand's values and connect with the community.

Since the introduction, it has received positive feedback from both ends, serving as an expressive voice that takes customers on a full tour throughout Chez Mikki's wider world of pastry, instilling confidence in our belief in good design.

Pastry market is highly competitive with a swirl of locally made and mass produced products. The biggest challenge is to create visually appealing designs that can differentiate the product from others on the retail shelf.

We are honored to have received recognition and won an international award which reinforces our belief in our ability to continue doing great work.

Acknowledging different experiences. Confidence in good faith. Collaboration with talents.

The design industry is constantly evolving in tandem with technology. As a result, people are becoming increasingly creative, thinking beyond the confines of two-dimensional design and exploring the new, such as 3D and beyond.

I believe that the future of design will continue to expand and stay at the forefront of innovation, but at its core, the focus will always come back to helping people and communities move forward.

Work hard and play hard.

Go out and participate in a show, play or exhibition that interests you. Spend time with non-designer friends; they can be a source of inspiration and help you see things in a different way. You might be surprised!

My family are the heroes behind my success. Their encouragement and support have been the driving force that brought me to where I am today.

Show up for the challenges, if there’s a will, there is a way.

Thanks for having me!