Interview
Hsieh Te-Li
1 Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
Hi! I am Hsieh Te-Li from Taiwan. I'm currently a high school student at Fu-Hsin Trade & Arts School. The project that I submitted is a design project from my sophomore year.
2 What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
During my time at one of Taiwan's most prestigious art high schools, I had the incredible opportunity to broaden my artistic horizons. The guidance of dedicated teachers and the exceptional learning environment truly enriched my artistic journey.
3 Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.
My alma mater has fostered the growth of numerous influential individuals within the community. At this school, students have the opportunity to cultivate a diverse skill set, including watercolor painting, drawing, modeling, software proficiency, color coordination, and spatial planning.
4 What does “design” mean to you?
Design, in my view, represents a deep-seated passion, an avenue for enjoyment, a wellspring of inspiration, and a source of profound achievement.
5 What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
I am drawn to intricate and majestic designs that evoke a sense of awe, and I find solace in the soothing, numbing sensation.
6 To you, what makes a “good” design?
A good design is one that not only fulfills the requirements of the client but also reflects a high level of craftsmanship. It should be created with passion and unwavering dedication.
7 Describe your design style and its main characteristics.
In my design work, I often incorporate natural, flowing lines and opt for simple, understated colors to convey my artistic vision.
8 Tell us about your design process.
When it comes to the design process, I find that it requires a considerable amount of time and effort, especially during the conceptualization phase. However, once I've articulated my ideas, the design seems to effortlessly come together. At that point, it's just a matter of refining the details. Surprisingly, the actual design structure can be completed in just a few minutes from the initial concept to the finished product.
9 Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
Yes, I believe the knowledge and skills I gained through my education significantly influence the way I develop design ideas, the way I think, and my overall personal growth.
10 Congratulations! As the winner of the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Thank you! It is an honor for me to win the MUSE Design Awards. As a student, the recognition I receive has the most significant impact on me.
11 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
During my sophomore year of high school, I had to complete an assignment, and I chose this particular topic because I believed that it was the most deserving project I had.
12 What was the biggest challenge with this project?
The most significant hurdle in this project is the extensive sanding process. It requires a substantial amount of time and attention to detail as each layer must be sanded multiple times before the entire piece achieves a glossy, polished finish.
13 How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
Winning an award has been my wish and the inspiration for me to push onwards. Winning the 2024 MUSE Design Awards has been a tremendous source of inspiration for me, propelling me to delve deeper into my studies and broaden my understanding of design.
14 What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?
The 3 things I really like about the design industry would be the initial process of conceptualizing the design. Next, the input gathering phase, and finally the moment of completion with all the details acquired.
15 What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?
Taiwan's distinctive position in the design industry is due to its cultural diversity, technological expertise, government support, educational strength, sustainability initiatives, advanced manufacturing, global recognition, and active design communities. These elements come together to form a vibrant and innovative design environment.
16 Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
The design industry in Taiwan is expected to focus on sustainability, technological integration, cultural enrichment, global collaboration, improved education, user-centric approaches, digital innovation, health-focused design, and sector expansion in the next decade. These trends will help Taiwan stay at the forefront of the global design landscape.
17 If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
The essence of purity is paramount; regardless of the intricacies of the design, preserving its purity is crucial.
18 What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
Explore the timeless creations of design masters, immerse myself in a diverse selection of movies and novels, and nurture your curiosity. Design permeates every aspect of your life.
19 Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
When I'm passionate about something, I become incredibly focused, and I believe that this intense focus is what makes my artwork truly unique and one-of-a-kind.
20 Who has inspired you in your life and why?
Life has provided me with everything I need, and I often find valuable information in the little things.
21 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
I firmly believe in what I am working on, and I consistently maintain a humble yet motivated and inspired outlook on life.
22 Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I would like to express my gratitude to the award platform for giving me the chance to win the award and for broadening my international perspective. I also want to thank the organizer for the recognition.
