Janet Hiu Yan Chow

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Janet Hiu Yan Chow ("JHYC") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

JHYC : My family runs a jewelry manufacturing business. Since teenage, I would help in jewelry trade shows. But this did not raise my interest in the industry. I even said I would never join them. I graduated from business school and eventually landed in a 9 to 5 bank job. in jewelry trade shows. I graduated from business school and eventually landed in a 9 to 5 bank job. But I have always like drawing and designing, so I took jewellery production and design courses during my spare time and gemology course from GIA. In 2017 I started Vea Fine Jewelry, aiming to create simple, versatile and practical pieces for everyday wear with natural conflict free, responsible diamonds and precious stones.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

JHYC : I would wear their dainty sample pieces when I work in bank. Friends, colleagues, customers kept asking me where to get them. It was then I realised my taste is recognise by others. I then started thinking I could maybe make a profession out of it.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

JHYC : I chose it. I find it very difficult to be forced into one.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

JHYC : Custom pieces are most fun because you get to hear stories and the whole design process could be very interactive with the client.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

JHYC : One that public accepts, understands and could associate. For jewelry it is important that the piece is comfortable enough to be worn. Because jewelry is art pieces on body.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

JHYC : Because good designs create harmony, improve life and help others to embrace life in every possible way.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

JHYC : I would like to design for anyone with character. I would like to create signature pieces that they would wear everyday as an icon.

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

JHYC : Design is to create harmony, improve life and help others to embrace life in every possible way. To me design is to understand the wearer and help them translate their thoughts and ideas into the piece with my profession. Helping the wearer to express herself.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

JHYC : Family and friends for sure. They support and believe in me from the beginning.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

JHYC : All the rejections and failures. So I understand myself better and know what to improve.

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

JHYC : Versatile designs that speak even better.