Ji Eun Jang

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Ji Eun Jang ("JEJ") 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?

JEJ : Since 2004, I’ve worked in government agencies, the TV industry, ad agencies, and magazine publications as their graphic and web designer. With an emphasis in graphics, videography, photography and web design, I have experienced all aspects of what makes strong marketing sense and how to realize conceptual ideas.

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

JEJ : I aim to use my designs to create visuals used in everyday life that communicates what my clients want to say to their audience in an effective and efficient manner. Solving problems of an aesthetic nature motivates me.

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

JEJ : I chose to become a designer because I have the strengths and talent to communicate ideas visually.

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

JEJ : Layout and graphic design, videos, and websites. I don't have a preference, but I would take any opportunity that comes to me.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

JEJ : Seize any opportunity that comes to you and put all of your effort into them.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

JEJ : There is no such thing as good or great, or bad for that matter. Design appeals to different people, so it really depends on perspective.

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

JEJ : A good design knows how to approach its intended message to the target audience.

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

JEJ : The value of good design can last for ages and can set the precedent for future designers.

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

JEJ : I will make designs for anybody who requires my skills. I am open to anybody.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

JEJ : Research and analyzing trends. Being passionate and feeling it.

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

JEJ : Public Service Announcement advertisement. I like that my design could be displayed in public spaces

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

JEJ : Design is visual communication

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

JEJ : My parents are my biggest supporters

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

JEJ : Staying youthful, being open minded, having a positive mindset, learning, not being afraid to hear negative opinions.

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

JEJ : Overcoming differences in opinion with my clients.

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

JEJ : Being happy, enjoying my life as a designer through showing my art to the world

DL: How does design help create a better society?

JEJ : I believe a designer's role in society is to communicate ideas and marketing strategies in a sustainable manner that is both consumer-friendly and visually pleasing. This means helping businesses actualize their goals through visual mediums but also recommending environmentally and socially friendly ideas that help cut costs and maximize utility.

DL: What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

JEJ : I am currently working at the City of Los Angeles. I enjoy creating Public Service Announcements (PSA) because I feel enthusiasm and fulfillment when I see my designs in the public as it creates a better image of my city.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

JEJ : Be passionate, stay young and be positive .

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

JEJ : Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, Premier, After effect, Lightroom

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

JEJ : My favorite color is pink, favorite place is LA where I currently live, season is Spring in Korea, thing is going to new places and feeling the atmosphere

DL: Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

JEJ : When I was 28 I traveled to Italy for about 2 months. I had no destination. I just walked around and traveled to wherever the trains took me. I saw many beautiful and wonderful places in my voyage. It was funny in that this random act led me to my awakening, leading my path to become a designer.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

JEJ : When I was a little child I didn't even know I had the talent for art. My dad's hobby was taking videos and photos, and he always showed me music and art even though he is an engineer. He was a major influence to me in becoming a designer.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

JEJ : Feel enthusiasm, passion and enjoy your life. Design your life. Dream it and do it.