Andrew Lam

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Andrew Lam ("AL") 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?

AL : After earning a BFA in Animation, I spent ten years thriving as a producer in the animation, VFX, and gaming industries. I initially launched my career as a concept artist in gaming, gradually advancing to project management roles. In 2015, I seized the opportunity to partner with a friend who owned a goldsmith workshop, where I took on the challenge of modernizing the factory and exploring innovative 3D printing technology. This role also allowed me to delve into artistic endeavors, as I designed samples to test and refine the new processes. As the factory evolved, I shifted my focus toward design and ultimately became a jewelry designer. My unique background in gaming and animation informs my creative approach, distinguishing my jewelry designs from traditional styles.

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

AL : Many aspects of our daily lives can become so familiar that we become numb to their shortcomings, often accepting things that are not user-friendly. However, I believe that with a little extra effort, we can enhance these experiences and make life smoother for everyone. By focusing on improving our surroundings, we can positively contribute to society and uplift the quality of life for others. It's important that we actively engage in this process and give back to the community.

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

AL : I chose to pursue my own path, even though my parents initially suggested I follow in my brother's footsteps and study engineering. I am grateful for their unwavering support when they understood my desire to pursue my own interests

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

AL : As a jewelry designer, I aspire to create more pieces that resonate deeply with my audience, enabling them to express their unique individuality. As a jewelry designer, I aspire to create more pieces that resonate deeply with my audience, enabling them to express their unique individuality.

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

AL : Continuous learning and consistent execution are crucial for skill development. Only through consistent practice can you refine and enhance your abilities.

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

AL : A good designer fulfills the project requirements and delivers the expected outcome. A great designer exceeds expectations, pushing the boundaries of design and creating innovative solutions.

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

AL : In my opinion, effective design communicates clearly. Minimal instruction is necessary, as the user intuitively understands how to interact with it. This is the essence of user-friendliness.

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

AL : Our lives are increasingly complex, with a constant influx of new products and services. To make matters worse, these offerings are becoming increasingly diverse. Effective design plays a crucial role in mitigating this 'cross-confusion' by simplifying and streamlining our interactions with this complex landscape, ultimately making our lives easier to navigate.

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

AL : Learn, execute, then listen and adapt.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

AL : HR Giger is one of the greatest artists I admire. He possessed the unique ability to translate the organic world into a distinct and profoundly unsettling design language of his own.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

AL : Success hinges on consistent practice and diligent execution. When faced with uncertainty, conduct thorough research and then return to the drawing board to refine your approach.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

AL : I am passionate about education and currently serve as a Senior Lecturer at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, a globally renowned institution consistently ranked among the world's top universities.

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

AL : Design is fundamentally about improvement. Its core function is to enhance situations, products, environments, visuals, usability, and more.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

AL : Determination is crucial, especially during periods of uncertainty. It requires a clear understanding of your objectives and the unwavering resolve to achieve them.

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

AL : In today's digital age, online platforms offer exceptional opportunities for learning and growth. Whether it's group sharing, forum discussions, or competitive showcases, online platforms provide a valuable space to present your work and receive constructive criticism.

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

AL : I am expanding my jewelry collection to offer my customers a wider selection of designs in different category.

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

AL : I aspire to redefine the concept of jewelry by creating pieces that seamlessly integrate with the wearer, much like a wearable tattoo, blurring the lines between adornment and personal expression

DL: What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

AL : With the advent of AI, I anticipate a significant leap forward in 3D design. AI's ability to analyze patterns and predict outcomes could revolutionize the creative process, enabling designers to explore a wider range of possibilities and accelerate their workflow. Imagine AI tools that can anticipate your next design move, suggesting variations or even generating entirely new concepts based on your established style. This could unlock unprecedented levels of creativity and efficiency in the 3D design space.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

AL : The initial concept and digital realization typically take about 2-3 days. However, I prefer to spread out this phase to maintain a fresh perspective on the design. The technical aspects, such as checking thickness and other details, are more time-consuming. Therefore, I estimate the total process to take around 1 week.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

AL : Transcend traditional perceptions and infuse products with new meaning and vitality.

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

AL : Google, zbrush, RhinoGold, Photoshop and 3D printer.

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

AL : Learn, execute, then listen and adapt.

DL: What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

AL : Engaging with customers and receiving their feedback is invaluable. Selling my designs online allows me to directly access customer opinions through written reviews. It's incredibly rewarding to receive positive feedback and know that my designs are appreciated.

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

AL : As a child, I instinctively gravitated towards creative expression, transforming any surface, including walls, into my personal canvas.

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

AL : As an avid gamer, I'm deeply drawn to the worlds of fantasy art and film. I'm particularly captivated by experiences that challenge conventional aesthetics and push the boundaries of visual expression.