Alexey Borisov

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Alexey Borisov ("AB") 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?

AB : My transition from classical art to design happened spontaneously during a time of significant changes in Russia. It was a period when specialized educational institutions in design were scarce, and the demand for design work was high. I had to learn about Western design examples and trends on the go. My first job was a dream come true, surpassing my expectations. After completing my education at an art lyceum, I landed a job at a newly established DVD authoring studio. At that time, there were only a few such studios in the country. I had to jump right into work while simultaneously learning how to create printing and animated menus for licensed DVD discs, adapting graphics for the Russian market. This experience solidified my dedication to motion design and set me on a path of continuous improvement in this field.

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

AB : The technologies surrounding us carry an incredible amount of information, at this stage, it will stand out among the huge mass of information, it is necessary to invest in a recognizable and understandable design, tell your future client or consumer of your services all the necessary information to attract attention in one or two seconds of viewing.

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

AB : Is are some ways in which people can enhance their skills and become better designers, based on my own experiences It's crucial to have a solid understanding of design principles, composition, color theory, typography, and other fundamental aspects. Keeping up with the latest industry trends and staying informed about advancements in technology can help designers stay relevant and adapt to changing design landscapes. Surround yourself with inspiration from various sources, such as design blogs, social media platforms, art exhibitions. Drawing inspiration from different disciplines can spark new ideas and push you to explore innovative design solutions. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new approaches. Experimentation allows you to discover unique design styles, techniques, and workflows. Taking calculated risks can lead to breakthrough moments and help you evolve as a designer. Seek feedback and learn from critiques. Practice is key to improving any skill. Set aside dedicated time for design exercises, personal projects, and challenges. Consistent practice hones your technical skills, fosters creativity, and allows you to refine your design process.

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

AB : There are many creative professions from which this director, videographer, chose for himself.

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

AB : In good design, you can see the logo or text, but also the context and hidden meaning, which is not obvious to most but is revealed if you begin to comprehend what you see.

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

AB : As a motion design professional, I encountered several obstacles on my journey to becoming a design master. Developing the necessary skills and expertise in design was a significant obstacle. I had to invest time and effort in mastering various software tools and mastering different techniques used in motion design. Building a strong portfolio and gaining practical experience were crucial challenges. As a beginner, it was difficult to find opportunities to work on real projects and showcase my skills. I had to seek out freelance work, take on personal projects, or collaborate with others to build a portfolio that demonstrated my capabilities and unique style. Balancing multiple projects and meeting deadlines was a major obstacle. Meeting client expectations and delivering high-quality work within limited timeframes required effective time management skills. I had to learn how to prioritize tasks, set realistic deadlines, and maintain a productive workflow to ensure timely project completion. Effective communication with clients posed a challenge. Understanding their needs, interpreting their feedback, and aligning their vision with my design approach required clear and concise communication. Developing strong client management skills, active listening, and being able to articulate design decisions were essential to overcome this obstacle. Also learning to embrace constructive criticism, adapt designs based on feedback, and use setbacks as opportunities for growth and improvement. It required a commitment to lifelong learning, staying updated with industry trends, and adapting to new practices and techniques.

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

AB : Designers should present their work in a visually appealing and engaging manner, while effectively communicating the story, goals, and context behind each project. By showcasing their range, collaboration skills, and openness to feedback, designers can create impactful presentations that leave a lasting impression on potential clients or employers.

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

AB : In the near future, my goal is to actively participate in cinematographic projects, specifically in the creation of visual effects and intro graphics for films and documentaries. I am enthusiastic about contributing my skills and expertise to enhance the visual storytelling experience in the world of cinema.

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

AB : As a designer, my ultimate goal is to create meaningful and impactful experiences through my work. I strive to use design as a powerful tool to communicate ideas, evoke emotions, and inspire change. I aspire to collaborate on projects that push boundaries, challenge conventions, and leave a lasting impression on viewers. It is important to me that my designs not only fulfill the client's objectives but also resonate with the target audience. I believe in the power of storytelling and aim to convey narratives through my design work, creating a connection between the message and the viewer. Ultimately, my goal is to leave a positive mark through my designs, whether it's by inspiring, entertaining, or conveying important messages. I want to contribute to the ever-evolving world of design and make a difference in how people perceive and interact with visual media.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

AB : People often expect a combination of technical expertise, creativity, and the ability to deliver exclusive design solutions. Timeliness, professionalism, and attention to detail are also important expectations, as clients and colleagues rely on me to deliver high-quality work within deadlines. In addition to technical skills and a strong creative flair, people expect me to be adaptable and versatile. They look for versatility in my design style, as well as the ability to adapt to different project requirements and target audiences. Whether it's working on a documentary, film, or commercial project, they expect me to bring a fresh perspective and add value through my design expertise.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

AB : Design can be a powerful tool for raising awareness and addressing social issues. Through visually impactful and thought-provoking designs, we can shed light on important topics such as sustainability, inclusivity, equality, and social justice.

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

AB : The time required to finalize a design project can vary depending on its complexity, scope, and specific requirements. Generally, it is difficult to give an exact timeframe as each project is unique. However, on average, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks to complete a design project. Factors that influence the timeline include the size of the project team, availability of resources, client feedback and revisions, and the intricacy of the design elements. It is crucial to allocate sufficient time for ideation, conceptualization, research, design development. Ultimately, the goal is to strike a balance between efficiency and quality.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

AB : To start working on a new design, you need to collect all the information, collect keywords, and necessary references, and choose colors according to the general mood, after that, a general abstract image is formed, after which the image crystallizes, all unnecessary are removed.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

AB : As a motion design professional, my life motto is "Innovate, Inspire, Impact." This simple yet powerful motto encapsulates my approach to design and serves as a guiding principle in my work.

DL: Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

AB : As a motion design, I strive to strike a balance between setting trends and embracing them. I aim to bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to my designs while staying attuned to the current trends. By understanding the interplay between design and trends, I can create visually designs that are both cutting-edge and relevant to the ever-changing design landscape.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

AB : In essence, technology is an indispensable ally in my design journey. It empowers me to unleash my creativity, explore new possibilities, and deliver visually compelling experiences. By embracing technology and leveraging its capabilities, I can push the boundaries of motion design.

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

AB : Technology allows me to bring my design concepts to life through various software applications specifically tailored for motion design. Programs like After Effects, Cinema 4D, and Blender provide me with a wide range of capabilities to create dynamic animations, 3D visuals, and captivating visual effects. These tools empower me to push the boundaries of design, explore new techniques.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

AB : Ambient, or the surrounding environment, plays a role in setting the mood and context of a design. Whether it's the lighting, the spatial arrangement, or the atmospheric effects, ambient factors. By carefully crafting the ambient elements, I can establish a specific narrative setting, create a sense of depth and dimension, and evoke a desired emotional response. Whether it's a cozy and warm environment, a futuristic and sleek atmosphere, or a dramatic and mysterious setting, the ambient elements contribute to the overall impact and immersion of a design.

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

AB : As a motion design, what makes my day great is the satisfaction of bringing ideas to life. The joy of seeing a design project come together, whether it's an animation, a video, or a graphic composition, is incredibly rewarding. To stay motivated, I constantly seek inspiration from various sources, such as art, nature, films, and other designers' works. Exploring different styles, techniques, and trends helps fuel my creativity and pushes me to think outside the box. Additionally, I believe in setting goals and challenging myself to constantly improve my skills.