Haimeng Cao

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Haimeng Cao ("HC") 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?

HC : I have a background in visual storytelling with a focus on concept art for the film and game industry. I hold a degree in Fine Arts, which provided a strong foundation in traditional art techniques. Over the years, I have honed my skills through professional experiences with notable clients like Blizzard Entertainment and Gearbox Software, blending my formal education with hands-on industry knowledge to create immersive and compelling designs.

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

HC : My motivation to design stems from a lifelong passion for visual storytelling and creating immersive worlds. As a child, I was captivated by fictional stories and the idea of bringing them to life through art. This drive led me to pursue a career in design, allowing me to blend creativity with technical skills to communicate ideas and narratives that inspire and engage audiences.

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

HC : I specialize in concept art and storyboarding for the film and game industry, creating detailed environments, characters, and scenes that bring narratives to life. Moving forward, I wish to design more original stories with rich, immersive worlds, particularly in the sci-fi and adventure genres. I aim to explore and visualize unique architectural elements and blend them with anime-inspired aesthetics to create captivating and innovative designs.

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

HC : To become a design legend, young designers should constantly hone their skills, stay curious, and never stop learning. Build a diverse and impressive portfolio, seek feedback, and be open to constructive criticism. Network with industry professionals, stay updated on trends, and embrace new technologies. Most importantly, maintain passion and persistence, as these drive creativity and innovation, ultimately setting you apart in the design world.

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

HC : A really good design seamlessly blends aesthetics, functionality, and storytelling. It effectively communicates its intended message and meets the needs of its audience. I evaluate good design by assessing its clarity, usability, and emotional impact. The design should solve a problem or enhance an experience while being visually appealing and coherent. Additionally, it should demonstrate creativity, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of design principles and user needs.

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

HC : My secret recipe for success in design is a blend of passion, continuous learning, and resilience. The secret ingredient is curiosity—constantly exploring new ideas, techniques, and perspectives keeps my work fresh and innovative. Combining a deep understanding of design principles with a willingness to experiment and adapt ensures that my designs are both effective and inspiring. Embracing feedback and staying committed to growth also play crucial roles in achieving success.

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

HC : My greatest design is a concept art project for a sci-fi game environment that I worked on with Gearbox Software. What makes it stand out is how it effectively integrates detailed world-building with storytelling. The design showcases intricate architectural elements, immersive lighting, and a cohesive visual style that enhances the narrative. Its ability to evoke emotion, create a sense of place, and support the overall gameplay experience demonstrates the depth and impact of the design.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

HC : Becoming a great designer involved a combination of continuous learning, hands-on experience, and passion for creativity. Exposure to diverse design influences, from architecture to storytelling, expanded my skills and perspective. Embracing feedback, staying curious, and persistently refining my craft were key. Collaborating with talented professionals and working on challenging projects also played a significant role in developing my expertise and design sensibility.

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

HC : Designers should present their work clearly and effectively to communicate their vision and process. A well-organized portfolio showcasing a range of projects, including detailed case studies and project descriptions, is essential. Use high-quality visuals, such as images, videos, and interactive elements, to highlight the design’s key features and impact. Providing context about the design challenges, solutions, and your role in the project helps demonstrate your skills and thought process. Tailoring the presentation to the audience’s needs and using storytelling techniques can make the work more engaging and memorable.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

HC : Design helps create a better society by addressing real-world problems and enhancing the quality of life. Thoughtful design improves functionality, accessibility, and sustainability, making everyday tasks easier and more efficient. It fosters inclusive environments by considering diverse user needs and promoting equality. Additionally, design can inspire and educate, encouraging positive social change and innovation. By combining aesthetics with purpose, design plays a crucial role in shaping a more harmonious and advanced society.

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

HC : I am currently working on my own story, focusing on storyboarding and concept design. This project blends themes of sci-fi, adventure, architecture, and anime style. I am particularly excited about exploring these diverse elements and creating a unique, immersive narrative that showcases my creativity and storytelling skills. This project represents a personal passion and a significant step in developing my original content.

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

HC : In the coming years, I would like to see the design industry place greater emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Integrating sustainable materials and processes can significantly reduce environmental impact. Additionally, fostering greater diversity and inclusion within design teams can bring fresh perspectives and ideas. Finally, I hope for more collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches, leveraging advancements in technology to push creative boundaries and create more innovative and user-centered designs.

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

HC : The time required to finalize a design project varies based on its complexity. For simpler projects, it might take a few weeks, while more intricate designs can take several months. The process involves stages such as research, concept development, iteration, and refinement. Each stage requires careful attention and adjustments based on feedback to ensure the final design meets the desired standards and objectives.

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

HC : Design both sets and responds to trends. Designers often push boundaries and introduce new concepts that can influence and shape trends. Conversely, trends reflect the evolving preferences and technological advancements of society, which designers then interpret and incorporate into their work. This dynamic interaction ensures that design remains relevant and forward-thinking while staying in tune with current cultural and industry shifts.

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

HC : The book Dieter Rams: Ten Principles for Good Design has had a profound effect on my design approach. Rams' principles emphasize simplicity, functionality, and clarity, which have deeply influenced my understanding of effective design. His focus on creating designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and purposeful has shaped how I approach and evaluate my own work.

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

HC : A great day as a designer involves making meaningful progress on projects, finding creative solutions to design challenges, and receiving positive feedback. I motivate myself by setting clear goals and celebrating small achievements. Engaging with inspiring content, such as films, architecture, and art, also fuels my creativity. Regularly connecting with fellow designers and staying curious about new techniques help keep my passion alive and my work fresh.

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

HC : I’d like my fans to know that my design work is driven by a deep passion for storytelling and creativity. I strive to create immersive and visually compelling experiences that resonate with audiences. Each project is a journey of exploration and discovery, and I’m dedicated to blending diverse influences to bring unique narratives to life. Your support and feedback are invaluable to me, and I look forward to sharing more of my creative endeavors with you.