Di Lu

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Di Lu ("DL") 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?

DL : I hold two degrees in design. My undergraduate degree is in graphic design. I completed my MA from the Academy of Art University (AAU) in the United States and an MFA in design from the University of Southern California (USC), where I had the privilege of being taught by April Greiman. These educational experiences provided me with a solid foundation in both practical skills and conceptual thinking.

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

DL : I've always been passionate about the design industry. Even as a child, I was filled with curiosity about beauty and aesthetics. This curiosity and passion naturally led me to pursue a career in design. The ability to create something that not only looks good but also serves a purpose and solves problems is incredibly fulfilling to me.

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

DL : I chose to become a designer out of my own curiosity and passion for the field. From a young age, I was fascinated by the power of design to communicate ideas and evoke emotions. This fascination drove me to actively pursue a career in design.

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

DL : I primarily design visual systems and books. These projects allow me to explore different aspects of visual communication and storytelling. In the future, I hope to explore more motion design projects, as I believe motion adds a dynamic element to design that can greatly enhance the user experience.

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

DL : Young designers should always keep learning and stay passionate. Ask questions, be curious about every industry, and don't limit yourself to design alone. Engage with different fields, as this will broaden your perspective and enrich your design practice. Also, stay true to your vision and be persistent in honing your skills.

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

DL : A good designer serves the client's needs and gains their approval. A great designer, however, creates work that can change society. Great designers think beyond the immediate project and consider the broader impact of their work on culture, society, and the environment.

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

DL : A really good design resonates with people without needing an introduction. It is intuitive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. I evaluate good design based on how well it communicates its message, solves a problem, and creates an emotional connection with its audience.

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

DL : Good design can make people's lives more convenient and enjoyable. It enhances the user experience, increases efficiency, and can even evoke positive emotions. Investing in good design is crucial because it can lead to better products, services, and environments that improve overall quality of life.

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

DL : I would love to design for people with disabilities, contributing to solutions that make their mobility and daily activities easier. Designing for this community can have a profound impact on their quality of life and promote inclusivity.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

DL : My dream is to travel the world, constantly exploring and keeping my passion for design alive. I believe that exposure to different cultures, environments, and perspectives can inspire unique and innovative design solutions.

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

DL : Maintaining passion and designing anytime, anywhere is my secret ingredient. Staying curious, open-minded, and continuously seeking inspiration from the world around me helps fuel my creativity and drive.

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

DL : I learned a lot from my teacher April Greiman, who taught me to open my mind and focus on the layers of design. Her innovative approach and willingness to push boundaries have been a constant source of inspiration for me.

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

DL : My favorite works are by April Greiman. Her approach to design is bold, experimental, and thought-provoking. I admire her ability to seamlessly blend technology and art, creating visually stunning and conceptually rich pieces.

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

DL : My work for the Beijing 751 International Design Week stands out as my greatest design. It was a project that helped increase public awareness of the design industry and showcased the power of design to influence and inspire. The impact it had on both the audience and the design community makes it a significant achievement for me.

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

DL : Constant learning is key. Stay curious, seek new experiences, and never stop exploring different aspects of design and related fields. This approach will help you develop a deeper understanding and a more versatile skill set.

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

DL : I would have become a writer. Writing, like design, allows for creative expression and storytelling, which are passions of mine.

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

DL : Design is about solving societal problems. It is a process of creating solutions that improve people's lives and contribute to the betterment of society.

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

DL : My parents, who are both professors, have been my biggest supporters. They encouraged me to observe, travel, and interact with people, which greatly influenced my approach to design.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

DL : Continuous learning and a spirit of inquiry have been instrumental in my growth as a designer. Staying curious and open to new ideas has allowed me to evolve and improve my skills.

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

DL : Cultural differences were a significant obstacle. Adapting to different cultural contexts and understanding diverse perspectives was challenging but ultimately enriching.

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

DL : Designers should present their work on the web, utilizing digital platforms to reach a broader audience. A well-curated online portfolio can effectively showcase a designer's skills and style.

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

DL : My next project focuses on improving the social experiences of people with disabilities. You can expect innovative and inclusive design solutions that address real-world challenges.

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

DL : My ultimate goal is to use design to solve societal issues. I aspire to create work that has a positive impact on people's lives and contributes to a more inclusive and sustainable world.

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

DL : People expect innovative and impactful designs that address real-world problems. They also look for a thoughtful approach that considers the broader implications of design decisions.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

DL : Design can improve living conditions, enhance accessibility, and create more inclusive environments. It has the power to solve problems and improve the quality of life for individuals and communities.

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

DL : I'm currently excited about a project aimed at enhancing the social experiences of people with disabilities. This project has the potential to make a significant impact and promote inclusivity.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

DL : The Beijing 751 International Design Week gave me the most satisfaction because it increased public awareness of the design industry and showcased the power of design to influence and inspire.

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

DL : I hope to see more inclusive and accessible designs that address the needs of diverse populations. The industry should also prioritize sustainability and ethical practices.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

DL : I believe the design field will focus more on inclusivity and sustainability. Designers will increasingly address global challenges and create solutions that benefit society as a whole.

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

DL : Typically, it takes about a year to finalize a project. This timeframe allows for thorough research, development, and refinement of the design.

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

DL : I start with thorough research. Understanding the context, audience, and specific needs of the project is essential for creating effective and meaningful designs.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

DL : Stay curious and passionate. This mindset drives me to continuously learn and evolve as a designer.

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

DL : I believe design sets the trends. Innovative and thoughtful design can influence and shape cultural and industry trends.

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

DL : Technology plays a significant role in enabling innovative solutions. It provides tools and platforms that enhance creativity, efficiency, and the overall design process.

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

DL : I use various design software and equipment tailored to the specific needs of each project. These tools help me execute my ideas and bring my designs to life.

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

DL : Color, materials, and ambient are crucial in creating the desired aesthetic and functional outcome. They contribute to the overall experience and effectiveness of the design.

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

DL : I wish people would ask about the thought process and inspiration behind my designs. Understanding the story and rationale behind a design can provide deeper appreciation and insight.

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

DL : I think about the innovative aspects and how it can influence future designs. I also consider the problem it solves and the impact it has on its audience.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

DL : April Greiman is my ideal design partner. Yes, I believe in co-design. Collaborative efforts can lead to more innovative and well-rounded solutions.

DL: Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

DL : April Greiman had the most influence on my design approach. Her innovative thinking and willingness to push boundaries have been a constant source of inspiration.

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

DL : All the books I've read have contributed to my understanding and approach to design. They provide diverse perspectives and insights that enrich my practice.

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

DL : Through continuous learning and practical experience. Staying curious and open to new ideas has allowed me to evolve and improve my skills.

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

DL : I would love to meet and discuss with influential figures in design from different eras. Their insights and experiences would be incredibly valuable.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

DL : I feel honored by the recognition, and while fame can be challenging, it is also rewarding. It motivates me to continue creating meaningful work.

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

DL : My favorite color is pink, place is Tokyo, food is hot pot, season is spring, thing is a pencil, and brand is Maison Margiela.

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

DL : Once, during a project presentation, my carefully prepared slides got mixed up, leading to an impromptu and humorous explanation session that surprisingly impressed the audience.

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

DL : Seeing progress in my projects and finding new sources of inspiration keep me motivated. The satisfaction of solving design challenges and creating impactful work makes each day fulfilling.

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

DL : Yes, I was always curious about beauty and aesthetics, showing a clear inclination towards design from a young age. My passion for creativity and problem-solving was evident early on.

DL: What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

DL : I envision a future where design seamlessly integrates with technology to create a more inclusive and sustainable world. Innovations in design will continue to address global challenges and improve quality of life.

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

DL : I want my fans to know that my designs are driven by a passion for solving real-world problems and creating a positive impact on society. I am committed to continuous learning and exploring new possibilities to push the boundaries of design.