Maja Kirovska

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Maja Kirovska ("MK") 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?

MK : I got my BA degree from the Faculty of Fine Arts at Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Macedonia, in 2007, majoring in Graphic Art with Graphic Design and Fashion Design, and receiving recognition as the top graphic art student. Following that, I completed a master's degree in Painting in 2011 from the same university. I've also pursued postgraduate studies in Film and TV Camera at the University of Audio-visual Arts – European Film and Theatre Academy ESRA, Skopje. Since 2013 till 2918, I've had the privilege of serving as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Art and Design at the European University – Republic of Macedonia, where I teach courses in Graphic Design Principles, Photography, and Multimedia. This journey has enriched my perspective and allowed me to integrate diverse artistic influences into both my teaching and creative practice.

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

MK : My motivation to design stems from a lifelong passion for artistic expression and a fascination with the intersection of creativity and practicality. Growing up immersed in art, I was drawn to the power of visual communication and the ability to evoke emotions and provoke thoughts through design. Becoming a designer was a natural progression, driven by a desire to channel my creativity into meaningful and impactful visual experiences.

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

MK : It was a lifelong passion, and at a point in my life as a teenager I gave the opportunity to explore other spheres and professions that I might like more, and I choose to go tо go to Gymnasium as high school that gives you wide knoledge prepares you for any type of higher education. Anyway, after finishing I chose to study Art and design. I graduated with my BA degree majoring in Graphic Art with Graphic Design and Fashion Design, and then MA in Painting.

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

MK : Becoming a designer was not a choice I made lightly, it has been a lifelong passion that has driven me to constantly upgrade my skills and knowledge in the world of art and design. As a teenager, I had the opportunity to explore various paths and contemplate other career options. Despite considering different paths, my heart always gravitated towards the world of creativity and design. After completing my Gymnasium education, where I acquired a broad knowledge base that prepared me for any field of higher education, decided firmly to pursue my passion for art and design. I followed this path obtaining my Bachelor's degree in Graphic Art with additional specializations in Graphic Design and Fashion Design. I furthered my education by completing a Master's degree in Painting. This journey of academic and artistic development has equipped me with the necessary skills and knowledge for development as artist and designer throughout my career.

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

MK : To become a design legend, young designers should work with dedication, continually master their skills, and broaden their knowledge. Staying updated with new trends and using contemporary tools like social media to showcase their work to a wider audience can be very helpful. Additionally, maintaining neat documentation of their work and presenting it professionally online can increase their impact. By combining hard work, skill development, and effective self-promotion, young designers can make a significant impact in the field.

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

MK : A great designer is a person with extraordinary skills and talent who can combine elements in a unique way, anticipating impactful results. They go beyond mastering the basics by understanding the emotional and psychological impact of design, pushing creative boundaries, and consistently delivering memorable solutions.

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

MK : A really good design makes an impact and communicates its message at first glance. Upon closer inspection, it reveals itself to be functional, innovative, clear, and consistent. It has the ability to capture attention immediately, convey its message effectively, and maintain functionality while showcasing creativity and coherence in every detail.

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

MK : Good design shapes our environment and our world, creating better conditions for everyone. Investing in good design is crucial because it not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also improves functionality and user experience. For entities like companies, a well-crafted visual identity can significantly influence how they are perceived by the world, impacting their work and success.

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

MK : If I had the time, I would prioritize designing art installations for my personal exhibitions, as I am primarily an artist and then a designer. Currently, my focus is mainly on art installations, which allow me to express my creativity and deeply connect with audiences. I enjoy experimenting with new materials and media, combining them to explore innovative approaches.

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

MK : I prefer not to discuss projects I haven't yet had the opportunity to realize. In the creative industry it's important to nurture and protect innovative ideas until they can be fully developed and implemented.

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

MK : It is rooted in my innate curiosity and eagerness to learn. I thrive on exploring eclectic approaches, fearlessly combining elements in unexpected ways that defy conventional expectations. This openness to experimentation allows me to create designs that are innovative and captivating.

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

MK : Many contemporary masters and masters from art history have left a profound imprint in my mind, like a richly detailed book that consciously or unconsciously guides my designs. I deeply admire I deeply admire Constantin Brâncuşi, Michelangelo, Max Ernst, and Toulouse-Lautrec.

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

MK : I particularly admire Brâncuşi's artworks such as "Beginning of the World" and "Bird in Space". These sculptures are genius and timeless, capturing the essence of their concepts in beautifully simple forms. What fascinates me most is how their ideas are conveyed with such clarity, effortlessly transcending language to resonate directly with the mind.

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

MK : I guess there was no alternative, as I have always ben drawn to art and design. it’s hard to imagine pursuing another path. However, if circumstances had prevented me from becoming a designer, I might have chosen to explore programming or even pursued a career in science. The analytical challenges and problem-solving aspects of scientific research would have been a fascinating alternative.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

MK : Design is instrumental in cultivating a better society by profoundly shaping our environment and daily experiences. It enhances aesthetic appeal, improves functionality, and enriches user interactions, thereby elevating quality of life. Beyond aesthetics, good design fosters sustainability by promoting environmentally conscious solutions. Socially engaged design goes further, addressing critical societal challenges and driving positive change within communities. By integrating creativity with empathy and innovation, designers play a pivotal role in creating spaces, products, and systems that not only meet practical needs but also contribute to a more inclusive and resilient society.

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

MK : Designers play a crucial role in shaping trends. They create diverse paths of innovation and expression, and what resonates with the majority often evolves into a trend. Great designers, with their unique perspectives and groundbreaking ideas, have the ability to influence and set these trends

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

MK : Color plays a important role in both my artworks and personal style. I enjoy using a full spectrum of hues in my artworks, and dressing in vivid colors. My work is often described as vibrant and lively because of this colorful palette. During my travels, I've been deeply inspired by small towns with old architecture, great restaurants, and a serene atmosphere. Places like Ponte de Lima in Portugal and Afitos in Greece have left a lasting impact on me, evoking a sense of relaxation. Ponte de Lima is a place I would like to visit again, while I visit Afitos almost every year. Exploring different cuisines is another passion of mine; I particularly enjoy the diverse flavors and spices found in Asian food.

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

MK : From a young age, my deep affection for drawing was quite apparent. I could sit and draw for hours, content with just paper and pen, being entertained without any toys. This early passion was recognized early on by my parents and grandparents provided unwavering support and it was noticed and nurtured by my teachers in kindergarten and later in school. Their support helped guide me towards an education in the arts.