An interview with an overseas winner
Guo Chenkai
“Embrace Note”
2023 Merit Award
Embrace Note lines gradually fade away from left to right, blending in with blank spaces to create a soft border. It can be used flexibly like a notebook or a memo pad depending on the purpose, and it also provides a natural and slightly resonant writing feel.
―― Please tell us why you applied to the KOKUYO DESIGN AWARD.
I learned about the KOKUYO DESIGN AWARD through design-related media. It has been held for 20 years and many of the award-winning works gave me hints. I thought it was worth taking it on.
―― What did you think when you learned that you were chosen as a finalist?
I was very surprised. I had to make a model for the final judging, but looking at past works, I felt that all of them had a high level of quality. I thought it was important to make a solid plan in order to make a high-quality model of the work within a limited amount of time.
―― Were you worried about your presentation in Japan?
I didn't have any particular concerns. The professional staff supported me in obtaining the visas that I needed to travel, so it went off smoothly.
Also, the interpreter who accompanied me on the day of the final judging was professional and I felt reassured.
―― Was there anything that left an impression on you at the final judging?
Embrace Note is a work of minimal design. I was very happy that the judges positively evaluated the psychological effects caused by this subtle change.
In particular, comments from Teruhiro Yanagihara and Satoshi Yoshiizumi allowed me to think about the possibility of creating an Embrace Note series, which opened up more room for imagination to deepen the design.
After the award ceremony, we were able to interact with the judges and other finalists in a relaxed atmosphere.
―― Through your experience at this event, what did you find to be the most appealing aspect of the KOKUYO DESIGN AWARD?
Some of the most appealing aspects of the KOKUYO DESIGN AWARD are that it receives a wide range of entries and that its judges have diverse and inclusive perspectives.
―― What would you like to say to those who are thinking about applying?
The KOKUYO DESIGN AWARD is one of Japan's leading design competitions, and you can get a lot of inspiration from previous award-winning works. On the other hand, when you're creating a work, you might be able to find a starting point based on real experiences and perceptions rather than formalized thoughts. I'm looking forward to seeing the fascinating works that people from different parts of the world create.
