KAZUO FUKUSHIMA

I have had a strong interest in art and design since I was young. I studied mechanical engineering in college, but after graduation I went to design school and majored in graphic design, and after graduation I gained experience in many design studios. The passion for design has always been with me and I was especially attracted to this profession because of its ability to combine problem solving and creativity.

Shanghai FUDESIGN was founded to provide creative design solutions. We work in a wide variety of fields including brand design, graphic design and packaging design. Our goal is to connect our clients with their targets and provide designs that bring their vision to life.

Design is a tool for solving problems and evoking emotions. It is a holistic process that takes into account not only visual aesthetics, but also functionality and user experience.

I am particularly passionate about brand design. It is very rewarding to create a design that visually expresses the personality of a company or product and resonates with the target audience.

My favorite design is a branding project we did for a Yangmei client in Zhejiang Province. We were able to create a new logo, website, and marketing materials to refresh their brand image. Working closely with the client and bringing their vision to life was a very satisfying process.

The first project I designed for a design studio I worked at after college was a logo and tool design for a menswear exhibition. This was the beginning of my interest in brand design.

I am particularly fond of digital platforms, Adobe Creative Suite is my main tool, especially Illustrator and Photoshop.

I am most creative early in the morning. I find it easier to come up with new ideas and concentrate on my design work during the quieter times of the day.

During the design process, focus first on the concept and user experience. It is important that a design is not only visually pleasing, but also easy to use and functional.

During the design process, there is a mix of excitement and challenge. The process of bringing a new idea to life is always exciting, and you feel a sense of accomplishment as you do your best to solve a problem.

The moment a design is realized is a very emotional moment. I feel a great sense of accomplishment and joy, especially when I see that the client or user is satisfied and that the design is actually useful.

A successful design should not only be visually appealing, but also functional and easy to use. Successful design is also successful when it meets the needs of the target audience and communicates the brand or product message effectively.

First and foremost, consider the functionality of the design and the user experience. After that, evaluate visual aesthetics, consistency, and alignment with the brand's message.

Designers have a great responsibility to society and the environment. It is important to pursue designs that have a positive impact on society, as well as to use sustainable materials and adopt environmentally friendly design processes.

The design field in China is evolving rapidly, with digital and interactive design becoming increasingly important as technology advances. The design of the future will be increasingly personalized and user-centered rather than brand-driven.

Every year I exhibit my work at the A'design Award and win a prize. Other than that, I don't plan to exhibit in any other exhibitions.

Inspiration comes from nature, everyday scenery, art, music, and travel. I also regularly travel abroad to take in new cultures and ideas.

My design style emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and visual appeal. I was drawn to this style because I feel that by seeking a balance between visual beauty and functionality, I can create more effective designs.

I am Japanese and I live in Shanghai. The rich cultural heritage of your country affects my designs. In particular, traditional patterns and colors add a unique essence to contemporary design. On the other hand, I sometimes find it difficult to strike a balance between tradition and modernity due to rapid urbanization and globalization.

Working with companies begins with a deep understanding of the client's needs and vision. We then communicate closely at each stage of the project, always striving to provide design solutions that exceed expectations.

The first suggestion for companies to work effectively with a designer is to have a clear vision and goals. It is also important to maintain open communication and respect the designer's opinions and suggestions. To select a good designer, it is useful to carefully review their portfolio and evaluate the results of previous projects.

My design process consists of the following steps: 1:Research: I study the client's needs and market trends. 2.Brainstorming: I brainstorm initial ideas and develop concepts. 3.Sketching and prototyping: We give concrete form to the ideas. 4.Design production: Designs are finalized using digital tools. 5.Feedback and Revisions: Finalize the design based on client feedback.

1. horse milk wine bottle from Inner Mongolia 2. traditional pattern pants from Thailand 3. Tote bag with ethnic African Kenyan pattern 4. clay pot made in Shigaraki Yaki 5. Apple HomePod mini

My daily routine is as follows: I wake up early, do some light yoga, and have a cup of coffee. After that, I check my email, the news, and plan my day. Morning: I focus on client meetings and design work. Afternoon: After lunch, I continue design work and brainstorm with my team. Evening: Review project progress and prepare for the next day. Evening: I plan and cook my own dinner menu to relax and enjoy my hobbies.

My advice to young designers is to always be willing to keep learning and to try without fear of failure. Also, networking and interacting with other designers and industry professionals is important to broaden your perspective.

Positives are the ability to express yourself creatively, the constant new challenges, and the joy of exceeding client expectations. Negatives include the stress of meeting deadlines and disagreements with clients.

My "golden rule" in design is to keep it simple. A simple design is visually powerful and communicates a clear message.

The most important skills are creativity, problem solving, visual flair, technical skills (software proficiency), and communication skills.

My toolbox includes: * Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign) * Hardware: High performance computers, graphics tablets * References: design books, magazines, internet * Sources of inspiration: art galleries, nature, music, travel, indigenous culture

Prioritizing tasks using a task management tool is important for time management. Also, take regular breaks to stay focused and utilize time blocking to schedule your day efficiently.

Depending on the size and complexity of the design project, it can typically take from two weeks to several months. Time should be spent on each stage of the process: initial research, brainstorming, sketching, prototyping, feedback and revisions, and final design.

The most frequently asked question is, "Where do you get your inspiration? Many people are not sure where they get their creative ideas. Many people are interested in how you come up with creative ideas.

My most important job experience was a branding project for the Shanghai Yuyuan pastry gift boxes. For this project, I worked closely with the team to redesign the product as part of a larger brand strategy. This significantly increased the client's brand awareness and market value.

In particular, we have worked on many projects with clients in the technology companies, fashion brands, and food and beverage industries.

I enjoy brand design the most. It allows me to visually express the personality of a company or product and enhance the value of the brand. Working with clients to bring their brand stories to life is very rewarding.

In the future, I would like to work on more international projects and expand the influence of design from a global perspective. We also aim to focus on sustainable design and provide creative solutions that are environmentally conscious.

We work as a team. Each member brings different expertise and skills to the table, allowing us to provide more comprehensive and creative design solutions.

We have an ongoing branding project for a local Japanese start-up company. The company develops innovative eco-friendly products and is in the process of designing a logo, packaging design, and marketing materials to strengthen its brand identity.

To contact us, please use the contact form on our website or contact us directly at the following email address: * Email: zhouying@fudesign.org * Website: www.fudeisgn.org

One point not covered in previous questions is that we are active food and travel bloggers and have 100,000 followers on redbook in China. We are also actively involved in the community and have collaborative projects underway as local photo ambassadors.

I am Kazuo Fukushima, a Japanese graphic designer based in Shanghai. I currently run my own company, Shanghai FUDesign Co., Ltd. With over 15 years of experience in the design industry, I have worked with numerous clients, focusing particularly on incorporating traditional Japanese aesthetics into my designs.

My interest in design began in my childhood. I always loved drawing, which naturally led me to pursue a career in design. I studied design in university and gained experience working at several design studios. I have been greatly influenced by Japanese design masters such as Isamu Noguchi, Kaoru Kasai, and Nagi Noda.

In my design process, I prioritize simplicity, functionality, and visual beauty. My designs are characterized by a minimalist style, utilizing both digital tools and handcrafting techniques. When starting a new project, I focus on establishing a solid concept, which then guides the development of the design.

I always feel excitement and joy when designing. The initial brainstorming phase is particularly thrilling, as I enjoy coming up with new concepts. The sense of accomplishment when the final product is completed is also very fulfilling.

Traditional Japanese culture and aesthetics have greatly influenced my design work. Additionally, exposure to different cultures and diverse projects has been invaluable. Non-design skills such as communication and project management have also significantly contributed to my success as a designer.

In the future, I plan to expand my design studio and take on more international projects. I am also interested in projects that combine traditional Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary design. My dream is to work on projects that seamlessly blend these elements.

For young designers, I recommend gaining as much experience as possible to find your own style. It is important to continuously challenge yourself and not be afraid of failure. I have gone through many trials and errors to establish my identity.

To be successful, it is crucial to have a clear vision and pursue it diligently. While staying aware of the latest trends, it is equally important to maintain your uniqueness. Learning from other designers' works while honing your own style is key to success.

My day starts with checking design news. I use the morning to brainstorm new ideas and sketch. I then have meetings with clients and manage ongoing projects. Finding small joys in daily routines helps maintain my creative motivation.

I always keep an eye on the latest design trends, but I make sure not to lose my own style. Trends are useful for reference, but it is important to have a unique perspective. I often get inspiration from design magazines, exhibitions, and other designers' works.

Good design for me is defined by its simplicity, functionality, and emotional resonance. A well-designed product or project should solve a problem effectively and be aesthetically pleasing. It should evoke a sense of harmony and balance. One particular thing I look for is whether the design feels intuitive and natural. Common mistakes to avoid include overcomplicating the design and ignoring the user experience. The main criteria for judging a design include usability, aesthetics, and the ability to communicate its intended message clearly.

I decide a design is ready when it meets all the initial objectives and feels complete in its purpose and form. While it's true that designs can always be improved, there comes a point where further changes might detract from the original vision. I usually consider a design ready when it no longer requires significant iterations and aligns well with the client's needs and my own standards. This moment is often marked by a sense of satisfaction and confidence in the design's effectiveness.

One of my biggest design works is the branding project for a prominent Japanese fishing tackle company. This project was special because it allowed me to merge traditional Japanese elements with modern design principles. The initial aspiration was to create a brand identity that honored the company's heritage while appealing to a contemporary audience. The key aspects included a minimalist logo, a cohesive color palette, and a set of visual guidelines that ensured consistency across all mediums. This project was particularly challenging due to its scale and the need to balance tradition with innovation, but it also brought immense satisfaction.

My favorite designers are Isamu Noguchi, Kaoru Kasai, and Nagi Noda. These designers are cool because they seamlessly blend simplicity and creativity in their work. If I had the chance to talk with a single dead designer, it would be Isamu Noguchi. His ability to create designs that are both functional and deeply artistic has had a profound impact on my understanding of good design. Among all times, I consider Noguchi the most iconic designer, as he revolutionized how we perceive the relationship between art and utility.

Living in Shanghai, I draw inspiration from its vibrant blend of cultures and modernity. My favorite city is Tokyo, where the fusion of tradition and innovation never ceases to inspire me. Music is an integral part of my creative process, often helping me find the rhythm and flow in my designs. Japanese culture, with its emphasis on minimalism and attention to detail, deeply influences my projects. Good design, in my view, is essential for societal advancement as it enhances our everyday lives, making them more efficient and aesthetically pleasing.

Working at my company is a collaborative and dynamic experience. I work closely with partners who share my passion for design and my commitment to excellence. When selecting business partners, I look for creativity, reliability, and a shared vision. My work culture emphasizes open communication, continuous learning, and mutual respect. The core challenges of my profession include staying ahead of design trends while maintaining a unique style. Key characteristics for a good designer include creativity, adaptability, and a keen eye for detail.

As a designer, I believe in the importance of giving back to the community that has supported me throughout my career. I regularly engage in pro bono design work for non-profit organizations and community projects that align with my values. For example, I have designed promotional materials for local cultural events and created branding for charitable initiatives. I firmly believe that artists, designers, and architects have a unique ability to influence and improve society through their work. Involving ourselves in humanitarian projects allows us to use our skills for the greater good, fostering a sense of community and making a tangible difference in people's lives. Good design, for me, is about creating solutions that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and accessible to all.

Participating in the A’ Design Award has been an incredibly rewarding experience. One of the main benefits of entering design competitions is the exposure it provides. It offers an excellent platform to showcase your work to a global audience, which can lead to new opportunities and collaborations. Another significant benefit is the feedback from industry experts. The critique and insights from seasoned professionals can help refine your skills and approach to design. It also fosters a sense of community among designers, providing a space to network and share ideas. Finally, winning or being shortlisted for an award adds credibility to your work and can significantly boost your professional profile. It’s an acknowledgment of your hard work and creativity, which can be a great motivator. Design competitions are important because they push designers to innovate and excel. They challenge us to think outside the box and continuously improve our craft. Being named Designer of the Day is an honor that validates my efforts and inspires me to keep striving for excellence in my work.

I was born and raised in Japan and studied mechanical engineering at university. I then studied graphic design at design school and worked for 8 years in a Japanese design firm, where I honed my expertise. After these experiences, I moved to Shanghai and established my own design studio, Shanghai FUDESIGN.

My passion for design lies in combining visual beauty and functionality. I chose to become a designer because I felt that through design, I could enrich people's lives and provide inspiration.

Becoming a designer was my own choice. My childhood interest in art and the joy of creating naturally led me to design.

I am currently working in a wide range of fields including brand design, package design, and web design. In the future, I would like to work more on sustainable design and socially meaningful projects.

I encourage young designers to continue to learn and hone their style, and to never be afraid to try and fail. It is also important to interact with other professionals in the industry through networking and being open to feedback.

What distinguishes a good designer from a great designer is not only the ability to balance visual beauty and functionality, but also the ability to problem solve and the spirit of innovation. A great designer is always on the lookout for new ideas and provides solutions that deeply understand and exceed the needs of users.

Good design must be visually appealing, yet functional and easy to use. A truly good design is one that clearly communicates the brand's message and values. When evaluating, we focus on user experience, visual impact, and market response.

Good design can significantly increase the value of a product or service and increase brand credibility and awareness. The reason you should invest is that good design increases customer satisfaction, leads to repeat business, and ultimately leads to business success.

If I had the time, I would like to work on design projects that address environmental protection and social issues. I am particularly interested in designs that promote sustainable living and social projects for low-income communities.

m project you haven't yet had time to realize? My dream project is a cultural design project that combines local traditional crafts with contemporary design. Through this project, I hope to work with local artisans to create new values while preserving traditional skills.

My secret recipe for success is to stay curious and keep up with new technologies and trends. I also focus on deeply understanding the needs of our users and providing designs that exceed their expectations. My "secret ingredients" are passion and staying power.

Some Japanese design masters who have inspired me include Isamu Noguchi, Kaoru Kasai, and Nagi Noda. Isamu Noguchi's sculptures and designs always inspire my creativity because of their organic shapes and their harmony with space. Kaoru Kasai's graphic designs are simple yet visually powerful and extremely sophisticated. Nagi Noda's unique and playful designs delight and surprise the viewer and expand the possibilities of design.

Isamu Noguchi's Akari Light Sculpture is a particular favorite. His work is characterized by an organic design that skillfully balances light and shadow, bringing a soft warmth to the space. Kaoru Kasai's graphic designs, especially his poster works, are simple yet visually powerful and extremely sophisticated. His designs impress with their ability to convey a strong message with few elements. In Nagi Noda's work, I love her advertising design and art direction. Her unique and playful style always surprises and delights the viewer and expands the possibilities of design.

My proudest design was the Shanghai Yuyuan gift box branding project. For this project, I worked closely with the team to reimagine the design as part of a larger brand strategy. This significantly increased the client's brand awareness and market value.

To grow as a designer, it is important to keep learning. Learning new techniques and trends and observing different areas of design helps. I myself regularly attend workshops and seminars and try to be open to feedback from other designers.

If I hadn't become a designer, I would have become a carpenter. Architecture is another creative profession that combines functionality and beauty, and is a field that interests me.

Design is a means of problem solving and expression. Design is not only about visual beauty, but also about functionality, user experience, and communicating a message. To me, design has the power to enrich people's lives and have a positive impact.

My family, friends, and wonderful mentors have supported me throughout my career. In particular, my supervisor at my first design agency shared a lot of knowledge and experience with me and helped me grow.