Interviews met Sanaz Ghafari

Growing up in the culturally rich city of Isfahan, I was surrounded by art and architecture that constantly inspired me. This environment cultivated my deep appreciation for design and craftsmanship. I pursued my passion by earning a Bachelor's and Master's degree in metal handicrafts, specializing in jewelry design. My academic journey allowed me to explore the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary aesthetics, which has become the hallmark of my work. This foundation not only honed my technical skills but also gave me the confidence to translate my creative visions into tangible, meaningful designs.

Design, for me, is a way to tell stories and connect with people on a deeply personal level. Growing up in Isfahan, surrounded by its stunning architecture, intricate patterns, and vibrant cultural heritage, I developed a fascination with how art shapes our experiences and emotions. This naturally drew me to design, where I could channel my creativity into something tangible and meaningful.

I became a designer because I believe in the transformative power of art—how a beautifully crafted piece can inspire, evoke emotions, and even bring joy to someone's life. Jewelry and eyewear, in particular, are such personal forms of self-expression, and I find immense fulfillment in creating designs that resonate with individuality and identity.

Becoming a designer was a choice that evolved naturally from my deep passion for art and creativity. From a adolescence age, I was drawn to the beauty and intricacy of design, particularly how it can merge artistic expression with functionality.

It was never about being forced into this path, but rather about finding a medium through which I could share my love for art while making a tangible impact on people's everyday lives. Design, to me, is a way of blending creativity with purpose, and it's something I truly chose because of the joy and fulfillment it brings me.

I primarily design jewelry and eyewear, drawing inspiration from visual arts and cultural heritage. My goal is to blend beauty, functionality, and emotional connection in my designs.

Looking forward, I would love to explore the intersection of art and technology, such as using innovative materials, sustainable practices, or creating interactive designs that enhance the wearer’s experience.

Ultimately, I aim to create designs that are not only beautiful but also practical for everyday use, allowing people to enjoy art in their daily lives.

To become a design legend, designers should first embrace the idea that inspiration can come from anywhere. Learn from everything around you—whether it's nature, architecture, or even everyday life. The key is to look at the world from different perspectives. Often, a simple shift in viewpoint can open up new creative possibilities. Keep your eyes and mind open, absorb what’s around you, and let that diverse input fuel your unique designs. I always remind myself that great design stems from curiosity and the ability to find the extraordinary in the ordinary.

What distinguishes a good designer from a great one is the ability to create work that is not only aesthetically appealing but also resonates with society. A great designer understands the needs, values, and cultural context of the people they design for. They craft designs that are accepted and appreciated by society, creating meaningful connections that go beyond the surface. It’s about creating work that has a lasting impact and is relevant to the people it serves.

A really good design goes beyond beauty and societal connection. It carries a deeper meaning and embodies innovation. It should challenge the audience, prompting them to think critically and perhaps even question their own beliefs. A good design isn’t just something that looks nice—it has the power to evoke thought, inspire change, and encourage a deeper understanding of the world around us. It makes people reflect and connect with something greater than the surface level.

The value of good design lies in its ability to improve experiences, solve problems, and enhance our daily lives. It’s not just about making things look aesthetically pleasing; it’s about creating functional, meaningful solutions that have a lasting impact. Good design can inspire, engage, and bring people together. It adds value to products, services, and environments, making them more efficient and enjoyable to use.

Investing in good design is essential because it elevates quality and creates a positive, lasting impression. Whether in business or personal life, good design fosters innovation, drives progress, and shapes the way we interact with the world.

If I had unlimited time, I would love to design pieces that explore the intersection of art, sustainability, and meaning of life. I’d like to create designs that challenge traditional boundaries, incorporating eco-friendly materials and innovative techniques while maintaining aesthetic appeal and functionality.

As for who I would design for, my focus would be on individuals who value both beauty and purpose in the items they use. I would create designs for those who appreciate artistry, functionality, and the stories behind each piece. Whether it's a jewelry lover or someone who seeks meaningful, sustainable products, I’d aim to create designs that resonate deeply with their values and elevate their daily experiences.

The dream project I haven’t yet had the chance to realize is one that allows me to express my deep connection to the universe and the meaning of life. I envision creating a piece or collection that helps people see both the vastness of the universe and their own place within it. It’s a large undertaking, but it’s something I’m inspired to pursue. Many great thinkers, like the Iranian poet Rumi, have captured this profound sense of life’s vastness in their works. My goal is to bring that same poetic expression into design, creating something that connects people to the universe and to themselves in a deeply meaningful way.

My secret ingredient for success in design is a combination of curiosity, empathy, and a constant search for meaning. I believe that being continuously curious and open to new ideas helps me push the boundaries of creativity. Empathy is equally important—understanding the people I design for, connecting with their needs, emotions, and experiences, allows me to create designs that truly resonate. Additionally, my search for meaning drives me to explore deeper concepts and to ensure that each design carries significance beyond just aesthetics. This balance of exploration, understanding, and purpose is what I consider my "recipe" for success in design.

Although there are great artists who inspire me, I might say that the greatest of them for me are poets, who have the unique ability to capture the essence of life and the universe in a few words. However, in the world of design, I’m inspired by people like Coco Chanel, whose innovation in fashion transformed the industry, and Yves Saint Laurent, who was known for blending elegance with modernity. I also admire the work of designers like Zaha Hadid, whose architectural designs challenge conventional forms and create new possibilities for the built environment.

There are several designs by other designers that deeply resonate with me. One of my favorites is the classic Chanel No. 5 bottle, designed by René Lalique. Its timeless elegance and simplicity have always fascinated me, as it perfectly embodies the harmony between function and art. The design transcends the product itself and becomes a symbol of luxury and sophistication.

I’m also drawn to Zaha Hadid’s architecture, particularly her design of the Guangzhou Opera House. Her ability to create fluid, organic forms that challenge traditional architectural boundaries inspires me. The way her designs seem to flow and interact with their environment makes her work a perfect example of art that lives within the space it occupies.

These designs stand out because they not only push the boundaries of creativity but also evoke a strong emotional response and convey a sense of purpose beyond aesthetics. They challenge conventions and inspire deeper thought, qualities I strive to incorporate into my own work.

Although I love my work, I don’t think I’ve designed my best piece yet. I’m always exploring new ideas, learning, and pushing my creativity further. Each design is a step in my journey, and I believe my greatest work is still ahead of me.

To become a better designer, people should focus on looking for stories and searching for meaning in everything around them. Great design often comes from understanding the deeper connections and stories behind the things we interact with every day. By seeking out meaning, whether in nature, culture, or personal experiences, designers can create work that resonates more deeply with people.

As for myself, I’ve always made it a point to not just focus on the visual aspects of design, but also to explore the underlying narratives and emotions that drive a piece. I continually ask myself why something is designed the way it is and what purpose it serves beyond the surface. This mindset helps me grow as a designer, constantly improving my ability to create work that is not only beautiful but also meaningful and impactful.

If I hadn’t become a designer, I think I would have pursued music. I’ve always been deeply interested in music, and I believe it shares a similar creative process to design—both are ways of expressing emotions and ideas. If I hadn’t chosen design, I would have likely tried to become a musician, exploring the art of sound and melody as a means of connecting with others.

For me, design is a way of communicating ideas, emotions, and stories through form, function, and aesthetics. It’s about creating something that resonates with people, whether it’s solving a problem, enhancing an experience, or simply evoking an emotional response. Design is a blend of art and practicality, a process that takes both creative thinking and empathy to craft something meaningful. Ultimately, design is a tool to make the world more engaging, functional, and beautiful, one that connects people to the objects, environments, and ideas that shape their lives.

Although many people have played a key role in my journey, such as my mother, my wife, and many of my teachers, I believe that another important source of support has come from other great artists. Their work has continuously inspired me and motivated me to pursue this path. The influence of these artists, through their creativity and dedication, has been crucial in shaping my approach to design and fueling my desire to push boundaries.

What helped me become a better designer is my constant curiosity and willingness to learn from everything around me. I’ve always sought inspiration in art, nature, and the stories people tell, and this has allowed me to find meaning and depth in my designs. Another important factor is my ability to reflect on my work and keep pushing beyond comfort zones. The support of my family, teachers, and the influence of great artists have also played a significant role in my growth, providing both encouragement and valuable lessons. Ultimately, the key has been a combination of hard work, continuous learning, and the drive to create meaningful designs that resonate with others.

One of the biggest obstacles I faced before becoming a design master was living in a country where art is not always valued or supported. Unfortunately, there are few facilities or opportunities for artists, and in many cases, the environment creates barriers to progress rather than fostering growth. Despite these challenges, I was determined to pursue my passion for design. I had to be resourceful, finding ways to learn, grow, and push my boundaries without relying on external support. Overcoming these obstacles has made my journey even more rewarding, as it taught me the value of perseverance and resilience in the face of adversity.

I believe designers should present their work in a way that tells a story and engages the audience on a deeper level. It’s not just about showcasing the final product but about communicating the thought process, the inspiration, and the purpose behind the design. Presentation should be thoughtful, highlighting the core values and concepts that drive the work, and creating a connection between the designer and the viewer. Whether through a portfolio, exhibition, or digital platform, the work should reflect not only the design itself but the designer's journey, showing how the work fits into a broader context and engages with the world.

I can’t say exactly what my next project will be, as I’m always exploring new ideas and possibilities. However, I do know that I’m constantly on the lookout for an opportunity to begin that big project I’ve been dreaming of—one that allows me to express my deep connection to the universe and the meaning of life through design. Whatever comes next, you can expect it to be something meaningful, innovative, and reflective of my ongoing creative journey.

My ultimate goal as a designer is to create work that helps people develop a deeper, more positive connection with the world and with themselves. I aim to design pieces that not only engage visually but also evoke emotions and inspire thought, allowing individuals to reflect on their surroundings and their place within it. Ultimately, I want my designs to contribute to a more meaningful and fulfilling experience of life.

People expect an esteemed designer to create work that is both innovative and meaningful—designs that not only push boundaries but also resonate deeply with those who experience them. They expect quality, attention to detail, and a design that serves a purpose beyond aesthetics. As a designer, it’s important to connect with the audience on an emotional level, creating pieces that provoke thought and offer new perspectives. People also look for a sense of authenticity, where the designer’s unique vision and values shine through in every project.

Design plays a crucial role in creating a better society by shaping the way we interact with the world around us. It has the power to improve functionality, enhance experiences, and address societal needs in meaningful ways. Thoughtful design can solve problems, increase accessibility, and create more inclusive environments, helping people connect and engage with one another in a positive way. Additionally, design can highlight the importance of nature, encouraging sustainability and a deeper connection to the environment. By incorporating natural elements and promoting eco-friendly solutions, design can inspire people to live more harmoniously with the world around them. Ultimately, design has the potential to shape not just objects and spaces, but also the values and ideals of society.

Currently, I’m exploring a new design project that blends art, nature, and functionality in a way I haven’t done before. I’m excited about pushing the boundaries of how design can engage with the environment and enhance people's daily experiences. This project combines my love for nature with a deep desire to create something that is both aesthetically captivating and sustainable. It’s still in the early stages, but I’m excited about the potential to create something that encourages a stronger connection to the natural world and promotes conscious living.

The design projects that have given me the most satisfaction are those where I’ve been able to combine art with functionality, while also connecting to something deeper and more meaningful. Additionally, projects where I’ve been able to incorporate elements of nature or sustainability have been especially satisfying, as they align with my belief in the importance of living harmoniously with the environment.

In the coming years, I’d love to see a stronger emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility within the design industry. As designers, we have the power to create products and experiences that not only serve functional purposes but also have a positive impact on the environment and society. I hope to see more innovation in eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient designs, and ethical production processes that minimize waste. Additionally, I believe there should be a greater focus on inclusivity and accessibility in design, ensuring that all people, regardless of background or ability, can benefit from well-designed spaces and products. Ultimately, I envision a design industry that not only creates beauty but also contributes to a more sustainable and equitable world.

I believe the design field is headed toward a more integrated and holistic approach, where technology, sustainability, and human experience are seamlessly woven together. We’re already seeing a rise in the use of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and other innovative tools that allow designers to push boundaries and create immersive, personalized experiences. At the same time, there’s a growing focus on sustainability, with designers exploring eco-friendly materials and production methods that minimize environmental impact. The future of design will likely involve a greater collaboration between disciplines, allowing for more inclusive, accessible, and socially responsible creations that address global challenges while enhancing the way we live.

The time it takes to finalize a design project depends on the scope and complexity of the project. For some designs, especially those that involve detailed research and multiple iterations, it can take several months to get everything right. On the other hand, more straightforward projects might be completed in a shorter time frame.

When I start a new design project, I begin by exploring the concept and understanding the purpose behind it. I take the time to research the target audience, the context, and the problem I’m trying to solve. I often draw inspiration from various sources, such as art, nature, and personal experiences, to inform the creative direction. Once I have a clear understanding of the project's goals and its broader context, I sketch initial ideas and begin refining them.

My life motto as a designer is to live life through the arts and help others do the same. I believe that art and design have the power to elevate our daily experiences, offering new perspectives and deeper connections to the world around us.

I believe it’s a bit of both. Designers often play a key role in setting trends by introducing innovative ideas and pushing boundaries, but trends also influence the direction of design as they reflect the cultural, technological, and social shifts of a given time. A great designer can spot emerging trends or even create them by taking risks and offering new perspectives. However, trends themselves are shaped by the collective mindset of society, and designers have to adapt to these changes while still maintaining their unique creative vision. Ultimately, it’s the interplay between trends and designers that drives the evolution of design.

Technology plays a significant role in my design process, as it allows me to explore new possibilities and streamline the creative process. It enables me to experiment with materials, refine details, and visualize concepts more effectively.

In my work, I use a combination of design software and tools to bring my ideas to life. I primarily use Matrix software for 3D modeling and rendering, especially for my jewelry designs. Photoshop is essential for refining visuals and creating detailed presentations.

Color, materials, and ambient elements are essential in design as they set the mood, enhance functionality, and influence the overall experience. Color evokes emotions, materials define texture and sustainability, and ambient elements like lighting create context and atmosphere. Together, they bring depth and meaning to the design.

I wish people would ask, "How can you imagine such deep meaning in your designs?" I love when people inquire about the inspiration and thought process behind my work, as it gives me the opportunity to explain the layers of meaning, the connection to art and nature, and the story behind each design.

When I see a new great design or product, the first thing that comes to my mind is, "What is its message and meaning?" I’m always curious about the deeper purpose behind a design—how it communicates with the audience, what it represents, and the story it tells. A great design not only stands out visually but also carries significance that resonates with its users.

My ideal design partner is someone who shares a similar passion for creativity, innovation, and meaningful design. I value collaboration with individuals who bring diverse perspectives, challenge ideas, and push boundaries. I absolutely believe in co-design, as it allows for the merging of different skills, experiences, and visions. Working together with someone who complements my strengths and fills in the gaps with their own expertise often results in stronger, more innovative designs that reflect a broader range of ideas and solutions.

The people who have had the most influence on my design are both the elderly and children. The older generation, with their wealth of experience, carries lessons of regret, joy, sorrow, and the wisdom of a lifetime. Their stories and perspectives often inspire me to reflect deeply on the human condition. On the other hand, children, with their boundless imagination and untainted view of the world, remind me of the importance of simplicity and wonder in design. Both groups shape my understanding of life and influence how I approach my creative work.

Books by Iranian poets, such as Rumi and Saadi, have had a profound effect on my design. Their poetry delves deeply into the human experience, exploring themes of love, wisdom, and the search for meaning, all of which inspire my creative process. Additionally, Dostoevsky's Crime and Punishment has influenced my design philosophy through its exploration of morality, psychology, and existential struggles.

I developed my skills as a designer by observing the world around me and listening to the silence. It’s not always about formal training, but rather about paying attention to the details, whether in nature, art, or human interaction.

I would want to meet Jalāl al-Dīn Muḥammad Rūmī, the Persian poet, to discuss the deeper meanings of life, love, and existence. His wisdom and poetic insights would be a great source of inspiration for my work and perspective.

I believe that anything is possible if you put in the effort and dedication. While awards and recognition are humbling, they are not the ultimate goal. The true reward is in the process of creation itself. Fame can be challenging, but it doesn’t change my focus on continuous growth and passion for design.

My favorite color is green, though I find all colors in the right combination to be equally pleasant. I love unspoiled and peaceful nature, as it brings a sense of tranquility. Iranian food holds a special place in my heart, and autumn is my favorite season for its crisp air and vibrant colors. As for brands, I admire Louis Vuitton for its timeless elegance and craftsmanship.

The truth is, doing art in my country creates memories every day that, although sad in the moment, I laugh about over time; But over time, I learned to laugh at how life as a designer can be full of unexpected moments—some frustrating, but ultimately part of the journey.

What makes my day great as a designer is when I discover something new in the world and find a way to apply it to my designs. Whether it's an interesting pattern in nature, a new idea, or a shift in perspective, these moments of inspiration fuel my creativity. I stay motivated by the excitement of constantly learning and evolving through my work, knowing that every day offers a chance to explore new ideas and challenge myself.

I can't say for sure, but I've been very interested in art and creative work since I was a child. From around the age of 10, I knew that my path would be in art. While I didn't know exactly where it would take me, my passion for creating and expressing myself through design was clear early on.

Who can be sure? But we all hope for a future that is kinder to ourselves and to nature. Whatever happens, I believe the future will be shaped by our actions today, and I hope we make choices that leave a positive impact on future generations.

I’m just trying my best to make the world a more beautiful place to live in, and I believe that’s our duty to life and the world. Everyone is an artist in their own way, with their own tools—mine just happens to be design. I hope my work can inspire others to see the beauty in the world and contribute to making it a better, more thoughtful place for all.

I started learning art since 17 years ago in a country which is known by its art - Iran -. Always explore the details is really attractive for me and art is one of the best way to deal with it.

explore the truth of the world and communicate to people

My eyes and after that my ability to Visualization

But from material perspective, I think the ability to draw by hand is the more important to the other techniques or etc

In the nature

the meaning as equal the beauty

peace of mind

When a design can show a new attitude to old things

for creativity we should search for different stories. either from books, movies, people and etc. It does not important where they are generated just you should the stories to create a new story

Creativity

Learn from each details in the life, environment, and life

I am really fascinated by books - actually by stories - and they are as a dominant source of my inspiration. After that I use hand drawing and software

It really depends on the type of design and it cannot be say a specific time

To explore the truth by art

I do not consider a design just from a commercial aspect and so I enjoy from working - a design - when it is consider as an artwork. Overall, I enjoy when do an artwork not a design

Try and try to become a professional designer

I have worked as a freelancer until now, although I always interests be as a member of a professional team work

It will be my pleasure if they contact me by email and whats up number

My Email: sanazghafari@ymail.com

My Number: 00989133672371

The fusion of authentic Iranian motifs in the "Beautiful Darkness" design is an artistic attempt to redefine the concept of beauty for those who view the world through a different lens. These motifs, symbolizing the richness and authenticity of our culture, are used here not to conceal, but to adorn and honor. This design serves as a reminder to individuals who have faced significant life challenges that their unique perspective on existence is valuable. We wanted to use the language of art to show that true beauty lies in inner strength and embracing differences; these patterns are a delicate reflection of that very beauty, now shining upon their visage.

The choice of these specific Iranian motifs aimed to create a bridge between our rich artistic tradition and modern design. These intricate and delicate interlaced patterns, often seen in our ancient architecture and handicrafts, symbolize perfection, balance, and timeless beauty. By applying these motifs to a part of the eyewear typically used for covering, we challenge the traditional concept of "hiding a flaw." These delicate metalworks attract the viewer's gaze rather than deflecting it, conveying a clear message: even in darkness or absence, stunning beauty can be found. These patterns shift the viewer's perception, evoking admiration for a work of art rather than a sense of pity.

Receiving the A' Design Award is a valuable international validation that gives global reach to our message. This recognition helps us demonstrate that design can operate beyond mere aesthetics and serve as a powerful tool for human empowerment. This award supports our mission to more effectively promote the idea that an assistive device can be a piece of high art. When such a design is acclaimed globally, it instills a greater sense of pride and confidence in those who wear it, showing society that their resilience and unique beauty should be viewed with admiration rather than pity.

These specific dimensions were carefully calculated to strike a balance between "coverage" and "aesthetics." The 50mm frame diameter provides ample canvas to showcase the intricate, interlaced details of the Iranian motifs, while being a standard size that sits beautifully on most face shapes and comfortably and completely covers the eye area. The 135mm handle length is a standard ergonomic size that ensures a secure fit on the face. This stability is particularly vital for this design, as it must maintain the balance of a frame that naturally carries different visual (and physical) weight on the side featuring the metalwork compared to the other.

The work began with simple hand sketches inspired by the traditional architecture and art of my hometown, Isfahan. My studies in handicrafts and jewelry design helped guide me in finding a way to bring these ideas to life. My approach to this project was more akin to crafting a piece of jewelry than merely designing eyewear. Experience working with metal gave me a better understanding of how to translate those delicate two-dimensional patterns into a wearable three-dimensional form. Essentially, I tried to use what I had learned to create a proper balance between the delicacy of traditional art and the functionality of a modern product.

This choice of materials directly reflects the name and concept of the piece, "Beautiful Darkness." The smokey glass symbolizes that part of vision or the world that has faded into darkness or ambiguity; a calm acceptance of absence. In contrast, the golden metal, with its inherent shine and warmth, represents hope, value, and the light that emerges from within this darkness. When this golden metal, in the form of authentic motifs, sits upon the smokey background, it conveys a clear message: even where light has dimmed, stunning value and beauty can be created. This contrast is a metaphor for the resilience of the human spirit, which can shine even in the most difficult circumstances.

In talking with these individuals, I discovered a shared sentiment: many were dissatisfied with existing devices that merely tried to "hide" the flaw, as these devices often attracted negative attention themselves. They wanted something that would give them a sense of pride rather than shame. This deep understanding shifted the design direction. We decided to focus on "adorning" rather than concealing. Functionally, we ensured the eyewear form provided complete physical comfort, but aesthetically, we acted boldly to create an item that one would wear with confidence, not as a medical necessity, but as a part of their personal style and expression of identity.

Although the appearance of the work is highly detailed and resembles fine handicrafts, its structure is designed to be manufacturable using modern technologies such as precise laser cutting or 3D metal printing. This use of modern technology offers two major advantages: first, it reduces production time and costs compared to purely traditional manual methods, making the product accessible to a wider audience. Second, the precision of these machines ensures that the delicacy and complexity of the original motifs are maintained with high quality in every produced piece, allowing us to have mass production without compromising any of the artistic value or design details.

Growing up in Isfahan is like living in a living museum. In the city's architecture, no detail is purely decorative or purely functional; everything is intertwined. A beautiful tiling is simultaneously a moisture barrier and a narrator of a cultural story. This philosophy is deeply rooted in my subconscious. When designing "Beautiful Darkness," it was natural for me to seek a way to view functionality (covering the eye) and beauty (traditional motifs) not as separate elements, but as a unified whole. Isfahan taught me that even the most utilitarian objects can and should carry the deepest cultural and aesthetic meanings.

The philosophy of "Beautiful Darkness" is just a beginning for me; the idea that "difference" can be a source of "beauty." In the future, I plan to expand this approach to other aspects of wearable design and jewelry. My focus will be on creating works that not only meet individuals' specific needs but also tell their unique stories. I want to use the rich language of Iranian art combined with modern design to create collections where each piece is a celebration of human diversity and a reminder that every scar or difference can be a foundation for the growth of a new and stunning beauty.