Where did you study?
I studied at Northumbria University, 3D Design: Product and Furniture
Name of your lecturer – course tutor?
Rickard Wittingham
Philip Luscombe
Joshua South
Joe Smith
Have you got a creative mission statement?
As twenty-first-century designers, I feel we bear a dual responsibility, both ethical and
production-related to design products and furniture sustainably.
1. How did you feel about winning the attention of the judges – what does it mean to you?
Winning the attention of the judges is a remarkable validation of the effort and dedication put into my work. It means that the bold design choices and the effort put into crafting something unique have been acknowledged by experts. This recognition validates my vision and creativity, confirming that taking risks and making unconventional choices can lead to exceptional results. It’s an encouragement to keep innovating and pursuing my passion for design, knowing that it resonates with and is appreciated by others in the field.
2. How important is colour in your work and why?
Colour is a vital element in my work, serving as a powerful tool for expression and communication. The choice of colour can evoke emotions, create ambiance, and convey messages that transcend words. Each colour carries its own cultural and symbolic weight, particularly in the context of Chinese culture, where colours like red, blue, and green have profound significance. Among these, red holds a special significance.
Red in Chinese culture is more than just a colour; it is a symbol of luck, joy, and prosperity. It is deeply ingrained in various aspects of life, from celebrations like the Chinese New Year and weddings to everyday items and architecture. Red envelopes, or "hongbao," are given during festive occasions to convey good wishes and blessings. The colour is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune, making it a preferred choice for many important events and decorations.
Blue in Chinese culture often symbolizes immortality, tranquillity, and depth. While less commonly used in traditional celebrations, it holds significant value in contexts such as porcelain and pottery, where blue and white porcelain is a hallmark of Chinese craftsmanship, symbolizing elegance and purity, and in art and decor, where blue evokes calm and serenity in landscapes and traditional paintings. In my work, blue can bring a sense of calmness and timeless beauty, reflecting the serenity and depth associated with this colour.
Green represents health, prosperity, and harmony in Chinese culture, symbolizing growth and renewal. It is connected to nature and life, representing fertility and harmony, while green jade, highly valued, symbolizes purity and moral integrity. Using green in my designs can evoke a connection to nature and a sense of renewal, fostering an atmosphere of peace and well-being.
Integrating these culturally significant colours allows my work to resonate on a deeper level with those who understand their meanings. It enables me to tell a story and connect emotionally with the audience. Whether through the vibrant, auspicious energy of red, the tranquil and timeless essence of blue, or the harmonious and renewing quality of green, each colour enriches my designs and imbues them with cultural significance.
By thoughtfully incorporating these colours, I can create pieces that not only please the eye but also carry profound cultural narratives, connecting the past with the present and bringing meaningful symbolism into contemporary design.
3. What is your main source of inspiration?
My main source of inspiration often comes from exploring and celebrating diverse cultures. For this project, I drew inspiration from the chairs of the Ming and early Qing dynasties. These historical pieces are renowned for their elegance, simplicity, and fine craftsmanship, which resonate deeply with my design philosophy. However, I regularly look to various cultures for inspiration, as I believe it is important to honour and celebrate the rich diversity and unique aesthetics each culture brings. This approach allows me to create designs that are not only beautiful and functional but also culturally enriched and meaningful.
4. What makes you happiest/most fulfilled in your creative process?
What makes me happiest and most fulfilled in my creative process is the moment when a concept transforms into a tangible, functional piece that resonates with people. The journey from an initial idea to a finished product involves exploration, experimentation, and overcoming challenges, which are all deeply satisfying. Seeing my designs evoke emotions, spark conversations, or bring joy and utility to someone's life is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the continuous learning and discovery inherent in the creative process, particularly when drawing inspiration from different cultures, enriches my work and fuels my passion for design.
5. Creative high point?
The creative high point for me is when I unveil a new piece that seamlessly blends aesthetic appeal with cultural significance and functionality. This peak moment often comes after an intense period of design and craftsmanship, where all the elements—materials, colours, and forms—come together harmoniously. It’s particularly fulfilling when I see the piece resonate with others, sparking admiration and connection. For instance, in this project inspired by Ming and early Qing dynasty chairs, reaching a high point means successfully integrating historical elegance with modern design, creating a piece that honours tradition while appealing to contemporary sensibilities.
6. Creative low point?
A creative low point for me is when I encounter challenges or setbacks that make it difficult to translate my vision into reality. This could be struggling with technical aspects of craftsmanship, facing limitations in materials, or feeling uninspired by initial designs. These moments can be disheartening and cause doubts about the direction of a project or my abilities as a designer. However, I've learned to see these low points as opportunities for growth and reflection, pushing me to experiment, learn new techniques, or seek fresh perspectives. Overcoming these challenges ultimately strengthens my creative process and leads to greater satisfaction when I do succeed.
7. Where do you want to be in 3 years’ time?
In three years’, time, I envision myself further establishing my presence and influence in the design world, particularly in the realm of furniture and interiors. I aim to have expanded my portfolio with a diverse range of innovative and culturally inspired designs that resonate globally. Professionally, I aspire to collaborate with renowned artists and designers, pushing the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship. Personally, I hope to continue learning and evolving, exploring new techniques and materials that enhance the sustainability and aesthetic appeal of my creations. Ultimately, I strive to be recognized not only for my designs but also for contributing positively to the industry and inspiring others to appreciate and embrace cultural diversity through design.
8. Please tell us about a special person during your studies/life who has really made a difference to you on your creative journey.
The three most significant people who have profoundly impacted my creative journey are my mum, dad, and partner. Each has contributed uniquely to my development as a creative individual.
My mum always encouraged me to think outside the box and to embrace my unique perspective in all creative endeavours. Whether it was drawing, crafting, or exploring different forms of artistic expression, she was there to cheer me on and celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Her patience and guidance taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges. Her keen eye for design and her ability to find beauty in everyday objects taught me to appreciate the artistry in the world around me.
My dad, on the other hand, with his background in computing and craftsmanship, instilled in me a strong appreciation for precision, functionality, and craftsmanship. He taught me practical skills and techniques, showing me the importance of attention to detail and the satisfaction that comes from creating something with your own hands.
My partner has been a constant pillar of support and inspiration throughout my creative journey. She believed in my potential, offering constructive feedback and encouragement that have pushed me to refine my skills and expand my artistic horizons. Her perspective and creativity have sparked new ideas that have enriched my work in unexpected ways.
Together, my mum, dad, and partner create a supportive network that fuels my passion for creativity. Their combined influence has shaped not only my artistic skills but also my resilience, determination, and belief in the transformative power of art and design. I am deeply grateful for their unwavering support, guidance, and love, which continue to inspire and motivate me on my creative path.
9. What is your favourite colour?
As a designer, I find inspiration in a variety of colours depending on the project and the emotions I want to evoke. However, if I were to choose a favourite, I would say that I am particularly drawn to red. It's vibrant, bold, and carries significant cultural symbolism in many societies. Red evokes feelings of passion, energy, and strength. It's a colour that can make a powerful statement in design, whether used prominently or as an accent. In my work, I appreciate how red can instantly draw attention and create a sense of warmth and excitement. It's a versatile colour that can be both traditional and modern, making it an exciting choice for expressing emotions and making a lasting impression in design.
Website: liamscott.uk
Email: liam.scott.design1@gmail.com
LinkedIn: Liam Scott
Instagram: @liam.scottdesign