In the dynamic crossroads of industrial design and illustration, Mengyan Li emerges as a visionary. Her expertise in hand sketching and storytelling places her at the forefront of ‘Idea Visualization.’ Recognized not only for her design acumen but also by influential figures like Ellen Lupton, Mengyan’s journey is one that delves deep into the intricate connection between creativity, storytelling, and the evolution of industrial design. In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Mengyan to uncover her design journey.
Mengyan, could you please provide a brief introduction and highlight a noteworthy accomplishment in your career?
Certainly. I’m Mengyan Li, an industrial designer and illustrator currently working at North Atlantic Import and Blackstone Products. I take pride in my exceptional hand sketching and storytelling abilities, positioning me as a standout in ‘Idea Visualization’ within the field of industrial design. Notably, my proficiency in this area has been recognized by graphic designer, curator, writer, critic, and educator Ellen Lupton. She cited my storyboards and viewpoints in her book “Design is Storytelling,” highlighting the significance of storytelling in the industrial design process.
How do you perceive the role of traditional hand sketching in industrial design?
Traditional hand sketching remains a fundamental skill for industrial designers despite the growing influence of 3D modeling. It serves as a crucial tool in the brainstorming process, aiding in the generation of diverse concepts swiftly. Well-executed design sketches not only showcase fundamental skills but also effectively communicate concepts to teams and clients.
Photo Credit: Mengyan Li
With your background in illustration and emphasis on ‘Idea Visualization’ and storyboarding, how do these skills enhance communication in your work?
My proficiency in ‘Idea Visualization,’ evident in hand sketching and storyboarding, plays a vital role in bridging ‘problems’ and ‘opportunities’ in industrial design. Storyboards, in particular, make presentations engaging, captivating audiences, facilitating comprehension, and enhancing memorability.
Can you elaborate on the importance of storytelling in the industrial design process?
Storytelling proves to be a powerful tool, making presentations enjoyable, instilling patience and curiosity, aiding understanding, and keeping audiences engaged. The human connection with narrative elements enhances the communication of ideas, making them more memorable.
Photo Credit: Mengyan Li
Given your dual roles as an industrial designer and illustrator, does your style significantly differ between industrial product design and drawing comics?
Yes there is a notable contrast in styles. Industrial designs are characterized by a rational, cooler aesthetic, while comics lean towards an emotional style, featuring finer and softer details, excluding illustrations of architecture and machinery where a design-oriented mindset prevails.
As a designer, how do you maintain inspiration and motivation?
Passion is the foundation of my motivation. Loving design keeps my motivation abundant. The creative process involves constant accumulation and exposure to diverse stimuli, fostering the emergence of new inspirations. Encouraging ‘daydreams,’ regardless of their apparent impracticality, is essential, as a broad imagination contributes to preserving creativity and providing mental relaxation.
