Shangning Wang: A Creative Maestro and C2A Juror Unveiled
Before we delve into an exclusive interview with Shangning Wang, let’s explore some fascinating tidbits about this New York-based creative virtuoso:
– Multifaceted Maestro: Shangning Wang is not just a graphic designer; he’s an art director, illustrator, and an all-encompassing creative force.
– Design Maven: Wang specializes in a myriad of design realms, including branding, data visualization, commercial art, illustration, report design, website design, and poster design.
– The Poster For___ Pioneer: As the founder of the international non-profit design project, The Poster For___, Shangning Wang is a trailblazer in leveraging design for meaningful causes.
Now, let’s dive into an exclusive interview with Shangning Wang, where he shares insights into his role as a juror for the Creative Communication Awards (C2A) 2023 and offers a glimpse into the evolving landscape of creative communication.
The Exclusive Interview with Shangning Wang
1. As a juror for the Creative Communication Awards (C2A) 2023, what specific criteria did you find most essential in evaluating submissions, and how did these align with the overall goals of the awards?
Shangning Wang: I prioritized several key criteria in my evaluation process:
– Innovation and Uniqueness: Submissions that presented fresh, original, and distinctive approaches to communication and design left a more lasting impression.
– Aesthetic and Technical Excellence: I placed a significant emphasis on high-quality execution and meticulous attention to detail.
– Clarity and Effective Communication: Effectively conveying a message is fundamental to creative communication. Submissions that accomplished this successfully were closely aligned with the awards’ objectives, which include promoting impactful communication.
From my perspective, a prestigious award should consistently aim to honor creative work that pushes boundaries. In addition, it should celebrate the artistry and skill in design and communication. Consequently, submissions that showcased technical excellence were favorably evaluated.
2. Can you share a specific project or aspect of a submission that stood out to you and exemplified exceptional creativity in communication?
Shangning Wang: The ‘TOKYO GIANTS 2023 SEASON VISUAL,’ awarded as the Best of the Best in Sports Photography, stands out as one of the most outstanding submissions I had the privilege to review this year. While it’s worth noting that numerous submissions displayed exceptional qualities, this particular piece distinguishes itself by striking a remarkable balance between artistic expression and effective communication.
3. In your opinion, how did the entries this year reflect current trends and shifts in the communication landscape, and were there any surprising or noteworthy observations?
Shangning Wang: Since the early 2010s, we’ve witnessed a profound transformation in the design landscape due to technological advancements. This shift has had a significant impact on creative solutions. While new technologies, such as AI, are still in their infancy, we’ve already observed a surge in 3D design, animation, and the emergence of AI-supported projects. This trend is expected to continue evolving in the coming years.
4. Being part of the judging process involves a deep dive into diverse creative works. What challenges did you face in evaluating the submissions, and how did you overcome them to ensure a fair and comprehensive assessment?
Shangning Wang: Evaluating projects can be challenging, especially when dealing with a large pool of submissions like the 100 entries we have. It’s crucial to review each entry comprehensively. I find myself revisiting and reevaluating submissions to ensure a fair assessment. This iterative process allows for a more accurate and balanced evaluation, considering the diversity of creative work presented. It’s a testament to the quality and depth of the entries in this competition.
5. Communication is tied to storytelling. Can you share a memorable story or narrative from the submissions that left a lasting impression on you and embodied the essence of effective communication?
Shangning Wang: The winning entry, ‘Cinema Infographics 2022,’ in the Professional Journals category, truly excelled in the art of storytelling. I’ve always been passionate about infographics and illustrations that can vividly and comprehensively convey a narrative. This submission stood out by seamlessly blending information and visual elements to create a compelling and memorable story. It embodied the essence of effective communication by making complex data engaging and easy to understand.
6. Outside of your role as a C2A juror, could you tell us about a current project or work you’re involved in, and is there something specific you’d like to share with our audience?
Shangning Wang: Beyond my role as a C2A juror, my work at the United Nations involves a deep understanding of sustainable development. Over the years, I’ve been involved in numerous projects and reports for the organization, with annual reports often presenting the most significant challenges.
What I’d like to share with your audience is the unique perspective and experiences that designers within the UN system have. It’s a markedly distinct terrain compared to designers in the commercial world.
7. Were there emerging trends or approaches in communication that you encountered during the judging process that you believe will have a significant impact on the industry in the coming years?
Shangning Wang: Yes, during the judging process, I observed some emerging trends and approaches in communication that I believe will profoundly influence the industry in the coming years. These trends include a significant uptick in animations, and a surge in 3D design elements. These innovations are likely to shape the future of communication by offering new, dynamic ways to engage with audiences and convey messages. As technology continues to evolve, I expect these trends to gain even more prominence and transform the communication landscape.
8. As a seasoned professional, how do you see the role of awards like C2A in shaping and influencing industry standards and expectations in the field of creative communication?
Shangning Wang: An important function of awards like C2A is to set industry benchmarks and push the boundaries of creative communication. By recognizing outstanding work and highlighting innovative approaches, C2A awards inspire professionals to continually raise their own standards. Additionally, awards foster healthy competition, which can lead to a culture of excellence within the industry.
Moreover, winning a C2A not only acknowledges exceptional work but can also lead to career opportunities and increased visibility. It’s a testament to one’s creative abilities and can open doors in a highly competitive field.
Shaping the Future of Creative Communication: Shangning Wang’s Insights
In this exclusive interview, Shangning Wang provides a glimpse into the dynamic world of creative communication. As a juror for the C2A 2023, his discerning eye and expertise shed light on the evolving trends and the impactful role of awards in shaping industry standards. Shangning Wang, a true luminary in the design realm, continues to push boundaries and inspire the creative community.
Stay tuned for more insights and learn more from Shangning Wang as he continues to champion creativity and innovation in the design landscape.
