Interviews with Hassan Abdullah Taher

Design is a way for me to make ideas tangible. The ability to create something both beautiful and functional that resonates with people drives me daily.

I was drawn to design from a young age, tracing cartoon characters and excelling in art during school. Choosing to be a designer was a natural progression of my passions.

I specialize in graphic design and branding. I am eager to explore more interactive and experiential design projects, pushing the boundaries of traditional media. In addition to this I really enjoy photography, and how it allows me to experiment with equipments & softwares to achieve amazing results.

Stay curious, keep learning, and be bold in your design choices. Understand the why behind your designs, as this will guide you to create meaningful work.

It is easy to create a beautiful design, but crafting one that is both beautiful and functional—meeting the client's needs—is where the real challenge lies. That’s what separates good designers from great ones.

A good design effectively solves a problem while resonating emotionally with its audience. I evaluate design based on functionality, aesthetics, and user impact.

Good design is invaluable. It elevates brands, enriches user experiences, and can drive significant market success. Investing in good design is investing in the future of a business.

If time and resources were no object, I would love to design a cultural center that blends digital art with interactive installations, creating a space for community and innovation.

My dream project is to lead a design that becomes a part of public policy—designing an initiative that helps integrate design thinking into education systems globally.

My secret is a blend of empathy, continuous learning, and an unyielding passion for solving problems creatively. Understanding the user's heart and mind is key.

I am inspired by the works of Karim Rashid for his design philosophy and by the pop artist Robert Indiana for his typographic innovations.

The Eames Chair for its timeless form and Apple’s product design for its seamless integration of technology and aesthetics.

The branding for 'Habibi on the Roll' represents my most significant design work, where I skillfully blended modern design principles with vibrant cultural elements. This project not only embodies a visually compelling identity but also resonates deeply within its community. I am particularly proud of this achievement and plan to nominate it for an award next year, aiming for further recognition of its innovative approach.

Always seek feedback, stay updated with the latest design trends, and never shy away from challenging projects. Practical experience is invaluable.

If not design, I would have pursued architecture, applying my creative and technical skills to shape the environments we live and work in.

Design is the art and science of creating solutions that improve human interactions with the world around them. It’s about making life both easier and more aesthetically pleasing.

My colleagues and clients from my early days in the industry played a pivotal role in my development, offering practical challenges and collaborative opportunities that fueled my creative explorations. Beyond professional circles, my wife and family are my greatest supporters, providing the encouragement and inspiration essential to my success.

A relentless pursuit of excellence, continuous learning, and a commitment to understanding user needs have been pivotal in my journey.

Early in my career, reconciling client expectations with creative integrity was challenging. Learning to communicate the value of design effectively was a significant hurdle.

Designers should present their work clearly and professionally, emphasizing how their designs solve specific problems and improve user experiences.

I am currently focusing on my personal branding project, which is an exciting opportunity to refine and redefine how I present my professional persona and design philosophy to the world.

My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact on the design community, pushing the envelope in sustainable and user-focused design.

People expect innovative, impactful designs that set trends and push boundaries, always staying ahead of the curve.

Design plays a crucial role in making everyday interactions more efficient and enjoyable. It has the power to solve complex societal issues, making it essential for a better future.

Currently, I am directing the Roadmap Video for Kout Food Group, an engaging project that blends creative visual storytelling with strategic communication objectives.

Designing the signage for The Avenues - Phase 3 and the Soku Grand Mosque Qibla Kuffi Calligraphy was not only rewarding but also challenging, given their high-traffic locations. Seeing my contributions come to life and significantly enhance the user experience in such bustling settings was incredibly fulfilling.

I would like to see a greater focus on sustainability and ethical practices within the design industry, ensuring our work contributes positively to society.

The design field is rapidly evolving towards more immersive and interactive experiences, integrating technologies like AR and VR.

The time to finalize a design project varies based on its scope but typically ranges from a few weeks to several months.

Each new project begins with thorough research to understand the client’s industry, followed by brainstorming sessions to conceptualize innovative solutions.

My design philosophy is 'Design with purpose.' Every element must serve a clear purpose and contribute to the overall goals of the project.

While trends can influence design, truly innovative design can set new trends and define the direction of future projects.

Technology is a tool that, when used wisely, can enhance creativity and efficiency, allowing designers to explore new possibilities.

I rely heavily on Adobe Creative Suite for graphic design tasks and use various digital tools and manual sketching techniques to bring my ideas to life.

Color, materials, and ambiance are essential in design as they shape a user's sensory experience and emotional response, impacting how a design is perceived and interacts with its environment. Color influences emotions and communicates messages, materials determine the functionality and sustainability, and ambiance creates the overall mood of a space. Together, these elements contribute to making a design both visually appealing and emotionally resonant, ensuring it effectively engages its intended audience.

I wish people would ask more about the process behind the design, not just the outcomes. Understanding the journey of creation is as vital as appreciating the final product.

When I encounter a great new design, I am inspired to dissect what makes it effective and how it pushes the boundaries of what is possible in design.

My ideal design partner is someone who is not only creative and technically skilled but also shares a vision for pushing creative limits and exploring new design frontiers.

Working with experienced designers early in my career shaped my design philosophy and approach, embedding a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and innovation.

Logo Lounge, while not a traditional book, acts as an essential resource and major source of inspiration, providing a vast collection of creative logos that spark my design creativity. Additionally, 'Steal Like an Artist' by Austin Kleon is another favorite of mine, offering insights into harnessing the creative process. 'The Elements of Typographic Style' by Robert Bringhurst also significantly influences my work, guiding my approach to typography with its detailed exploration of type design principles.

My skills have developed through constant practice, ongoing education, and a willingness to experiment and take creative risks.

If time were no constraint, I would love to meet Leonardo da Vinci to discuss his approach to combining art and science.

While recognition and awards are gratifying, they bring a sense of responsibility to maintain high standards and continue innovating.

My favorite color is blue, my favorite place is the Lauterbrunnen in Switzerland, my favorite food is Pasta, my favorite season is spring, and my favorite brand is Apple for its innovation.

As a photographer, I used to ask clients detailed questions to plan shoots perfectly, but more often than not, the details were as clear as night! So, I've become a bit of a psychic—planning shoots with little to no info. Surprisingly, this "shoot in the dark" approach has led to some of my best work. It turns out, a little unpredictability can sometimes spice up a photo session!

A great day in design is when a project comes together just as envisioned, or when spontaneous creativity leads to an unexpectedly successful outcome.

As a child, I was always sketching and creating, often rearranging my room and stuff for better aesthetics and functionality, showing early signs of my future in design.

I envision a future where design and technology seamlessly integrate to create environments that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also transcend the ordinary, offering experiences that feel almost out of this world in their innovation and functionality.

To all who follow my work: Thank you for your support. Your interest fuels my creativity and motivates me to keep pushing the boundaries of what design can achieve. I am excited for what the future holds and look forward to sharing more of my journey with you.

As the Associate Creative Director at Kout Food Group in Kuwait, I bring over a decade of experience in graphic design and social media management. My role encompasses enhancing communication and marketing strategies across the mother brand and multiple restaurant franchises within our portfolio. This position allows me to apply my expertise across various sectors, integrating innovative strategies to strengthen our brand presence and engage our diverse audience effectively.

To me, design is the science and art of solving problems and creating functional beauty. It transcends traditional art by applying aesthetics to solutions that meet specific user needs.

I am particularly passionate about branding and visual identity projects because they allow me to delve deep into a brand’s ethos and craft a comprehensive aesthetic that resonates with their story and audience.

One of my favorite projects is the comprehensive signage solution for the Galleria Food Court at The Avenues - Phase 3. This project skillfully combined functionality with aesthetic appeal, significantly enhancing navigation and visual engagement. Being my first major project, it holds a special place in my heart and marks a significant milestone in my career.

In October 2011, I joined the team and was tasked immediately with creating a new Arabic typeface for the upcoming year calendar and greeting cards. This design was distinctly abstract and contemporary, positioning it ahead of its time and setting a new standard in design innovation across the company.

I prefer digital platforms for their unmatched versatility, particularly the Adobe Creative Suite for graphic design tasks. Additionally, the advent of generative AI technologies has caught my interest for its groundbreaking potential and is definitely worth exploring further in our projects.

My creativity is at its highest during team brainstorming sessions, where we come up with innovative ideas and unique solutions. I’ve noticed this often happens under tight deadlines. I’ve worked on improving how I handle deadlines and have made great progress, leading to a more efficient workflow.

My focus is primarily on user experience and functionality, ensuring that every design not only looks good but serves its intended purpose effectively.

Designing stirs a mix of excitement and challenge in me. It's about pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities, which is thrilling. Can be stressful but always fun!

Seeing my designs come to life brings immense satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment, particularly when they benefit the client's business or when I see the look on the face of the end-user. To celebrate the completion of a major project, I've made it a personal tradition to take the following day off. It's my way of treating myself to a brief respite after the intense effort involved and stress involved in the process.

A successful design effectively communicates the intended message, meets the users' needs, and enhances the overall brand experience.

I first consider functionality and user engagement when judging a design. Aesthetics are important, but they must serve the design’s purpose.

Designers have a duty to society and the environment to create sustainable and ethical solutions that contribute positively to our world.

The design field is rapidly integrating with technology, moving towards more interactive and user-centered experiences. The future will likely see more virtual and augmented reality in everyday design.

My most recent exhibition was in 2023 in Italy, where I participated in the A'Design & Competition Winners Exhibition. This prestigious event showcased my award-winning work, earning me both the Bronze and Iron awards, and celebrated my contributions to design innovation and excellence. While I currently have no exhibitions scheduled, I am actively working on a new project. I hope to share this exciting development with the public very soon.

Inspiration comes from everyday life, cultural heritage, and continuously learning about new trends and technologies. Travel and reading also feed my creativity.

My design style is characterized by its simplicity, modernity, and a sense of organized structure—which might seem atypical in the context of design and art. This 'organized chaos' reflects a deliberate approach where every element has a purpose and contributes to the overall harmony of the design. While I often draw inspiration from Arabic design elements, I integrate these only when they enhance the project's aesthetic and functional goals. I don’t force these elements; instead, I incorporate them naturally when they align with the design narrative. This method ensures that my work not only respects but also revitalizes traditional motifs within a modern framework."

I currently reside in Kuwait, where the rich cultural heritage deeply shapes my design approach. Growing up in this vibrant environment has enabled me to blend traditional Arabic artistic elements with contemporary global trends, creating a unique stylistic fusion that enriches my work. My upbringing in a culturally mixed setting has added significant diversity to my personal and professional life, fostering a deep appreciation for my heritage. This appreciation continually inspires me to innovatively integrate cultural motifs into modern designs, making them relevant and appealing internationally. The key advantage of this approach is the ability to produce distinctive designs that stand out in a competitive market. However, the challenge remains in balancing authenticity with modernity to ensure that my designs are accessible and resonate with a diverse audience.

I work closely with companies to thoroughly understand their vision and needs, ensuring that my design solutions align seamlessly with their business goals. By immersing myself in learning about the company's culture, challenges, and objectives, I can anticipate their needs more effectively. This deep understanding not only speeds up the design process but also ensures that the solutions I provide are both impactful and timely. My approach is proactive and focused on achieving results that not only meet but often exceed client expectations.

Choose a designer not just for their style but for their ability to solve problems and communicate effectively. A good designer understands business just as well as art.

My design process is comprehensive and iterative, beginning with extensive research to deeply understand the project's context and the needs of the target audience. This is followed by concept development, where ideas are generated and refined, and then prototyping, which brings these concepts to life for initial feedback. User testing is a critical phase that ensures the solution resonates well with its intended users.

Additionally, I place a high value on my relationships with clients. I believe in being thorough and transparent, often educating them about the design process in a way that's easy to understand. This approach not only helps in solving their problems effectively but also in enhancing their appreciation of the design’s value. By guiding clients through this process, I help shift their perspective and enrich their understanding of what good design can achieve. This collaborative journey is key to creating solutions that are not only visually appealing but also strategically sound.

My home features a collection of wall art, each piece telling a unique story, setting the tone for each room. I treasure my figurines and little souvenirs, scattered around my desk, which evoke cherished memories from my childhood. Several decor items throughout my space are handcrafted from recycled materials like glass bottles and frames, reflecting my commitment to sustainability in design. Among these, my absolute favorite item is Humbaba, a puppet I created during university. It holds a special place in my home and heart, symbolizing my journey in art and design.

A typical day involves project meetings, design conceptualization, client consultations, and perhaps some hands-on design work or photography, balancing creativity with managerial responsibilities.

For young designers venturing into the expansive universe of art and design, my advice is to stay deeply curious and continuously explore. Find your niche, discover what resonates with you, and then break rules and push the boundaries of conventional design. In this era, the most important thing is to provide the audience with an experience, share part of your professional life (work-wise) with them, sometimes maybe your personal life, whatever works best for you.

The positive is getting to create every day and seeing your ideas impact the real world. The challenge is continually adapting to new technologies and trends.

Always design with the end-user in mind. User-centric designs are not only more successful but more fulfilling to create.

Creativity, empathy, technical skills, and business acumen are crucial. Designers must understand their audience as well as the technologies they use.

I use a variety of tools from digital software like Photoshop and Illustrator to traditional sketching materials and modern devices like iPads and digital cameras.

Effective time management is key. I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and complexity, using project management tools to keep track of all my responsibilities.

Design projects can vary, from a few weeks for a logo to several months or even years for other projects, depending on the scope and client needs.

The most common question I get is about balancing creativity with commercial goals. It’s about finding that sweet spot where design meets business.

Throughout my career, each role has presented its unique set of challenges and contributed significantly to my development. However, my time at Memac Ogilvy stands out as especially transformative. It was a pivotal period that broadened my expertise in digital marketing and sharpened my strategic thinking. This role didn't just enhance my skills; it opened my eyes to new dimensions in marketing and profoundly influenced my approach to design and client strategies. It was during this time that I truly grasped the depth and impact of integrating digital solutions with traditional marketing.

I've had the privilege of collaborating with several high-profile clients, including the Touristic Enterprises Company, owners of Kuwait Towers, the Ministry of Tourism in Georgia, the Iraq Fund, and the iconic Hamra Tower. Additionally, I work closely with Kout Food Group, managing branding across their diverse portfolio. My experience spans multiple sectors such as government, retail, food & beverage, medical, and consultants, each offering unique challenges and opportunities that enrich my professional journey.

I find the most enjoyment in working on brands that have a rich backstory. These narratives provide a solid foundation from which I can draw inspiration and build a compelling visual story. This process allows me to deeply engage with the brand's essence and craft designs that encapsulate and amplify their core message.

My immediate focus is on enhancing my interactive design skills and leading my team toward innovative solutions that have a tangible impact. At work, I am spearheading the creation of a new in-house design studio dedicated to our restaurant brands. This initiative not only involves reimagining these brands from a marketing perspective but also aligning them closely with contemporary design trends as part of our studio’s integration. These efforts are geared towards elevating our brand presence and ensuring a cohesive and dynamic market strategy.

While I value the autonomy of working on designs individually, I firmly believe that teamwork is indispensable for achieving comprehensive and innovative outcomes. Over time, I've learned that 'one hand can't clap on its own'—collaborative efforts often yield richer, more effective results. Whenever possible, I actively engage in every stage of the design process, consistently contributing my insights and ideas to ensure that the final product benefits from a blend of perspectives.

I am currently developing a new personal branding project, working on my portfolio and rethinking the marketing for several local restaurant brands, aiming to bring fresh perspectives to established names.

People can reach me via email at hsn.taher@outlook.com or by phone at +965 97875247. I'm also active on all major social media platforms under the usernames "hsn.taher" or "clickedbyhsn", where I regularly engage with followers and share updates about my work.

In addition to my professional endeavors, I have a profound passion for hands-on projects that allow me to blend various media and bring my designs to life in dynamic ways. From seeing my artwork transform from digital designs to physical installations like billboards and event setups, I revel in the process of creation from start to finish.

One of my personal projects that I hold dear is the design of my own wedding card, to which I added a ribbon myself to give it a personal touch. I’ve also ventured into jewelry design, crafting necklaces, bracelets, and earrings with innovative designs that incorporate modern interpretations of Arabic calligraphy in an abstract style.

Designing personalized gifts is another passion of mine, as these projects allow me to infuse emotion and individuality into each piece. This aspect of my work not only fulfills a creative desire but also strengthens the personal connection between my art and its recipients.

Art and design have always captivated me, not just as professions but as profound means of expression that are endlessly versatile and deeply impactful. Their unpredictability and expressiveness never cease to amaze me, driving my continuous exploration and passion in this vast field.

The design of the Kayan 2022 Calendar, marked by its geometric forms and resemblance to broken cubes, draws inspiration from the distinctive geometry of the Kayan logo. This direction allowed me to explore a variety of organic and geometric compositions, leading to the creation of a series of forms that artfully blend diamond shapes and cubes. This combination introduces a captivating illusion effect, where the interplay between these shapes creates a visual depth that seems to shift depending on the viewer's perspective. This dynamic interaction not only showcases Kayan's dedication to modern and innovative architectural solutions but also adheres to and expands upon their established design philosophy, illustrating a commitment to both form and function in architectural design.

Challenging traditional calendar designs was key to promoting Kayan's brand image & design aesthetics as modern and innovative. Opting for a compact, pocket-sized design that doubles as a wall poster, the calendar was crafted to be not only practical but also a piece of decor. The decision to forego traditional day headers in favor of a streamlined date arrangement was aimed at enhancing the simplicity and modernity of the design, making it intuitive and user-friendly while still stylish.

One challenge was selecting a paper durable enough to maintain its form when folded yet premium enough to reflect Kayan’s sophisticated identity. After careful consideration, I selected 120 gsm wood-free paper, which offered a perfect balance of quality, environmental friendliness, and durability, with an uncoated finish to enhance its tactile appeal.

Receiving an A' Design Award for the Kayan 2022 Calendar was an honor that significantly impacted my approach to design. It strengthened my focus on detail, concept development, and presentation quality. This recognition has not only boosted my credibility but also deepened my clients' trust in my ability to deliver innovative, impactful designs.

Incorporating white space into the calendar design was a practical decision to cater to Kayan's team, providing ample room for notes and marking important dates. This minimal yet functional approach ensured the calendar balanced usability with a unique, standout aesthetic.

The subtle use of color coding enhances the functionality of the calendar while aligning with Kayan’s elegant brand identity. Weekends are marked in a calming blue, contrasting with the bright red used for holidays, facilitating quick visual differentiation by users and maintaining a cohesive look that complements Kayan's sophisticated style.

Kuwait’s limited material resources influenced many execution decisions. However, the simplicity of the design allowed me to achieve Kayan’s vision with locally available materials, leveraging my professional network to ensure the final product was both practical and modern while meeting the client’s expectations.

The architectural collage on the reverse side of the calendar was a way to honor Kayan's architectural identity. Featuring details inspired by works of Arch. Bashar Al Salem and photographer Jack Wozniak, the design transforms the calendar into a timeless piece of art, extending its life and purpose beyond the calendar year.

The design process of the Kayan 2022 Calendar was a delightful blend of creativity and functionality, emphasizing the intersection of corporate and artistic design. This project demonstrated the potential of graphic design to enhance business communications, making everyday tools like calendars both functional and visually engaging, and deepening client engagement through thoughtful design.

The intricate patterns formed by the suspended liquid in these photos emerge from my fascination with capturing fleeting moments that reveal the unseen dynamics of time and motion. Inspired by the pioneering high-speed liquid photography of Karl Taylor and Ali Arbes, I was driven to push traditional photography boundaries, exploring how motion, often invisible to the naked eye, can be artistically captured and appreciated.

The distinctive use of transparent string in "Frozen Splash Artistic Photos" originated from innovative experiments with everyday objects. This setup allowed controlled yet unpredictable results, refining a technique that enhances the dynamic interaction between liquid and air, and capturing each splash as a unique piece of art.

The "Art by Accident" concept in the Frozen Splash series is a celebration of the unexpected. This artistic approach stems from the belief that some of the most striking artworks are born from unplanned results. By embracing unpredictability, I ventured into various dynamic splash techniques, leading to unique and captivating images that traditional methods might not achieve.

One unexpected challenge was ensuring perfect synchronization between pulling the string and triggering the camera's shutter. This intricate dance of timing often felt like orchestrating a splash symphony in my living room, which, despite the chaos (and a fair amount of spilled tea), enriched my understanding of motion capture. This has ingrained a deep appreciation for flexibility and creative adaptability in my photographic work.

My graphic design background profoundly influences my approach to photography. In "Frozen Splash Artistic Photos," I applied design principles to enhance visual storytelling, using composition techniques to focus viewer attention and sophisticated post-processing to refine each photo's aesthetic, transforming simple tea cups into visually striking elements.

For photographers interested in liquid photography, patience and persistence are key. The complexity of capturing liquid motion requires experimenting with various techniques, understanding the interactions of liquids with other substances, and mastering the right lighting setup. The right moment can transform a simple splash into a breathtaking piece of art.

A significant learning moment in this project came from gaining a deeper understanding of our lighting equipment and the nuances of how different setups impacted our images. Experimenting with various speeds, the reloading time it required for taking multiple images, and how the camera reacted to these changes were crucial. Additionally, adjusting the pulling speeds and angles of the strings provided pivotal insights into capturing the perfect splash. These experiments not only enhanced my ability to capture motion but also opened up endless possibilities for creative expression in high-speed photography.

The success of this project has spurred me to further explore and challenge myself in real-time photoshoots for clients, aiming to capture spontaneous and artful moments. This journey into dynamic photography encourages continuous innovation, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with a camera and a visionary outlook.

For photographers venturing into experimental photography, my advice is to embrace both the technical and the unpredictable. Stay open to experimentation—sometimes a simple change, like changing a cup’s shape used in a shoot, can lead to a dramatically different and visually intriguing outcome. Always be ready to capture the unplanned, as these moments often yield the most artistically fulfilling results.