Interview

Nov 7

Shanshan Yuan

Shanshan Yuan, a multidisciplinary UX designer, merges technical precision with human-centered creativity to craft intuitive digital experiences. Her work, deeply rooted in thoughtful design, bridges the gap between advanced technology and everyday users. As an award-winning designer, Shanshan’s innovative solutions not only enhance usability but also push the boundaries of user experience across industries like professional construction, medical etc.

What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?

“I began my journey in design while helping my father at his traditional Chinese medicine store. There was a time where our business was struggling. I observed customers struggling to describe their symptoms and unsure of the benefits of herbal remedies. Inspired by this challenge, I created a simple system that categorized herbs and explained their uses clearly. This not only improved communication but also transformed the customer experience, sparking my passion for using design to solve practical problems and enhance understanding. From there, I pursued a degree in Interaction Design at Miami University and a Master’s in Entertainment Technology Design from Carnegie Mellon University. My passion for blending technology with intuitive design has shaped my career, and today, as the lead UX/UI designer at REEKON Tools, I’ve led the end-to-end design of multiple core products, shaping the user experience of innovative digital tools for professionals in the construction industry. My work has been recognized globally, earning prestigious awards such as the Red-dot Design Award, Muse Design Award etc, for both independent and company projects.”

What inspires you?

“I'm inspired by the challenge of making advanced technology intuitive and accessible to everyone. The idea that design can bridge the gap between complex tools and everyday users drives me to find creative solutions that simplify the experience. Whether it’s seeing how a simple design change can transform someone’s workflow or imagining new ways to blend cutting-edge technologies like AR/VR into daily life, I’m constantly motivated by the potential for design to make things easier, clearer, and more enjoyable.”

What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?

“The underlying message in my work is that technology should empower, not overwhelm. Take one of my projects, LifeLink as example, I designed a platform that uses AI and various technologies to help people, especially the older generation, manage their digital legacy. This project simplifies what can often feel like an overwhelming task - organizing and securing online assets - by making the process intuitive and user-friendly. I believe in making sure that users can engage with innovative tools without being intimidated by complexity. My designs often carry a message of inclusivity, ensuring that even the most cutting-edge technologies can be used by anyone, regardless of their technical expertise.”

How would you describe your work?

“I would describe my work as a blend of innovation and empathy. While integrating cutting-edge technology, the UIs I design are simple, intuitive, and minimal. My aesthetic focuses on clean lines and modern visuals, creating an experience that’s easy and enjoyable to use. For example, in MindEase, the use of soft gradients and spacious layouts helped to create a soothing environment, allowing users to fully immerse themselves in meditation without being distracted by complex technology. By blending thoughtful functionality with a clean, minimalist aesthetic, I ensure users can engage with advanced tools effortlessly.”

Which artists influence you most?

“I’m most influenced by Jony Ive, lead designer of Apple, who transformed complex technology into beautifully simple and intuitive products. His ability to take something as intricate as Apple’s hardware and make it feel approachable and effortless is a constant reminder of what great design can achieve. The seamless integration of form and function in his work is something I strive for in my own designs, especially when I'm working on products that need to simplify advanced tools for professional users.”

“The underlying message in my work is that technology should empower, not overwhelm.”

What is your creative process like?

“I start by defining a specific goal. Then I dream big, thinking of all the technologies and design techniques I could use. After researching and narrowing down the options, I simplify the design, always putting myself in the shoes of the most naive user. This ensures that even the most advanced technology remains accessible and easy to use.”

What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?

“As a designer, I believe my role is to shape how people engage with the rapidly evolving technological landscape, ensuring that new interaction mediums remain intuitive and user-friendly. We've already transitioned from physical buttons to touchscreens and digital interfaces, and I see the next shift moving toward more natural, less physical forms of interaction, such as XR (extended reality), gesture-based control, and conversational AI. These advancements will create highly immersive, personalized experiences, blurring the line between the digital and physical worlds. My role as a designer is critical in making sure these complex technologies are accessible to everyone.”