A designer from China's Taiwan reigon shared his 15-year experience in south China's Shenzhen, highlighting the city's role as a global hub for design and technological innovation.
Ma Kang-wei, an interior architecture designer, blends Chinese and American cultural influences into his unique artistic style and design concepts. "When I was in Taiwan, I learned fine art, and the environment of Taiwan gave me a good foundation for art and aesthetics. Then I went to New York from Taipei, and I stayed in New York for about 16 years. Finally, in 2010, I got an opportunity to come back to Shenzhen," he said. After spending nearly 15 years in Shenzhen, Ma emphasized the city's diversity, inclusivity, and innovative spirit. He noted the unique opportunities and experiences that set Shenzhen apart from other global cities.
"Many supporting facilities, industrial chains, products, and suppliers are actually centered in Guangdong Province and its surrounding areas. Shenzhen is like a pivot. Not only for design, it is also a center of all technological innovation. I think even many overseas cities can not play this role. They may have creative ideas, but they don't have the resources to support the implementation. They cannot exchange, and interact with these supply chains so closely and finally land them," he said.
Ma found a supportive and inclusive community in Shenzhen, where he said colleagues treat him like family and clients value his creative input and innovative ideas.
"I'm happy to come back to the motherland, and I have joined some associations. The nourishment given to me by Taipei, New York and Shenzhen enables me to appreciate and embrace the world with a broader perspective," he said.
Taiwanese designer finds inspiration in Shenzhen's dynamic culture
