Graphis Master: Hoon-Dong Chung’s Philosophy on Balanced Design

Hoon-Dong Chung spells out his design philosophy in Graphis Journal 358

Design is more than a career or a set of skills that one possesses. For the vast majority of our Graphis Masters, design is a way of life. Designers constantly pose questions about the world around them, leading to innovations and new philosophical understanding.

Hoon-Dong Chung, who grew up in a family of artists and was exposed to great work early on, has developed a strong sense of his own artistic approach. In his Graphis Q&A (in Journal issue 358) he explained, “When two opposites meet, they work together. My philosophy on work is ‘Contrast is Harmony’” (issue 358). As we can see from his poster work and typography, the blending of object and text create a whimsical yet structural feast for the eyes.

Hoon-Dong Chung’s balance of contrasting elements is apparent in 3D Type Exhibition (ABOVE, LEFT) and in Ideological Unity (ABOVE, RIGHT). Both pieces offer a sense of complexity juxtaposed with a calming, orderly nature. Additionally, each object (or letter) sends the eye in various directions and creates movement on the page.

In his interview, Chung told us, “I feel successful when I can set myself free. When people mentally relax and achieve their desired goal, they will relieve themselves from pressure and burden. This is my definition of success” (issue 358). Certainly, success is apparent in his effortlessly captivating designs. In many ways, the definition of success he holds for himself leads to work that extends a sense of relaxed harmony for the viewer as well.

Purchase your copy of Graphis Journal 358 for Hoon-Dong Chung’s full Q&A and featured designs. Click here to order today!

Submissions for Graphis’ Design Annual 2020 Competition run until March 13, 2019. Winners will have the opportunity to see their work published on our website, blog, newsletter, and social media platforms!