In this edition of Workflow, we have Sarah Tan, Visual & Augmented Reality Designer, talking about how the layout of her workspace affects her creative ebb and flow.
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Describe what you do: I am currently a freelance designer specialising in product design (UI/UX), graphic design and illustrations.
Other than designing, I love experimenting with immersive technologies and work on Augmented Reality (AR) projects, from simple things like creating face filters on Instagram to developing AR applications that can solve everyday problems.
Additionally, I host solo exhibitions merging visual arts and AR to push the boundaries of emerging technologies in the design industry.
On the side, I enjoy writing articles about what I do as well as running my business that aims to spread happiness through design, Happy Ever Alter.
How do you like your coffee: A regular flat white, though I’ve been making Dalgona coffee lately.
Device(s) you use: MacBook Pro 16” and iPad Pro with an Apple pencil.
Describe your working style in one sentence: While running my business, I prioritise work that has to be done first but I also like having a few things going on at once to keep me interested and gain different perspectives when I come back to it.
What does your workspace look like: My workspace includes my MacBook Pro, which I use as my daily driver, accompanied by an iPad for me to create my illustrations. I also enjoy positioning my artwork around my workspace to inspire me while I am working.
Other than that, I love having flowers on my desk, as it freshens up the environment and makes a difference. I try my best to keep my workspace clean and tidy while I am working because, for me, minimising my distractions maximises my productivity.
Before the pandemic, I enjoyed bringing my laptop to cafes and work whilst sipping a good cup of coffee.
How does your workspace affect your creative process: My creative ebb and flow is affected by the layout of my workspace. For example, the reason why I like placing different art mediums (eg: iPad, 360 camera, AR testing devices, physical art etc.) as part of my workspace because it encourages me to continue learning and inspires me to think out of the box while I’m working.
With work taking up a huge chunk of our waking hours, I believe that it is important to have a workspace which makes you feel comfortable because it can increase your productivity, the quality of your work and helps you feel happier in general.
Do you have a favourite playlist for work: I am currently obsessed with the Housework Hits playlist on Spotify featuring upbeat tracks and timeless hits. I like to switch my playlists from time to time depending on my mood.
Who would you like to nominate for the next workflow interview: Jeanette Cheah, CEO & Founder of The Hacker Exchange.
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This conversation is brought to you by fwards, an app to help health professionals thrive at work and home.
