2021-11-24
Lauren Rodriguez
Design Dispatch, New York
Kaming Lee's latest book explores how the principles of balance, harmony, and visual flow found in graphic design can also be applied to the art of stir-frying. Through his own experiences as a chef and designer, Lee reveals how these elements can elevate both culinary creations and digital compositions.
The Harmony of Design and Cuisine
Kaming Lee's artistic journey is a testament to the convergence of creativity and culinary expertise. As a New York-based artist, designer, and educator, he has always been intrigued by the parallels between graphic design and stir-frying. For Lee, his practice can be distilled into a single, overarching metaphor: the stir fry.
The Stir Fry as a Design Model
Lee draws inspiration from the intricate dance of flavors and colors in a traditional Chinese stir-fry. Just as a skilled chef must expertly balance ingredients to create a harmonious dish, the designer must navigate an array of visual elements to craft a cohesive composition. The artist sees parallels between these two seemingly disparate pursuits: both require attention to texture, color palette, and spatial relationships.
A Recipe for Creative Success
Lee's approach to design is heavily influenced by the principles of stir-frying – swift, decisive action and constant adaptation. A chef must be prepared to adjust seasoning or ingredients mid-cook, just as a designer must pivot in response to changing project requirements. By embracing this mindset, Lee believes designers can produce innovative work that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant.