Mehragin Rahmati

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Mehragin Rahmati ("MR") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

MR : Since childhood, painting has been my true passion. My happiness and sorrow found expression through my art, no matter the time or place. I even painted gifts for my friends. My mother was my greatest supporter—as a child, I covered every surface in the house with my paintings, yet she never discouraged me. Instead, she saw the talent in me. This passion led me to explore painting through various mediums, from colored pencils to oil paints. Later, I pursued graphic design in university, then continued my education in clinical psychology, and later studied jewelry design. While I’ve enjoyed every artistic field, painting and drawing have always remained my deepest love. When I draw, I lose all sense of time. And through it all, my family has been my unwavering support.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

MR : I became a designer because art, painting, drawing, and design have always been inseparable from my life. My family supported me on this path, and everyone respected my choice. I’ve carried a deep love for what I do, and my family encouraged me to stay true to who I am.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

MR : Art has been my true calling since childhood. My family always stood by me in pursuing my passions, and no one ever pressured me to become a designer. Looking back, I realize nothing else could have fulfilled me like painting, drawing, and design. This goes beyond profession—art is woven into my very being. I find art in everything: in what I see, what I read, even in moments spent in nature where new designs take shape in my mind. This has been my constant companion throughout life.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

MR : I design based on social and psychological concepts. I value aesthetics while prioritizing meaningful ideas. The timelessness of my work has always been my true commitment. In the future, I plan to stay innovative and avoid repetition. My priority is to convey new messages and experiment with materials to create novel pieces.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

MR : Young designers should learn the basics of design first. I believe in classic education in the design process to gain proper knowledge of color palettes, composition, and other fundamental rules. After understanding these foundations, they can begin to choose their own style. Some designers try to innovate without paying attention to basic design principles. This will set them back in the future. Young designers must fight the fear of failure and keep updating their skills with modern technology. They also need to study artwork by established artists carefully to learn from them. However, avoiding imitation is equally crucial - this is the only path to developing an original style. They should believe in themselves and cultivate their own creative voice rather than copying others' work. True design comes from understanding the rules, then making them your own.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

MR : A good designer is someone who spends much time and works hard, but a great designer is one who has endured much and walked a long path. A great designer studies deeply what they wish to create and never turns away from the fear of failure. For creating great design, there are no shortcuts. The road is hard and long - but worthy and glorious.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

MR : When I see good design, I first appreciate the idea behind it. Aesthetics matter deeply to me. Some designers chase complexity, but true artistry blossoms when beauty is honored. Innovation alone isn't enough - what's new must also be beautiful. Great design comes from originality that rejects imitation, creating work that's both innovative and visually sublime.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

MR : The true value of a design cannot be measured materially. Each creation carries part of the designer's soul - their heart and feelings poured into form. Behind every unique design lies a world of experience; designers endure much to bring their visions to life. When you encounter an extraordinary, distinct design, know this: its creator has struggled for years through learning, failures, and hard-won experience to reach this point. A remarkable design is never just an object - it is the culmination of a devoted artist's lifelong journey. When we invest in a unique design, its true worth transcends material calculation - it carries spiritual significance. Such designs never fade with passing trends; unlike ordinary objects, they grow more precious with time, as we witness in the enduring works of master artists. Time doesn't diminish these creations - it consecrates them.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

MR : My greatest desire is to blend the art of painting with jewelry design. As I’ve shared, painting is my deepest passion—and through my work, I strive to build a bridge between these two beautiful disciplines.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

MR : Perhaps the secret to my success lies in my background in the principles of painting. As someone who has painted for years, I’ve developed an intimate understanding of color palettes, forms, and composition—harmony lives deep in my heart. Jewelry design wasn’t my first path; I studied graphic design and have painted my entire life. But I’ve always stayed curious, relentlessly learning everything related to my craft. When I design, I prioritize artistry over business—the creative vision always comes first. My love for literature also fuels my creativity; I’m a true bookworm, and stories inspire fresh ideas. Another layer comes from psychology—my academic training in the subject helps me weave deeper meaning into my work, connecting art to the human experience.

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

MR : I’m drawn to designs that are truly unique—where artistry breathes life into every piece. The best designers, to me, aren’t those who chase trends or overcomplicate to impress. Instead, they honor aesthetics and the quiet soul hidden within their work. They create with purity, rejecting imitation, because their vision carries its own signature. For them, it’s never just about marketing; it’s about art.

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

MR : My Spring Dance, which won the Platinum Award, is one of my proudest creations. I have many other designs that I am fond of, but I faced a lot of challenges in making this necklace. I wanted it to be beautiful, distinctive, and practical at the same time. I had to pay attention to various aspects of design. The concept of designing Spring Dance was based on a psychological idea and a story that was narrated by myself. In the process of crafting this necklace, although I faced many challenges, I learned a lot, too. I got tired on my path, but I didn’t give up until I got to the final result. I learned how perseverance could pay off. Spring Dance is not merely a beautiful jewelry design. To me, it holds countless sweet and bitter memories, with valuable lessons I learned. Spring Dance is versatile jewelry. I wanted more than a glamorous piece for rare occasions; I wanted to create something both unique and wearable, something practical for every occasion. That’s why I designed it to transform into six distinct styles, breaking the boundaries of traditional jewelry. My new collection, Once Upon a Time, is a highly distinctive line crafted from unconventional materials that pushed my skills to new limits. Inspired by old tales, I created a delicate yet glorious set of jewelry, each piece conveying deep and meaningful messages.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

MR : If people want to improve to be better designers, they should remain updated and curious. They should keep learning in their own field. Studying the work of successful artists who have been working in the field of design for years would help them learn a lot. Instead of imitating such artworks, they should look at them as a lesson to upgrade. To reach success, an artist should stay fearless and not be afraid of obstacles. Success comes from countless failures. Failures hide valuable lessons that help us recognize our weaknesses and flaws. Knowing such defects helps an artist move forward. Keeping away from frustration is the key to reaching our ultimate goal.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

MR : If I hadn’t become a designer, I would probably be a professional painter. If not that, I would’ve been a psychologist

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

MR : Design matters because designers make the world a more beautiful and convenient place to live in. A jewelry designer doesn’t merely craft precious metals and gemstones; they create symbols of confidence and elegance, infusing each piece with meaning. An industrial designer solves problems, turning friction into ease. Architects and interior designers transform empty spaces into places pulsing with life and purpose. At its core, design is a gift—a fusion of artistry and empathy. With every creation, a designer pours a fragment of their soul into their work, offering it to the world not just as a product, but as a gesture of care. It’s the quiet magic of making life not just functional, but beautiful.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

MR : Art has always cherished by my family, and their support has shaped my creative journey. From my earliest days clutching a paintbrush to my first steps in jewelry design, my parents stood firmly behind me—seeking out the finest teachers, believing in my potential even before I could see it myself. And when I began this path, my sister became my brightest champion, whispering words that still echo in my work: 'You will be among the greatest.' Her faith, like my parents', taught me to trust my vision even when doubt crept in. This is more than encouragement—it's the foundation that lets me create fearlessly.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

MR : My success as a designer is based on four factors: passion for design, which keeps me moving forward through challenges; perseverance, which turns failures into growth; constant support from my family; and a permanent eagerness for learning new skills.

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

MR : My parents gave me the gift of an exceptional education in painting, nurturing my artistic roots with care. But my path in jewelry design was one I had to walk alone—no family legacy to guide me, no inherited workshop to step into. While many in this field grow up surrounded by generations of knowledge, I faced the silence of uncharted territory. Every technique, every secret of the craft, I uncovered through trial and error. Yet that solitude became my strength. With each stumble, I rose more determined; with every uncertainty, I learned to trust my vision. The road was longer this way, but the rewards are sweeter—because every skill I possess, every piece I create, bears the mark of my own unwavering spirit. What I’ve achieved wasn’t handed to me; it was forged through the quiet, steady steps of a dreamer who refused to turn back.

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

MR : Presentation is the final step of creation—when your design meets the world. Whether at exhibitions or on social media, how you showcase your work decides if it stands out or gets overlooked. I’ve seen amazing designs fade into the background simply because their presentation didn’t succeed. That’s why a designer must control this process. No one else understands your vision like you do. The right place and right timing to present, a good angle, lighting, color, and composition —these small details turn your work into a masterpiece

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

MR : I want to create a series of designs inspired by Persian heritage – but with my own fresh style. Many designers use our culture’s history and monuments, but I want to show it in a new way that’s truly mine. I also plan to make another series based on psychological ideas. Both will have my unique artistic vision – connecting culture and emotions through jewelry design.

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

MR : As a jewelry designer, I might be seen as someone who creates luxurious items. But I have a purpose in what I do. Through designing jewelry, I want to take an effective step to deliver meaningful ideas to others and expose important issues to people who don’t pay enough attention to them. Having a message behind my jewelry is my priority. I use the mesmerizing appearance of my pieces to capture public attention, and then it becomes easier to convey my hidden meaning. That is a tool in the hands of a designer—using aesthetics to communicate with society and make them hear her voice.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

MR : They certainly expect me to create original and unique designs. My work needs to be distinctive, delivering a meaningful concept. When I present a new design, it has to hold some innovation, showing progress and growth. This improvement could be observed in the idea, technique, or aesthetics.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

MR : Nothing is as pure and strong as art for communicating with people. The source of art is from the artist’s soul, and that is the secret key that helps the artist to deliver their message. Art can express the issues of society. Writers with their words, painters with their paints, and designers with their creations—they all can deliver issues that exist in society, but no one pays attention to them. That is the duty of every artist to express such thoughts and help others find a solution. For instance, to deliver my messages I work on designs and collections to raise awareness about environmental pollution, wildlife protection, social issues, historical aspects about my heritage, psychological ideas, and so on.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

MR : The Circle of Love collection is one of my favorite works. A combination of simplicity and precise details, it easily conveys the romantic message I wanted to deliver. Spring Dance, being a challenging design, is one of my proudest creations, with its mesmerizing form and accurate mechanics. And Mayura, with its rare blue pearl matched with a unique structure, delivers the message of feminine self-confidence and strength.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

MR : AI will likely dominate jewelry design in the future—we already see it creating many designs today. While it can be a helpful tool, it worries me when designers rely completely on AI. That creates work without a human soul or true meaning. AI should assist, not replace. I hope that classic design principles never get forgotten. Technology would never be a replacement for conventional artistic methods of design; it can only be an assisting tool to facilitate the process.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

MR : Each design has its own timeline. For complex pieces like Spring Dance, solving the challenges of versatility and structure takes 3-4 months. Simpler designs come together faster. The process always adapts to what the creation demands.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

MR : Inspiration strikes anywhere - a beautiful stone, a powerful story, a psychological concept, an ancient monument, a painting’s colors, or a moment in nature. These all can spark a jewelry design. The instant the idea comes, I see the complete piece in my mind: the setting, shapes, and gemstones perfectly assembled. From that first flash of inspiration, every detail is already alive in my imagination.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

MR : My design philosophy is simple: Trust your own mind. True creativity means never imitating others. Our world overflows with untouched inspiration - why copy when you can create? A real designer is an endless well of originality. That’s where true art lives - in courage, not copies.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

MR : Technology can assist designers, but it’s no substitute for an artist’s hand—especially in jewelry design. If a designer can’t create the core lines of their work by hand, technology won’t bridge that gap. Sometimes I use tools like Procreate just to accelerate my working process, but my designs are always done with hand drawing. The same applies to crafting: while technology offers precision, you can always feel the difference between machine-made and handcrafted pieces.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

MR : Color speaks to me. A single gemstone’s glow, the way light moves through an ancient monument, nature’s endless palette - these are where my designs begin. To create true art, a designer must understand color’s language - how hues converse, how they dance together. This harmony lives in everything I design.

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

MR : When people first see my jewelry, they're naturally drawn to its beauty and precious materials. But as an artist who designs with intention, I want more - I want their curiosity to grow. To wonder about the stories woven into each piece. To notice the precise details, inside and out, because I craft every angle with equal care. Most of all, I want wearers to feel the message alive in my work long after they put it on. My jewelry isn't just meant to adorn - it's meant to speak.

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

MR : When I see an extraordinary design, I see more than beauty—I see the journey. I feel deep respect for the creator’s dedication, because I know what it truly takes: years of wisdom, relentless effort, and pure passion. That moment of recognizing true mastery fills me with joy.

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

MR : My designs are shaped by many ideas and thoughts: psychological studies, art theory texts, biographies of master painters - even great novels or old tales leave their mark. Each page I read becomes potential inspiration, transforming theory and human stories into tangible beauty.

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

MR : As an award-winning designer, I never stop learning. True skill means always being a student. Success brings greater challenges: your reputation depends on constant growth. Staying relevant means being a level higher than your previous version in every step you take.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

MR : Of course, seeing my hard work recognized feels rewarding - but this isn't the finish line. I refuse to settle at any achievement. Each milestone actually deepens my responsibility: to push further, to create richer, more meaningful work. These honors aren't endpoints - they're fuel.

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

MR : My favorite places are my homeland, with its ancient history, rich culture, and inspiring landscapes, and Dubai, my current home, where modernity and opportunity bloom beneath desert skies. It is a peaceful and safe country with all its beauty and friendly people. Italy is another place I like, with its warm people, magnificent monuments, and rich cultural spirit. Some of my fondest memories were made in Italy. Among seasons, I like spring for being the season for rebirth, and winter, because I really like the serenity of snowfall. My favorite color is various shades of blue. At the table, I prefer fresh vegetables and salads, and I’m very fond of seafood.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

MR : My parents expected me to become an artist since my childhood. Every wallpaper in our house was covered with my paintings, and everyone visiting our home could have a tour of my childish artwork. I remember painting on every surface I found, even on napkins. Drawing and painting was always my true passion. I always gave my paintings to my friends as a gift.

DL: What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

MR : In a thousand years, the meaning of art will be different from what we perceive in art today. When we look at prehistoric artwork these days, we deeply feel the difference between those artworks and what we call art today. The same thing will happen with the artwork created a thousand years from now. The progress of technology in the field of art will be immense.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

MR : I would like to take this opportunity to thank A' Design for organizing this competition. I appreciate the effort put into creating such a valuable experience for all participants.It’s clear that a lot of thought and hard work went into making this competition successful.