AMPDA 2023: John Tan on teamwork & resilience at Creteart Design Studio

by Aisha Capulong

John sat down with QCtv to share how negative feedback helps him turn challenges into opportunities for growth, both personally and professionally

Although most know John as the CEO of Creteart Design Studio, he was once also a state-level rower in his uni days. He asserts how that experience instilled in him a love for adventure and a natural inclination to step outside his comfort zone. Because of that experience, John considers teamwork and resilience to be essential elements that he often highlights to his team members so that they, too, can navigate the ever-changing world of design swimmingly. He also finds that negative feedback is an extremely valuable tool for improvement in the way that it allows him to refine his approach if he ever comes across similar situations.

Among his proudest moments is his Asia’s Most Prestigious Designer Award (AMPDA) win with DOTY. John sees it as validation for his team’s hard work, dedication and commitment. As he celebrates the significant milestone, he adds how excited he is to see what the future holds for him and his team over at Creteart Design Studio. With John’s admiration for Dame Zaha Hadid’s incredible work, he has hopes of becoming a design studio that exists at the forefront of innovation, and is dedicated to nurturing young talent through mentorships.

When the Creteart Design Studio CEO first realised his standing within the industry, his first word of advice for aspiring designers is to stay open-minded and seek to build strong relationships with the key players and stakeholders that they closely interact with. “Remember that success doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient, and find a boss that has the passion to grow alongside you.”