How did you get into web design?

I started in print design, specifically magazine design, and eventually moved to the web.

Do you remember the very first site you designed?

Yes, it was basically a portfolio site. Even though I had now idea what I was doing, I remember it being a lot of fun to make.

Describe how your work process usually flows, how do you like to start, what are the key points to consider, etc.?

I usually start on paper and explore navigation concepts that suit the theme of the site. I start designing after I?ve figured out how things will work, navigate, move.

You are doing a lot of museum exhibition subsites. Is this a specialization for you?

Since working at a museum, it has become one.

Where do you get your art for these webpages?

The art is provided by the curatorial departments of the museum. One of the biggest luxuries I have here is consistently working with fantastic imagery. It makes my job much easier.

Why do you think CSS design is becoming so popular among web designers?

It's efficient. And since it has become a standard in certain circles, not using it is sometimes looked down upon.

What do you think about Flash technology?

I use it for most of the larger projects I do, so you could say that I'm a fan.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Flash?

The flexibility it offers can be wonderful. But when used gratuitously, it can be a drag. I've been guilty of the latter, unfortunately.

If you could eliminate one trend from the Web, what would it be? Why?

On a very inconsequential note, I'm getting a little tired of reflective surfaces a la the iTunes interface.

Tell us about your use of colors in your designs.

I'm usually very sparing in my use of color. Generally, the art provides the color.

You're a web designer and a creative person - describe the creative process and how you stimulate yourself?

The process starts with pen and paper, but I haven't found a foolproof method for turning on? my creativity. If you find one, please let me know.

What tool-set do you choose to use in your work? What do you believe the benefits are?

I use Flash and css/html for my web projects, with a bit of video/audio thrown in. This allows me to realize most of what I need to do. The gritty backend stuff sometimes goes to a real developer.

What does 'clean interface' mean to you?

It would be one that is lean and efficient. Each and every element and interaction would serve to quickly convey the information and further the concept of the site.

What language do you use for coding? Why?

Actionscript and html/css. . . mostly because I don't know other languages. Luckily, these allow me to do most everything I need to. Sometimes I wish that I knew more backend technologies. . . but then I remember that I'm a better designer than programmer.

In solving problems what kinds of process or guides do you use.

I try to the do more thinking before executing. For example, when I design, I force myself to stick to pen and paper until I'm certain that the idea is strong. If I switch to the computer prematurely, I end up confined to an idea that might not be as strong as it could be because I only polish concepts once on the computer, I don't create them.

What are your sources of inspiration?

When I'm doing exhibition sites, I try to find inspiration in the ideas of the artist or the themes of the exhibitions. On a general level, I suppose it would magazines, web sites and art that I look to for ideas most often. But anything that I come across can be unexpectedly inspiring: architecture, people, traffic, dreams, food...

What are your favorite website designs that you did and did NOT design yourself?

There are so many. . . I like the Chipotle site at http://chipotle.com for it's utility and humor. Order food through the Flash interface is easy and entertaining. Please note that this is not an endorsement of the food. As for a site that I designed, I'd have to say that it would be Richard Serra Sculpture: Forty Years at http://moma.org/serra.

What was the toughest project or customer situation you've encountered?

I'd rather not discuss it since they might end up reading this interview!

What were the mistakes you learned from most while in the web design industry?

When presenting static comps, it's really important to be able to explain how things will work, especially to those who are not so well versed in the Web. I've presented great ideas, but have had them shot down since I wasn't able to describe them effectively.

What is it you most like and dislike about being a web designer?

I like the mix of the creative and analytical thinking. The visual and conceptual side of design uses the right side of the brain while the execution relies on the left.

You've worked with many people. What makes for a good web team?

Humor, knowledge and talent. It's also important to have someone who likes to bring in snacks.

What blogs or magazines would you suggest reading in order to broaden one's knowledge?

'Step' magazine often has interesting articles. 'Commarts' and 'Print' have great annuals. Designobserver.com is good for checking on what the design theory heavyweights are talking about.

What advice would you give to beginning web designers?

Don't let the technology drive - the idea should inform all aspects of the project.

Thank you, Shannon, for your unique and esthetic viewpoints on website design.