ERIC TENG
DIVERSIFIED MEDIA DESIGN

Eric Teng is the creative lead for Diversified Media Design's clients and directs the graphic design division at the firm. With over 15 years of experience, he has created memorable programs for a diverse clientele, including Prudential Financial, Credit Suisse, Column Financial, Miracle Day USA, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, JPMorgan Chase, American Skandia, Sony BMG and Universal Music. Prior to joining DMD, Teng was a founder and creative director of Hatch, an innovative graphic design firm grounded in solid business strategy. He also served as the creative lead at DeSantis Breindel and VCG (a member of Grey Global Group), where he managed large-scale branding initiatives for leading financial, insurance and technology companies. Teng's work has been recognized by Blackbook AR100, Global Corporate Identity, HOW magazine, Graphic Design USA, Step By Step and the Mohawk Show. He is an AIGA mentor to high school design students who seek careers in art and design. A graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, Teng holds a B.F.A. in graphic design. Integrating marketing, technology and creative expertise, DMD is a champion for its clients' institutional and business goals. DMD consults with senior managers in business, cultural, government and educational institutions and not-for-profits to create compelling and inspiring narratives and solutions through a network of world-class and award-winning talent.

Was graphic design your first career path?

I knew when I was 12 that I'd have a career in design. My parents, God bless Œem, had other ideas, but there was never a doubt in my mind that this was what I was destined to do. So, yes, graphic design has been my one and only career path. I still have too many creative flashes swirling around in my head at any given moment — that's why I still love what I do. When those flashes stop coming, I'll be very sad.

What talents do you wish you possessed?

I always wished I could play the piano. Well.

When you have a deadline, do you start right away, wait until the last minute or switch back and forth between projects?

I used to wait until the last minute. That's when I was at my best — under pressure. These days, I'm too old, anal and organized (and maybe too wise?) to start at the last minute. Now it's all about getting more out of everything. I hate wasting time.

Where do you turn for inspiration?

I've said this so many times before, but living in New York City provides the greatest inspiration, hands down. On any given day, something or someone I see — whether I'm walking around the city, riding the subway or elbowing my way through Times Square — easily inspires me. Kids also inspire me these days, especially teens. The amazing and jaw-dropping things that come out of their mouths humble me.

What is your worst habit?

Letting dishes pile up in the sink. I HATE doing dishes.

Should graphic design be an instrument for positive social change?

Yes, absolutely. I have been a mentor through the AIGA to high school students for the past three years, and I can say that it's personally one of the most rewarding and positive experiences I've ever had. To have the power to positively shape a child's future is a great privilege that I don't take lightly. Sometimes they're a handful, and it can be frustrating. But nothing replaces the knowledge that you've made a positive difference (no matter how small) in their world. Sounds corny, I know, but it's the truth.

previous back to main page next