milky pink space

issue 00

Conversation

w/ Jane Lee Jopkins






Jane Lee Jopkins loves building art onchain, likes licorice tea, and shows us the difference between good & great design.


In the rapidly evolving world of crypto, where blockchain meets design, Jane Lee Jopkins is a name that shines brightly. With her innovative approach to user experiences, she's reshaping the way we interact with the decentralized web. In this interview, we delve deep into Jane's background, her technological journey, her insights on creativity, and her visions for the future.


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Jane, let's start with your background. What led you to the world of web3 design?

JLJ: Thanks for having me! My journey into web3 design is a bit unconventional. I started as a traditional graphic designer, crafting visuals for print and web. However, in 2017, the buzz around blockchain technology piqued my curiosity. I saw the potential for design to play a pivotal role i

n making this technology accessible and user-friendly. So, I embarked on a self-guided crash course in blockchain, smart contracts, and dapps, and it's been an exhilarating ride ever since.

That's quite the leap! Can you explain what crypto means to you?

Absolutely! web3 design, to me, is all about building bridges between complex blockchain systems and everyday users. It's the art of creating interfaces and experiences that empower individuals within the decentralized web. It's about making blockchain technology not only functional but also enjoyable and intuitive to use. It's the intersection of aesthetics, usability, and trust in a trustless environment.

Fascinating! Could you share some of the key principles that guide your web3 design philosophy?

JLJ: Certainly! Here are some principles I hold dear:

1. User-Centricity: The user always comes first. I aim to make web3 interfaces as user-friendly as possible, even for those new to the technology.

2. Transparency and Trust: In web3, trust is paramount. Design should facilitate understanding and trust in blockchain systems, promoting transparency at every step.

3. Seamless Integration: web3 is part of a broader digital ecosystem. Design should prioritize interoperability, ensuring that users can move between web3 and the traditional web with ease.

4. Innovation: Embracing emerging technologies is essential. I'm constantly experimenting with new tools and methods to push the boundaries of what's possible in web3 design.

5. Security: Protecting users' assets and data is non-negotiable. My designs are rooted in robust security principles.



What are some of the most exciting projects you've worked on in crypto?

JLJ: There have been so many exciting projects! One that stands out is a decentralized identity platform aimed at giving users control over their digital identities. It's been a thrilling challenge to create a seamless, secure, and privacy-focused experience in this context. Another project involved designing an NFT marketplace that prioritizes artist royalties and environmental sustainability, which aligns with my passion for ethical design.

What are some of the most pressing challenges you face as a web3 designer today?

Jane Lee Jopkins: One challenge is striking a balance between security and user-friendliness. We must ensure that users have easy access to their assets while also protecting them from potential threats.

Scalability and blockchain network limitations are also persistent challenges. High gas fees and network congestion can hinder the user experience. Additionally, there's the ongoing task of educating users about the intricacies of blockchain technology, making it accessible without overwhelming them.

Lastly, what's your vision for the future of Web3 design?

JLJ: My vision is a future where crypto design is seamlessly integrated into our digital lives. I see a world where blockchain technology becomes an everyday tool, and users interact with it effortlessly, whether they're managing digital assets, participating in decentralized governance, or exploring novel virtual worlds. Ultimately, I hope to continue pushing the boundaries of web3, making it more inclusive, intuitive, and exciting for all.


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