Sunday, January 25, 2009

How do I create?

After watching the Ken Robinson TED talk, I felt that there were many valid points that were mentioned in the discussion. I thought that when he mentioned how we grow out of our creativity and that our education suppresses it, is an accurate statement. Throughout our whole education, it has been mandatory to take such courses as english, math, and science. We have been taught that such classes will lead to great success within our future. However, courses that allow for creativity are fun, but will not lead to a stable career. I feel that this assumption is false. I feel that there does need to be more of an emphasis on the creative arts in the education system for many reasons. Being creative allows for learning and evolving past standard thinking and problem solving methods. Creativity also acts as a form of expression and communication. To some, creativity is the only solution to release emotions, and ideas.

When discussing the TED talk in class, there were many aspects of the talk that were mentioned. One of the key topics were mistakes. We have all been taught that making mistakes is wrong; however, I feel otherwise. Making mistakes is important to learn and evolve. We need to be able to embrace our mistakes and use them in order to make something positive from that. Furthermore, we need to accept different styles of learning. It is important to know how we learn and and what inspires us creatively. Creativity comes from different views, experiences, and lifestyles. We need to use how we view things, and combine that with other beliefs, and experiences.

After learning about the 100 Habits of a Successful Graphic Designer, I thought that they were very inspirational. I think that it is so interesting that as a graphic designer, we can be inspired by the world and our surroundings. It is important to be inspired in order to be creative and to produce unique work. I feel that I can relate to the list that we discussed and I will continue to try and use some of these methods in order to be motivated and inspired. From the list that was given, I feel that I can relate to a variety of these. However, the one statement that I feel I can relate the most to is “Look at the everyday world for inspiration”. I think that this statement is important because everywhere we look, we see some form of creativity and inspiration, we just have to be aware of it. Furthermore, I feel that I can relate to this statement the most because I am constantly looking at my surroundings for inspiration. I am always looking at signs, poster, advertisements etc. for inspiration. I then analyze them, and used what I have learned and incorporate it into my future ideas.

In the context of design and creativity I am someone who is trying to change, adapt, and grow to stay on the cutting edge, and current of times.

Sunday, January 18, 2009

Design is....

Design is about communication. As a designer, we must be able to communicate a message to a target market. Therefore, we must be able to understand the demographics and geographics in order to make a successful design. Every design has a purpose and message that must have impact, be memorable and stand out in a consumers mind. Design is important because it is a form of communication and expression that the target audience can relate to. Furthermore, design is informative and is meant to reach a variety of people. Design is limitless.

Design is everywhere we look, and can be created by anyone, even if it is not intentional or they are unaware. Design is created by anyone who has something they would like to communicate and share with the world.

When I experience good design, I am inspired and motivated to learn. Often, I find myself analyzing and studying the design to determine the message, purpose, and what makes the design effective. I then try to incorporate what I have learned to my future design ideas.

I chose to be a designer because I have always enjoyed using my creativity to solve problems, or to convey an emotion or a message. Throughout my schooling, I have enjoyed various courses that have allowed me to use my creativity. Courses such as art, graphic design, media, marketing etc. have allowed me to learn how to create effective designs. I also enjoy the challenge of communicating a message through design, to a specific audience. During this process, it is important to determine the needs and wants of that particular demographic. I enjoy this because it allows be to study people, while using that knowledge to produce something creative. Furthermore, there are numerous aspects to design. This will allow me to use my creativity in various forms of media; therefore, this will allow me to grow as a designer.

There are many emotions that I experience when I design. At times, when I experience something that I find difficult, I feel stress. However, no matter how difficult the project is, I always feel proud. I feel a great deal of accomplishment and confidence with my work and how much I have grown.