Interview

A college student recently wrote me to ask some general questions about being a designer. I thought the interview was actually interesting and thought I'd post the questions and answers here.



1. What first attracted you towards graphic design?
I always knew I was interested in design. When I was younger there was a contest at the facility I took dance classes at. It was for a T-shirt design for the dance school’s annual recital. The best T-shirt design would be printed. I won the contest and from there continued to design all sorts of things. I think I was about 12 at the time I gained an interest.

2. Why did you choose graphic design over another concentration in the art field?
While drawing and painting tend to be a passion, I also appreciate the importance of making a steady income. Graphic design allows me to still be creative, to problem solve and to count on a paycheck!

3. What topics are currently being discussed related to graphic design? Do these topics actively affect you?
There’s a lot going around about eco-friendly graphic design. This is something I’m very passionate about and I have incorporated sustainable practices into my personal life for years. When I started my design business, it only felt natural to do the same.

Being an eco-friendly designer means thinking the entire project through right from the start. This means planning a design that will use less paper and that has overall less ink coverage. I push my clients to print on eco-friendly papers and to use soy or vegetable-based inks when possible.

Because this is such a trend in the design world right now, it’s been great for business and for gaining clients! Plus, I’m working a job that I’m passionate about.

4. What type of reading do you do for your job?
Since I’m an entrepreneur, I read a lot about running a business, specifically a creative one. I have to wear a lot of hats as a business owner. While I’d much rather be designing, I also have to play the role of the sales rep and of the accountant, etc. Since I went to college for art and design, I didn’t learn a lot of those business skills in classes. Now I have to pick them up on my own. Furthermore, I think it’s important for any designer to have decent client-relation skills so books on selling and communication are highly recommended.

When I’m not reading those books, I’m flipping through books such as Logo Lounge or magazines like HOW to get a feel for what’s going on in the industry (aesthetically speaking).

5. Could you suggest any academic journals that might help me learn more about the field?
The American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA) is an organization dedicated to graphic designers and the field. They put out loads of helpful information and deliver it as a newsletter and as informational updates if you join. If you want to check it out, their website is loaded with articles and references too. Visit http://www.aiga.org.


6. What type of writing is expected out of you in this field? Do you do any writing on a daily or weekly basis?
I have to write a lot more than I thought I would. First there’s the client side of things. They may bring me a sale or event that their store is having and ask to have a post card designed. The next question usually is, “Can you give us a headline for this as well?” I’ve picked up a few writing skills along the way, but for anything that requires real talent, I have a copywriter I pass referrals to.

I also have to write at least once weekly for my blog. I take those posts and format them into articles to gain traffic for my website by posting them to search hubs like http://www.scribd.com/. Finally, my website took a little copywriting too. I did have some input for that by a professional as well.

7. Do you have any advice for students who are hoping to enter into the field of graphic design?
I think it’s really important to get an internship. Not only does it build your resume for job-hunting some day, but it also allows you to “test-drive” the career. Some people find out design is not for them, and that’s okay. Of course, learning this sooner than later can be a big help!

On the technical side, there’s quite a learning curve from the classroom to the actual job site. While colleges and university do the best they can to prepare students, there’s nothing like diving right in to gain experience, learn new skills (both design and people-wise) and to get an inside-look at the design world.

Graphic Design and Politics

Politics seems to be at the forefront of everyone's mind lately; and it should be. One of the most important elections in our country's history is less than one month away. In reading up on yesterday's presidential debate, I came across a few articles that mentioned the "branding" Obama has used in his campaign. The full article is on Newsweek's website and is extremely interesting. A small excerpt from author Andrew Romano is below:

Obama's success owes a lot, of course, to his message--the promise to pass Democratic policies by rallying a "coalition for change." But watching Obamamania over the past few weeks, I've become convinced that there's something more subtle at work, too. It's not just the message and the man and the speeches that are swaying Democratic voters--though they are. It's the way the campaign has folded the man and the message and the speeches into a systemic branding effort. Reinforced with a coherent, comprehensive program of fonts, logos, slogans and web design, Obama is the first presidential candidate to be marketed like a high-end consumer brand.* And for folks who don't necessarily need Democratic social programs--upscale voters, young people--I suspect that the novel comfort of that brand affiliation contributes (however subconsciously) to his appeal.

On another note, I found a cool website that offers free downloads of anti-war posters. The well designed propaganda can be checked out at http://www.anotherposterforpeace.org/.

Typographical Art

Lately I've been looking at artwork to decorate my office space. I need something that expresses my personality, but that looks "designerly" and smart as well. In researching different artists and different types of pieces to hang, I've come across some really interesting work related to design. Check out the work below:


Lisa Whipkey



Lynnette Prock




Pottery Barn




Font Coasters: Etsy: CarolinaCottage



Etsy: YeeHaw



Etsy: thetypejunkie



Etsy: UnknownArtist76

13thirtyone is Moving!

Hello, hello. As mentioned in previous posts, I've been looking for an office space. I officially signed on the dotted line and am set to start moving on July 1st. It's a big step for 13thirtyone, but I feel it's the right one. Regardless, I'm still making the commitment to keep my office space as eco-friendly as I can.

I don't have keys-in-hand yet, but when I do, I'll be sure to take a few photos. The office needs a bit of work, so I'd be more than happy to walk you through the "befores" and "afters" of my office makeover. In the meantime, here's the little street in downtown Hudson that'll be my new home away from home. The tall building in the center (aka "The Hatch Building") is where my office resides. I'll be in the upstairs portion.

Oh yeah, and sorry for the sun spots on the images...

Company Logo Smackdown

I was sent this scan of an article by a prospective client from Fortune Magazine. It takes some of the country's most well-known logos and narrows it down the most effective one. Click on the image to enlarge.

Ha!

I was book shopping on Amazon.com this weekend. Check out the pricing!

The Importance of Brainstorming

Sorry I haven't written in a few weeks. A lot's been happening here at 13thirtyone. Everything from client work to looking at office spaces to self-promotion has been keeping me away. But enough excuses.

Over the past few weeks a lot of items have crossed my desk that require brainstorming. First and foremost, creating effective logos for clients always requires the correct amount of thinking and research. Also, one of my blog readers wrote me an email recently regarding the naming process of her business; she had been idea generating for a while and was beginning to feel frustrated. Finally, a lot of time and energy went into deciding whether or not 13thirtyone was ready to take the next step; should I move into an office and leave my eco-friendly set-up behind to start fresh?

I realized with all of these challenges the importance of thinking things through. We live in a society where we need instant gratification. Drive through winows and TiVo give us what we want in a hurry; whatever happened to smelling the roses? I tried to keep this in mind when I found myself getting bogged down by so many thoughts all at once.

So, while this may not be any new insight regarding the "world of graphic design," let it serve as a reminder to slow down. Take the time to follow through in your thought processes. Brainstorming and truly sorting out your thoughts can only lead to more effective design AND more profitable decisions for your life and business.

Call For Entries: Logo Lounge Book 5

Just a little reminder, Logo Lounge is officially accepting entries for Rockport Publisher's next book, Logo Lounge 5. By being a paid member and uploading your logo designs to the site, all work is automatically entered into the contest for publication. See rules below:

LogoLounge has become an indispensable research tool, reference guide and online portfolio for the international who's who in identity design community. It is the site of record, information and inspiration for logo design. From legends to up-and-comers, LogoLounge is the place to be.

From the web site has grown an extremely popular series of books. Full of inspiration and insight from cover to cover, LogoLounge Volumes 1, 2, 3 and 4 feature a collection of the world's best logos, chosen by prestigious panels of jurors.



// DEADLINE: JUNE 30TH, 2008

BOOK 5 SUBMISSIONS BEGIN NOW: Entries for Book 5 are being accepted right now. All logos posted to the LogoLounge.com site are automatically entered, so members are encouraged to upload regularly. (For more information on membership, please Join Now.) Only LogoLounge members are eligible to enter. No additional fees or forms required.

Entries must be posted to LogoLounge.com on or before June 30th, 2008 according to the site’s specifications to qualify. (Logos submitted after this date will be collected for consideration for Book 6.)

For more rules, instructions on how to submit, and pricing info, visit the site at logolounge.com.

Lights Out: March 29th at 8pm!

I receive daily emails from IdealBite.com. Below is today's email - read and participate in tomorrow's Earth Hour.

Is 7 minutes in the dark long enough?

The Bite
Only if you're an awkward, slobbery teenager. Otherwise, turn the lights off for a full hour tomorrow starting at 8 p.m. your time, and you'll join millions of people around the planet coming together for a cause even greater than a teen's first kiss: global warming.

The Benefits
Immediate impact. Last year's Earth Hour, which happened only in Sydney, Australia, had the effect of taking 48,000 cars off the road for an hour. This year's event is global, so savings will be even bigger.
Long-term impact. Earth Hour organizers are also raising awareness by promoting energy-efficient lighting.
Fun in the dark, without being stuck in a closet. (But hey, if you wanna spend 60 minutes shacked up with your linens, it's your call.) Get together with friends, and make a night of it.
Personally Speaking
We're armed and ready for tomorrow night with beeswax candles and make-out partners.

Wanna Try?
Turn 'em off at 8 p.m. your local time, Mar. 29 (that's tomorrow).
Earth Hour - pledge to turn off your lights here, and receive Earth Hour updates and tips.

Nothing to do With Design...

This has nothing to do with design. I found this online today and though the video was amazing. Only ten minutes, and the least you can get out of it is a good conversation piece.



Path To Freedom

One last video...

I have to post one more video. I found this so interesting... and sad. A few people did a "Jay-Walking" type interview with random folks from the streets of Australia. Find out what these people really think about graphic design.

Funny Graphic Designer Video

I was sent a link to this graphic design video on You Tube... so true, except for the super hero part. ;)

The Graphic Avenger - Trust Your Graphic Designer


Technorati Tags: [graphic design][freelance][self promotion][networking][You Tube Video]

Why the Long Faces?

Pardon the hippie reference, but there seems to be a lot of bad energy lately when it comes to designers. In forums, emails and blog posts, I've read about designers being frustrated with their clients, clients being frustrated with their designers and when it's time to cut the cord. Don't get me wrong, we all get frustrated. We all have those little glitches that arise as we go about our day. But whatever happened to staying positive?

I recently had a troubling client situation. Of course I turned to other designers as a resource, asking how they'd handle the problem or if they had experience with it before. In looking for help, I found a lot of finger pointing and answers pertaining to, "it's you vs. the client."

I know it's bitterly cold outside (At least in Wisconsin. Today's temperature is a goosebump raising -8˚ F) and we're all getting a little itchy to go outside and enjoy some sunshine. But whatever happened to positive thinking? I've come to realized that when I'm down, not only do my client relationships suffer, but my work does as well.

For a while now, I've been reading positive affirmations everyday. These can be inspirational, focus on love, success or happiness, or even be religious if you're into that. Mine help me to stay positive during the winter blues and help me to keep an edge on my client situations. They help me to remember that being nasty and finger pointing is no way to solve any client dilemma. It's true what they say - you can attract more bees with honey than with vinegar.

Pardon my rambling, ranting or whichever you'd like to call it. I'm just sharing my thoughts on something I've seem to come across several times now. Cheer up!

Plug for kick

My clients/friends run the cutest shoe boutique I've ever set foot in. They run their kick in downtown La Crosse, WI and since they're pretty new, there's unfortunately only one store. However, kick is now selling their wonderful shoes online.

If you want to take a peek at shoes high in fashion and quality, take a peek at their site (designed by yours truly).

Weird...

In my most recent post I mentioned this whole desk feng-shui thing. I actually cut out pieces of paper (borderline-nutty, I know) and placed them under my desk, as instructed. The whole idea is that these little cut-outs will bring me good luck and prosperity. Of course we're all skeptical, but why not give it a go? (Note: one thing I love about the holiday season - it's slow enough to play with these crazy ideas)

My desk daisy has been in full bloom for about a week. In fear of sounding like a whack-job, it's working. Old colleagues have reached out to me for networking opportunities, two referrals have come in the door, clients are suddenly paying their open balances and money is rolling in. Hmmm. Hard to deny the good fortune I've had lately. Do you really chalk it up this feng-shui stuff?

So, I ask you... does feng-shui really work? Have you ever tried it and gotten results? Tell me, I want to know!

Experiment: Desk Daisy

A while back I had written a post about some office feng-shui one can do to help bring prosperity to their career/business. The subject fascinates me and while I try to place my desktop plant in the right corner of the desk, I haven't done much else to push the "feng shui energy" along. Some people swear up and down by it and some people snicker. I thought, I'd conduct a little year-end experiment.

One of the easiest ways to feng-shui your desk is to simply cut out pieces of colored construction paper and to place them on the underside of your desk. Using the colored grid, or bagua, cut out petal shapes for each color. The center gua, or yellow square, should be cut into a circular circle. When finished, you'll have a yellow center with 8 flower petals around it. Each flower petal is a specific color, representing a square of the bagua.

It is said that by taping this to the underside of your desk, and by placing this daisy pattern so the black petal is pointing to you, the red away from you, the white pointing to the right, the green to the left, etc., feng shui will help to enhance your career.

Knowing the status that my business is in now, I thought I would publish my experience. Does this feng shui daisy help or is it just a bit of hidden clutter under my desk? Time will tell. Stay tuned for updates.

A little scary

In chatting with a friend yesterday we were talking about my business. And during the conversation she said, "That has to be scary. You're solely responsible for your own income. So if there's no work, there's no money."

Sure I just nodded in agreement and offered up a flimsy, "Yeah." But my eyes definitely widened a bit. Of course I already know this and force myself not to think about it too much because it is a scary thought. Obviously, the idea of starting your own business revolves around taking care of yourself and your clients. But every now and then, especially when your best friend reinforces it, the idea can creep one out a bit.

Naturally, a self-employed person needs to worry about these things. So how do you keep money coming in when work isn't? The answer is difficult to put into action but simple to learn. Saving. When work is great and the big bucks are rolling in, that money needs to roll directly into the bank. Big paydays don't mean bigger paychecks. It means more security and a few more months of income added to the old savings account.

While a dry spell could last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, it's so important to continue marketing and networking. Those project dollars will start rolling in again. You just have to learn to keep yourself afloat until they do.

Cool Sites

Not having much to blog about today, I thought I would credit some sites I find are very worthy of a visit. The following are a list of sites that include fonts, downloadable images, etc. They're fun to look at if nothing else. If you have any you'd like to forward my way, I love to see them!

Fenderskirts Vintage Artwork
Such cool photography and clip art. I love this site. Also serves for great inspiration in itself.

Havana Street
An awesome portal for retro clipart sites. Good time saver.

Monkey In A Dryer
An awesome screen and apparel printer in Richfield, Mn. Cool site.


Misprinted Type
Nice retro style site with lots of freeware.


GirlsWhoWearGlasses.com
Website that offers fonts, photos and example pieces by the artist.

Business Card Etiquette

I truly believe that there are etiquette rules to be followed when one passes out their business card. After all, the point of this exchange is to provoke action on the prospect's part. If I had out my card in an obnoxious manner, who's going to call me?

Unfortunately, I think today I was borderline obnoxious. Who knows if this will generate any business for me. But, I thought to myself, I'll regret it more if I don't speak up about what I do than if I say something. So, here's the story. I was at this cute little gift shop in downtown Hudson. It's very kitschy and retro and they're such a unique store. I love it. I was grabbing a few early Christmas gifts and saw their logo on the window and thought, "That's not bad. I wonder who does their design work."

Of course, the wheels won't stop turning. I'm then thinking, do they have good looking business cards? Who's doing their website? Do they even have a website? I grab my final items and go to the register to pay. The woman at the till seemed to have a little more authority than your average worker. So I asked, "Do you guys have a website? You know, so that people out of town can order your items online?" She says, "No, but it's a great idea. It's something we've wanted to do for a while but just haven't gotten around to. I have a friend who does websites though. Maybe after the holiday rush slows down."

I wasn't sure how to proceed. She said she has a friend who can build one. But what if her friend won't want to? Hmmm... My mind is reeling as I pay for my items, not knowing whether to throw her my card or not. Finally, I thought, go for it. "You know what?" I said. "I'm just going to give this to you. You can toss it if you're not interested, but I actually do websites. Give me a call if you want to move forward. Again, feel free to throw it out if you're not into it though." I said it. She looked at me and goes, "Hey, thanks!" Hmmm...

I'm usually a pretty good analyst when it comes to reading these types of reactions, but not this time. Bummer. I paid for my items, she was nice, and of course, I continued to try to stay light hearted. After something like that it's hard to keep the conversation at a light tone. I just solicited, didn't I?

So, that's about as obnoxious as I get... I think. If you want to make a good impression, the tone you create while handing out your card is so important. I think the way you give it to someone, not just them having it in the first place, is what could make or break the deal. We'll see what happens.

Art Field Trip

Yesterday was my birthday and I celebrated by taking the day off of work and visiting a few art museums around the Twin Cities. My day started at the University of Minnesota's museum, the Weisman. The building itself is beautiful. They have a piece by one of my favorite artists, Robert Motherwell, along with an enormous Roy Lichtenstein (sp?). But what I really enjoyed about this particular visit was their current installation piece. The artist had set up an old apartment building hallway - including dim lighting, spills on the walls, and even apartment building smells. The objective was to walk up to each of the six doors and lean in your ear to have a listen. If you got close enough, an audio recording would start of what was going on behind the door. Very interesting.

I then headed off to the Minneapolis Institue of Art. They're currently exhibiting some earlier works by Georgia O'Keeffe. Oddly, there weren't very many flower paintings at all. They were much more primitive pieces including her pelvic bone studies and even some abstractions. It was an entirely different O'Keeffe exhibit to me.

Finally, I visited the Walker Art Center. Also a wonderful building. The current showing was the Frida Kahlo exhibit which includes several breathtaking paintings along with a photographic display from her personal album. I knew of Kahlo before, but after seeing her showing, I am extremely intrigued by her work. Her emotions are clearly portrayed in every painting - so vividly, it's easy to pick up on what she's trying to communicate. I found all three museums very refreshing and a great way to spend my birthday.