The pursuit of learning new things — whether in design or in life — is worth all my energy. I promise my collaborators — students and clients — passion and commitment to be both mentor and partner as we journey through our visual education.
INVESTIGATE & QUESTION
Always question! Designers must always be learning — whether they are working to understand a basic problem or discover a new way of communicating an idea. The development and exploration of the idea are as important, if not more important, than the final piece. I strive to teach students to explore their ideas by questioning concepts and pushing technical limits. I believe it’s the only way we can grow as visual thinkers.
LOOK AT THE DETAILS
Attention to small details is what separates a mediocre layout from an extraordinary communication. When a student sees how elements relate on the page or screen and starts making connections, I know good design will follow. And I know the light bulb is eternally burning when a student complains about the awful design he/she has observed. Detail-oriented design is an addiction I hope my students won’t be able to kick.
EDUCATE VS. TRAIN
Design is a way of thinking, not just a job or software training. It’s a tightrope every design educator must walk; how much time should be spent teaching the tools of the trade? I teach the basic operations of a software program, just as a fine art instructor teaches how to mix paints or etch a plate. The computer is simply a medium of design. I start a new project with some helpful hints in the appropriate program, and then I focus on the realization of the student’s concept. I also stress that good design isn’t made from filters and effects, it’s the idea behind the visual message.
COLLABORATE & CRITIQUE
More brains are better than one. I see excitement and energy when groups are generating ideas. This type of collaboration teaches perspective more effectively than I ever could by standing in front of the class and lecturing about the topic. Working with others is the best part of design and teaching. Not all projects begin with a group, but it should end in one. A critique can be the most dynamic part of the process. It opens new avenues and improves the quality and creativity of ideas, as well as the final product. Design should always be a collaborative effort, in concept and completion.