10.26.2011
10.25.2011
Break Time #32
I'm back. Well, I had a free moment.
To restart, my return, my task was to find an image I like, and find a letter that corresponds to the image. I chose this man from the back ad of a Wired Magazine. Instead of the full composition I chose to concentrate on the man's face. I noticed the chiseled lines, curves, attitude and smirk on his face. The letter that came to exude all of these same properties is the Baskerville Q.
I think the Q can be one of the most elegant letter forms. The tail is what gives the Q it's attitude and flair. Much like this picture, the Baskerville Q has a smirk. Something telling the world that "I need to be reckoned with because I am perfectly crafted". That is what Baskerville was seeking with his font, perfection.
To learn more about Baskerville and his amazing font, go here.
To restart, my return, my task was to find an image I like, and find a letter that corresponds to the image. I chose this man from the back ad of a Wired Magazine. Instead of the full composition I chose to concentrate on the man's face. I noticed the chiseled lines, curves, attitude and smirk on his face. The letter that came to exude all of these same properties is the Baskerville Q.
I think the Q can be one of the most elegant letter forms. The tail is what gives the Q it's attitude and flair. Much like this picture, the Baskerville Q has a smirk. Something telling the world that "I need to be reckoned with because I am perfectly crafted". That is what Baskerville was seeking with his font, perfection.
To learn more about Baskerville and his amazing font, go here.
10.04.2011
Break Time #31
A woman in a Home Depot/Lowes store is sometimes an odd site. Well, usually she is with her husband and couldn't look more interested in the place. This is partitally due to the machismo that is given off in these places.
If a woman is to feel more at home, there might be a couple of improvements to make.
If a woman is to feel more at home, there might be a couple of improvements to make.
- Entrance is lined with flowers and other plants to give off a lively feel, and the smell would carry into the store.
- Lower ceilings would help the place feel more comfortable and homey.
- The paint section is immediately off to the right, and the customer service is off to the left of the entrance.
- The aisles would be going through the middle of the store.
- The first four aisles are based on the seasons. The actual number of aisles used would be based on inventory per season.
- The aisles remaining aisles would be the nuts/bolts/and everything else.
- All aisles would have signage at both and signage up above them.
- Because the ceilings are low, the aisles would be short, so there is no massive stock display up above them.
- The products would have pegs with easy to understand labels, and all within reasonable reach.
- The floor would have a tile pattern throughout the store, except in the areas where it could be damaged by machinery.
- Throughout the aisles would be live displays of tools, or how to use all of the pieces that you find there.
- Associates would be trained heavily in specific sections (along with general knowledge of the store) and patrol them to answer questions.
- The back of the store is the display area of everything. The kitchen in the middle.
- Bathroom off to the left.
- Outdoor furniture/doors/windows/mowers section off to the right leading outside.
- Lumber furthest left wall.
- Carts are small/easy to manage with or without children in them.
- Easy to find bathrooms.
- Self or employee checkout is easy to navigate.
- No product traps on the way out of the store.
9.26.2011
Break Time #30
Sometimes I wonder what it would be like not to have a left hand. I don't use it that much, my dominant hand is my right one. I don't think I've ever used it for a sketch either! There is a first time for everything though! I had to create a squiggle (blue line) with my left hand, and complete a drawing related to sports with the right hand. If I could ever grow decent facial hair, and I could pitch better, this would be me on the mound! I'd rocket the ball in at 102 every time, and never throw a ball. It would be awesome, and all thanks to the 'stache.
9.18.2011
Break Time #29
I had an assignment in school that I had to design a bench that nobody would want to sit on. After thinking and sketching, I decided to make my bench look like a piece of poop. I also had a pretty creative solution for how to build it, but that's a story for another time. The park bench is a seat often taken for granted. You'll see one and think that it would be nice to pause a moment and enjoy nature, but you don't and walk away. I decided to design this park bench from the perspective of a homeless person. They often utilize the bench as a temporary bed, so why not make something that will bring them a bit of joy to their tough life.
The seat portion of the bench is curved to allow the body to stay in place, and not fall off if they toss and turn. There are also 2 arm rests. One at normal arm height, and one at child's height. People will still be sitting at this bench, so its good to cater to them as well. The smaller rest could serve as a headrest when laying, or something to put a small cushion against. A series of holes would also be drilled into the bench to allow for water to drain/air to cool the underside of a sleeping body. Because the bench has to last through any scenario, it couldn't be made of a soft material.
If somebody else wanted to nap on the bench, but did not get the seating spot, the back is curved so they would rest up against it as well.
The seat portion of the bench is curved to allow the body to stay in place, and not fall off if they toss and turn. There are also 2 arm rests. One at normal arm height, and one at child's height. People will still be sitting at this bench, so its good to cater to them as well. The smaller rest could serve as a headrest when laying, or something to put a small cushion against. A series of holes would also be drilled into the bench to allow for water to drain/air to cool the underside of a sleeping body. Because the bench has to last through any scenario, it couldn't be made of a soft material.
If somebody else wanted to nap on the bench, but did not get the seating spot, the back is curved so they would rest up against it as well.
9.14.2011
Break Time #29
I’m having trouble trying to come up with a new concept for money. It is so ingrained in my mind that thinking of an alternative to that green rectangle in my wallet is next to impossible. The problem does not lie in the shape or design of the bill, but the perception of it’s value.
People stuffed money in their mattress during the great depression. I’ve heard that those people did that long after the depression was over for the simple fact that they valued their money so much, that they couldn’t trust another with it. Today’s credit card society is so dependent on other people to vouch for them, that we are to trusting of the system. I think that responsibility needs to be woven back into the fabric of the bill.
This can be achieved with a smarter plastic card. Here is how that will work. With every swipe of the card, your bank account is accessed and money is transferred. There is always communication between the two. The credit card should have a display on it that allows the user to see the money in their account before and after the transaction. This display would be directly on the card, and have only a head on display so that others could not see the numbers at an angle. Because of that display, it will cause the person to physically see their money be transferred, and their account a little smaller. The same effect can be felt when physical money is leaving the wallet. It hurts to give another money that you worked for. It would make you reconsider that candy bar, or other movie that you saw once and kind of liked.
The display would be on for a small time after the transaction, and to turn it on before a purchase the person would just touch the card. For security they could put a sequence of touches or numbers in to access the display. A new set of interactive devices would be spawned from this new card. People at home could get a small reader for their home computer. When the card is touched to the reader their account balance is updated for their next purchase. This would be vital because of online bill pay. If that was not updated, the person would not have access to an updated balance, and could overdraft. That irresponsible action is what we are trying to avoid.
People stuffed money in their mattress during the great depression. I’ve heard that those people did that long after the depression was over for the simple fact that they valued their money so much, that they couldn’t trust another with it. Today’s credit card society is so dependent on other people to vouch for them, that we are to trusting of the system. I think that responsibility needs to be woven back into the fabric of the bill.
This can be achieved with a smarter plastic card. Here is how that will work. With every swipe of the card, your bank account is accessed and money is transferred. There is always communication between the two. The credit card should have a display on it that allows the user to see the money in their account before and after the transaction. This display would be directly on the card, and have only a head on display so that others could not see the numbers at an angle. Because of that display, it will cause the person to physically see their money be transferred, and their account a little smaller. The same effect can be felt when physical money is leaving the wallet. It hurts to give another money that you worked for. It would make you reconsider that candy bar, or other movie that you saw once and kind of liked.
The display would be on for a small time after the transaction, and to turn it on before a purchase the person would just touch the card. For security they could put a sequence of touches or numbers in to access the display. A new set of interactive devices would be spawned from this new card. People at home could get a small reader for their home computer. When the card is touched to the reader their account balance is updated for their next purchase. This would be vital because of online bill pay. If that was not updated, the person would not have access to an updated balance, and could overdraft. That irresponsible action is what we are trying to avoid.
9.13.2011
Break Time #28
What do woman want? That's the eternal question. What do women want if they had no credit limit on the card?
- Iphone with pink, blinged out case
- A large Coach purse deep enough to carry her
- small “designer” dog
- Lots of clothes for that small dog
- A pair of shoes for every occasion, including “picking out shoes”
- A large house in the mansion district to host parties
- A silver luxury car. Silver/gray goes with just about everything she could wear
- Personal chef so she wouldn’t have to be bothered with cooking
- Recording studio in her house, because money can make you sing better
- A closet full of clothes that could clothe an entire African nation
9.12.2011
Break Time #27
I have been "watching" a lot of Big Bang Theory lately. My eyes are not glued to the screen at work, but it is still a really funny show to listen to. So while I work, I listen. This creative challenge could not have come at a better moment! I had to think of 30 items that would be found in a mad scientist's lab. Instantly I thought of Sheldon having the genius meltdown and what he would have in his lab.
1. Cobwebs
2. Rats
3. Laser
4. Generators
5. Computer
6. Bunsen burner
7. Handheld Death ray
8. Satellite Dishes
9. Body sized tables
10. Beakers and test tubes filled with colorful liquids
11. Poster of Bunsen and Beaker
12. Crazy looking tweasers
13. Lots of leather bound books
14. Spotlights that swing back and forth
15. Creaky staircase
16. Empty energy drink cans
17. Take out cartons
18. Large machines with blinking lights
19. Chalkboards full of calculations
20. Wadded up papers
21. Jars filled with strange creatures
22. Random dinosaur fossil
23. Telescope
24. Dartboard
25. Cot in the corner with messed up sheets
26. Brick walls
27. Picture of lost lover
28. Trap door
29. Creaky deckchair
30. Calender of 1993
1. Cobwebs
2. Rats
3. Laser
4. Generators
5. Computer
6. Bunsen burner
7. Handheld Death ray
8. Satellite Dishes
9. Body sized tables
10. Beakers and test tubes filled with colorful liquids
11. Poster of Bunsen and Beaker
12. Crazy looking tweasers
13. Lots of leather bound books
14. Spotlights that swing back and forth
15. Creaky staircase
16. Empty energy drink cans
17. Take out cartons
18. Large machines with blinking lights
19. Chalkboards full of calculations
20. Wadded up papers
21. Jars filled with strange creatures
22. Random dinosaur fossil
23. Telescope
24. Dartboard
25. Cot in the corner with messed up sheets
26. Brick walls
27. Picture of lost lover
28. Trap door
29. Creaky deckchair
30. Calender of 1993
9.09.2011
Break Time #26
I've been away. I know you've missed me. When there are major trade shows to prep for, and you can't break the barriers of a 2D landscape, creative time suffers. Here is a dose of creativity though! Using only the letters A,B,C,D I had to depict certain events. I chose to illustrate these on individual post it notes.
Here we have a dog, Wagner, barking at the cat outside of the window. It's a fearsome bark, and the cat runs away instantly!
Next is that person typing pretty loudly. My wife says that I type to loudly, but I just say that I put down individual letters with fervor and force.
Here we have my tummy growling at 3 in the afternoon. Good thing I have a snack. I might have to raid the break room fridge and not care who's name is on that string cheese.
A large jet flying over my head. I wish me and Kayla were on it going to Seattle.
This was my last idea. It got crinkled into a ball and thrown away because it would not work.
Here we have a dog, Wagner, barking at the cat outside of the window. It's a fearsome bark, and the cat runs away instantly!
Next is that person typing pretty loudly. My wife says that I type to loudly, but I just say that I put down individual letters with fervor and force.
Here we have my tummy growling at 3 in the afternoon. Good thing I have a snack. I might have to raid the break room fridge and not care who's name is on that string cheese.
A large jet flying over my head. I wish me and Kayla were on it going to Seattle.
This was my last idea. It got crinkled into a ball and thrown away because it would not work.
SAVE THE FILE!
Could there be anything more breathtaking in the world? Few things stir my emotions more than this status bar in Illustrator. I have watched this bar countless time waiting for my file to save. More often than not the file saves perfectly fine, and I continue on my merry way. When a large file comes my way though anxiousness and panic well up inside of me.
I often take this time to sip my coffee, check an email, or stare at the numerous pieces of art on my wall. All in an effort to pass the time and hope that my file saves.
Most times my computer is rendered catatonic, so I am usually staring at the wall. These are the moments that the panic begins to build in me.
The eternal questions rise up in me now. Is there enough memory to process the file? Do I need to close photoshop and email? I sure do have a lot of programs open. When was the last time I used Itunes?
I figure I can still see waves in the status bar then I should be fine. What if it doesn’t save though?
I check in on this bar every few seconds to see if any progress has been made. Two new pixels? Good, it’s working.
Wow that was a big jump, I think I’m going to be all right. Would it really be so bad to start over from the beginning? Sure it would get me closer to lunch, but it just means that I would have to start over. I’m pretty sure I saved the dielines version. I don’t like trying to move the dots again, and the edges of the embedded images ALWAYS get in the way. How did I even click on that? I was nowhere near it. This thing has better save or I’m going to drop kick the file in the face.
This large box I’m working on, like all large boxes, they are very fickle in their nature, and if you disturb the computer too much the box disappears. I sit patiently as the computer renders what I’m guessing is the last few bytes of this 150MB behemoth.
Now comes the moment of truth. There are TWO pixels left Illustrator. If you do not save this box then I am going to uninstall you forever! Do you hear me? You’re not going to like what will happen if you do not save the file! This is the panic talking.
I think if it displayed an “Estimated time remaining” I would go insane. Those things are never accurate, and it always sits on “12 seconds remaining” for three minutes.
How could I better spend my time during these saves? Maybe I could sketch something? Complete a creative task? I’ve tried that, but the computer always seems to sense that I am ignoring it, and saves quicker so that I can be drawn in to the machine again. If you try to purposefully ignore it, then the computer saves slower. Catch 22.
It’s hard for my mind to wrap around the fact that graphic designers were designing without a computer. I was once shown mock-ups for a logo design, and a gradient on a sheet of paper. How? How could I make these things? I know that many older designers prefer to still do everything by hand. This might be a better solution to the eternal save. That work doesn’t have to be rendered in bytes, it can just be stored in a shelf for later. I like the notion of this approach, but I can’t imagine using rub-on letters on a daily basis.
I’m getting ready to give my monitor the “Designer’s glare”. The glare coupled with the phrase that I yell in my mind “COME ON YOU STUPID COMPUTER THERE ARE TWO PIXELS LEFT!”. That stare had to have compelled the computer to save faster. I know it can sense my growing frustration with it’s lack of speed.
IT WORKED! The file saved! The status bar is gone and I can once again continue on my way. Saving the file worked this time, but I know that sometime in the next day or two I’m going to get the dreaded “Illustrator failed and needs to restart. Would you like to send a crash report?” In which case the monitor will still be enduring my “Designer’s glare” and I will have to start over again.
I often take this time to sip my coffee, check an email, or stare at the numerous pieces of art on my wall. All in an effort to pass the time and hope that my file saves.
Most times my computer is rendered catatonic, so I am usually staring at the wall. These are the moments that the panic begins to build in me.
The eternal questions rise up in me now. Is there enough memory to process the file? Do I need to close photoshop and email? I sure do have a lot of programs open. When was the last time I used Itunes?
I figure I can still see waves in the status bar then I should be fine. What if it doesn’t save though?
I check in on this bar every few seconds to see if any progress has been made. Two new pixels? Good, it’s working.
Wow that was a big jump, I think I’m going to be all right. Would it really be so bad to start over from the beginning? Sure it would get me closer to lunch, but it just means that I would have to start over. I’m pretty sure I saved the dielines version. I don’t like trying to move the dots again, and the edges of the embedded images ALWAYS get in the way. How did I even click on that? I was nowhere near it. This thing has better save or I’m going to drop kick the file in the face.
This large box I’m working on, like all large boxes, they are very fickle in their nature, and if you disturb the computer too much the box disappears. I sit patiently as the computer renders what I’m guessing is the last few bytes of this 150MB behemoth.
Now comes the moment of truth. There are TWO pixels left Illustrator. If you do not save this box then I am going to uninstall you forever! Do you hear me? You’re not going to like what will happen if you do not save the file! This is the panic talking.
I think if it displayed an “Estimated time remaining” I would go insane. Those things are never accurate, and it always sits on “12 seconds remaining” for three minutes.
How could I better spend my time during these saves? Maybe I could sketch something? Complete a creative task? I’ve tried that, but the computer always seems to sense that I am ignoring it, and saves quicker so that I can be drawn in to the machine again. If you try to purposefully ignore it, then the computer saves slower. Catch 22.
It’s hard for my mind to wrap around the fact that graphic designers were designing without a computer. I was once shown mock-ups for a logo design, and a gradient on a sheet of paper. How? How could I make these things? I know that many older designers prefer to still do everything by hand. This might be a better solution to the eternal save. That work doesn’t have to be rendered in bytes, it can just be stored in a shelf for later. I like the notion of this approach, but I can’t imagine using rub-on letters on a daily basis.
I’m getting ready to give my monitor the “Designer’s glare”. The glare coupled with the phrase that I yell in my mind “COME ON YOU STUPID COMPUTER THERE ARE TWO PIXELS LEFT!”. That stare had to have compelled the computer to save faster. I know it can sense my growing frustration with it’s lack of speed.
IT WORKED! The file saved! The status bar is gone and I can once again continue on my way. Saving the file worked this time, but I know that sometime in the next day or two I’m going to get the dreaded “Illustrator failed and needs to restart. Would you like to send a crash report?” In which case the monitor will still be enduring my “Designer’s glare” and I will have to start over again.
8.25.2011
Break Time #26
Time sure does fly by when you're working. So to make up for lost time, I am doing a weeks worth of creative challenges. This is not going to be in a particular order, but whenever I find my notes. I hope this does not become a common trend. I am determined to make it through this book! I don't think I can keep up the daily entry though. There is just to much to do, and so little time after work.
Here is one entry: I had to create a game for the office. What is the greatest thing about being a designer? You get to use an Exacto knife all day! It's kind of like being an office hunter except the only thing you get to kill is a mock up! What a better game for releasing mid-day stress than Exacto Flinging!
Also known as "Fling the Blade" this game would be an office version of ax throwing. The rules are simple. The exacto has to be thrown end over end at the FoamBoard target. The target would have rings worth 1-3 points. There would be 2 categories. One with a handle, and the other without. If you are able to stick the blade in the FoamBoard without the handle, you win. That is just crazy that you can do that, so there is no point in trying to compete. (I've tried it, and I'm pretty sure it's can't be done.
Here is another entry: Adjust the rules of your favorite sport to make it faster, or more interesting. Whatever you wanted. I chose baseball. I love the sport, and the tradition of it, but there are a few things that need to change.
1. The batter can't call for time after every pitch. They have to be ready to hit at any second.
2. Add a rock between 2nd & 3rd. This makes players thing when running, and could cause interesting plays for the shortstop.
3.Make each player "play" for a charity. 50% of the salary goes to that charity. Make "playing" the game mean something.
4. Pitchers can manipulate 1 ball per inning using only spit, dirt, or materials found naturally on the field. This would cause amazing pitch action and cause better pitching to a star hitter.
5. After 3 consecutive foul balls on a #-2 count the batter strikes out.
This one is pretty juicy. I had to use 9 triangles and I looked at them from different viewpoints. The viewpoints are listed below the triangle.
This just might be my favorite one of the whole week.
Now, if you know anything about me, I have a history with lawn gnomes. I practically carried one around with me to major events my Sr. year of high school. All in an effort to be "that guy with the gnome." The title suited me, and I was fine with it. This awesome drawing is a re visioning of the lawn gnome. I created a character that looks like he would fit in with modern society. As you can see in the image itself, there are several amenities that the modern lawn gnome must have in order to stand in the grass.
The last task was to come up with 5 things I would want on my head if I didn't have hair.
1. A Bird's nest
2. Velvet hair (shout out to Seinfeld)
3. Small parking cones
4. Boars hair (so I could paint with my head)
5. A hat, which I wear everyday already.
Thus concludes my post. I feel like I am becoming more creative through these posts. I know my sketching has gotten a little better, but that is an added bonus. I wonder what number I'm up to really on these activities?
Here is one entry: I had to create a game for the office. What is the greatest thing about being a designer? You get to use an Exacto knife all day! It's kind of like being an office hunter except the only thing you get to kill is a mock up! What a better game for releasing mid-day stress than Exacto Flinging!
Also known as "Fling the Blade" this game would be an office version of ax throwing. The rules are simple. The exacto has to be thrown end over end at the FoamBoard target. The target would have rings worth 1-3 points. There would be 2 categories. One with a handle, and the other without. If you are able to stick the blade in the FoamBoard without the handle, you win. That is just crazy that you can do that, so there is no point in trying to compete. (I've tried it, and I'm pretty sure it's can't be done.
Here is another entry: Adjust the rules of your favorite sport to make it faster, or more interesting. Whatever you wanted. I chose baseball. I love the sport, and the tradition of it, but there are a few things that need to change.
1. The batter can't call for time after every pitch. They have to be ready to hit at any second.
2. Add a rock between 2nd & 3rd. This makes players thing when running, and could cause interesting plays for the shortstop.
3.Make each player "play" for a charity. 50% of the salary goes to that charity. Make "playing" the game mean something.
4. Pitchers can manipulate 1 ball per inning using only spit, dirt, or materials found naturally on the field. This would cause amazing pitch action and cause better pitching to a star hitter.
5. After 3 consecutive foul balls on a #-2 count the batter strikes out.
This one is pretty juicy. I had to use 9 triangles and I looked at them from different viewpoints. The viewpoints are listed below the triangle.
This just might be my favorite one of the whole week.
Now, if you know anything about me, I have a history with lawn gnomes. I practically carried one around with me to major events my Sr. year of high school. All in an effort to be "that guy with the gnome." The title suited me, and I was fine with it. This awesome drawing is a re visioning of the lawn gnome. I created a character that looks like he would fit in with modern society. As you can see in the image itself, there are several amenities that the modern lawn gnome must have in order to stand in the grass.
The last task was to come up with 5 things I would want on my head if I didn't have hair.
1. A Bird's nest
2. Velvet hair (shout out to Seinfeld)
3. Small parking cones
4. Boars hair (so I could paint with my head)
5. A hat, which I wear everyday already.
Thus concludes my post. I feel like I am becoming more creative through these posts. I know my sketching has gotten a little better, but that is an added bonus. I wonder what number I'm up to really on these activities?
8.23.2011
Break Time #25
So it has been awhile since I posted about my small window of creative time. This is not from a lack of trying, but the fact that I have been busy at work! Remember, I only do the activity if I have time. I'm not ignoring my job for an extended time to do this either. I get 10-15 minutes. I've been working on a lot of mock ups, and today the exacto blade wanted to make friends with my fingers. Needless to say, my fingers did not want a new friend.
I'm also behind on a couple of pages from the book, but I will get to those soon. One or 2 I can't post on here because they are physical activities, so I'll just let you know how they went.
Yesterday, I had to create a brainstorm chart for something that is in my general vicinity. I chose my ViewSonic monitor. The things that came out of my mind about this monitor are mean, angry, and violent. That is due to the fact that my monitor is one of those giant tube monitors. I can understand that it costs a good chunk of change to replace monitors, but there are times where this thing has nearly given me another hernia. Below is the chart. I picked out a word from each branch to write a sentence, and here is what I cam up with: I wish a Velociraptor would come destroy my heavy ViewSonic monitor.
That is my monitor when my computer decided to die one day. It turned out to be something with the power source gave out. It got fixed a few days later, but it was a pretty cool time at work those few days.
Today was a fun, and very challenging activity. I had to come up with an alternative counting source. This meant that I had to reimagine numbers and how to count. I couldn't use Roman numerals either. Sadly, I did not come up with anything during the breaks today. I tried to come up with systems based on 2's or 4's that might be easy to count or identify a single digit. The obstacle was Maybe it will hit me like a flash or inspiration one day and then I can update this post about it.
I'm also behind on a couple of pages from the book, but I will get to those soon. One or 2 I can't post on here because they are physical activities, so I'll just let you know how they went.
Yesterday, I had to create a brainstorm chart for something that is in my general vicinity. I chose my ViewSonic monitor. The things that came out of my mind about this monitor are mean, angry, and violent. That is due to the fact that my monitor is one of those giant tube monitors. I can understand that it costs a good chunk of change to replace monitors, but there are times where this thing has nearly given me another hernia. Below is the chart. I picked out a word from each branch to write a sentence, and here is what I cam up with: I wish a Velociraptor would come destroy my heavy ViewSonic monitor.
That is my monitor when my computer decided to die one day. It turned out to be something with the power source gave out. It got fixed a few days later, but it was a pretty cool time at work those few days.
Today was a fun, and very challenging activity. I had to come up with an alternative counting source. This meant that I had to reimagine numbers and how to count. I couldn't use Roman numerals either. Sadly, I did not come up with anything during the breaks today. I tried to come up with systems based on 2's or 4's that might be easy to count or identify a single digit. The obstacle was Maybe it will hit me like a flash or inspiration one day and then I can update this post about it.
8.10.2011
Introspection on sketching
This is a tough subject for me to write about. I cannot pretend that I’m excellent at sketching or that I should lecture you about it’s importance. I only came to realize that I need to force myself to sketch within the last year or so.
Sketching came to me like a mosquito. It was there, and I tried to ignore it as much as I could, but it finally bit me. I can’t tell you what my high school years in art were like because I didn’t think I would go into art then. I knew that I loved photography, and that I could maybe Photoshop and develop film for a career. Long story short, Harding changed my views on the world of graphic design from Photoshop wizards to people that control communication.
While at Harding, the professors encouraged us to sketch. They would want to see 50 sketches and to me, that was almost an insane amount of time and effort. Who really has time to sketch when you have lunch with friends, class at 2, hanging out, and trying to study until 2 am while your roommate blasts rock and terrible country music? I certainly didn’t, and honestly I think some of my early projects suffered from that. What I didn’t understand about sketching is that it’s not an exercise of completing an idea. It’s about cranking out a quick render so you have an idea on paper that you can visit later. For the last year and a half of school, I did sketch more of my ideas for projects and those help me better my work, but I still did not truly understand what I was doing.
Now, I’m still not saying that after a year removed from school, that I can sketch with the best of them, but I have greatly improved. There have been a couple of projects at work that I have had to create, and I forced myself to sketch before I committed. We have a set style of artwork, and it would have been easy to fall back on that, and recreate another logo, just with a different title. I thought and doodled, and came up with a logo that the boss loves. I’d like to show it off here, but I don’t know about the legality of it yet. Sketching for packaging has been very limited here. Most of the dielines have already been created, and we use rectangles and squares for most of the cards. When I do get the chance to create or change the dielines, I love to get creative. This does not entail creating packaging that can’t be produced because it’s too expensive, but creating pieces that help emphasize the product as all packaging should. Enough about work though.
I’ve had some freelance projects come my way, and have been flying through pages in the sketchbook. Taking the pen and book in my hands has been such a great pleasure this year. Here is the revelation of why I have had such a great time with it. The sketches do not matter. They are not seen by the client, unless purposefully shown, and it does not matter if you can’t draw a person’s face, or the line is not straight. All that matters with sketching is getting the idea out of your head so you can visit it later. Fill up a page with as many variations of something as you can, or move on to the next idea on the same page! It does not matter. Putting ink on the paper is important. I’ve heard that some of the great graphic designers do not sketch very well, or very much. This does not excuse me from not sketching, but it provides me with a bit of relief that if they can sort through ideas in their head, I can develop that skill too. I have also told myself not to scratch through anything. That might be one of the worst things to do to sketches. If it was a thought that you felt needed to be committed to paper, then it deserves a clean spot, and should stay there. It might be the best idea down the road.
I still work primarily on the computer though. I sketch, then translate the raw idea into Illustrator by scanning the idea and then developing it further. There are some documents I have that the whole thing is nothing but variations. I honestly could not accomplish that with a pen and paper. There are far to many effects, colors, and fonts that I cannot duplicate by hand. I wish I could work in the days of handmade comps, but if I did I might not be able to make it as a designer. I could adapt, but who knows. I’m just going to say that I am blessed to be in such a tech heavy time as a designer. It makes my job a lot easier, but I have to remember that I need to go back to the pen and paper to start.
Sketching came to me like a mosquito. It was there, and I tried to ignore it as much as I could, but it finally bit me. I can’t tell you what my high school years in art were like because I didn’t think I would go into art then. I knew that I loved photography, and that I could maybe Photoshop and develop film for a career. Long story short, Harding changed my views on the world of graphic design from Photoshop wizards to people that control communication.
While at Harding, the professors encouraged us to sketch. They would want to see 50 sketches and to me, that was almost an insane amount of time and effort. Who really has time to sketch when you have lunch with friends, class at 2, hanging out, and trying to study until 2 am while your roommate blasts rock and terrible country music? I certainly didn’t, and honestly I think some of my early projects suffered from that. What I didn’t understand about sketching is that it’s not an exercise of completing an idea. It’s about cranking out a quick render so you have an idea on paper that you can visit later. For the last year and a half of school, I did sketch more of my ideas for projects and those help me better my work, but I still did not truly understand what I was doing.
Now, I’m still not saying that after a year removed from school, that I can sketch with the best of them, but I have greatly improved. There have been a couple of projects at work that I have had to create, and I forced myself to sketch before I committed. We have a set style of artwork, and it would have been easy to fall back on that, and recreate another logo, just with a different title. I thought and doodled, and came up with a logo that the boss loves. I’d like to show it off here, but I don’t know about the legality of it yet. Sketching for packaging has been very limited here. Most of the dielines have already been created, and we use rectangles and squares for most of the cards. When I do get the chance to create or change the dielines, I love to get creative. This does not entail creating packaging that can’t be produced because it’s too expensive, but creating pieces that help emphasize the product as all packaging should. Enough about work though.
I’ve had some freelance projects come my way, and have been flying through pages in the sketchbook. Taking the pen and book in my hands has been such a great pleasure this year. Here is the revelation of why I have had such a great time with it. The sketches do not matter. They are not seen by the client, unless purposefully shown, and it does not matter if you can’t draw a person’s face, or the line is not straight. All that matters with sketching is getting the idea out of your head so you can visit it later. Fill up a page with as many variations of something as you can, or move on to the next idea on the same page! It does not matter. Putting ink on the paper is important. I’ve heard that some of the great graphic designers do not sketch very well, or very much. This does not excuse me from not sketching, but it provides me with a bit of relief that if they can sort through ideas in their head, I can develop that skill too. I have also told myself not to scratch through anything. That might be one of the worst things to do to sketches. If it was a thought that you felt needed to be committed to paper, then it deserves a clean spot, and should stay there. It might be the best idea down the road.
I still work primarily on the computer though. I sketch, then translate the raw idea into Illustrator by scanning the idea and then developing it further. There are some documents I have that the whole thing is nothing but variations. I honestly could not accomplish that with a pen and paper. There are far to many effects, colors, and fonts that I cannot duplicate by hand. I wish I could work in the days of handmade comps, but if I did I might not be able to make it as a designer. I could adapt, but who knows. I’m just going to say that I am blessed to be in such a tech heavy time as a designer. It makes my job a lot easier, but I have to remember that I need to go back to the pen and paper to start.
Break Time #24
I had to make a list full of Million Dollar Ideas. I need that Million Dollars so you're not getting anything today.
8.09.2011
Break Time #23
Today, I had to give my friend a piece of paper, have them squiggle on it, and then name a subject. My friend, Mitch, drew the squiggle in the middle of the stump, and said my subject was fishing. So I sharpened my trusty pencil and doodled away. I'm currently living in Louisiana, so hunting and fishing is all around me. So are Swamp people. Thank you Troy from Swamp People for some inspiration in today's doodle.
Break Time #22
The alphabet is all around me! I had to find or create letters in my immediate area. Brian Hodges and Brandon Griswold get some credit for providing me with letters from stuff I have on my wall.
Break Time #21
Have you ever sat down and thought about how you actually perform the most mundane of tasks? I tried thinking about how to put my belt together once, and I couldn't figure it out. To my credit, it was one of those loop through the ring belts, so those can be tricky. Here is how to tie your shoelaces in steps, in case you forgot.
- Take one lace in each hand. Right hand will be Lace 1, and left hand will be Lace 2.
- Bring hands together, and loop lace 1 under lace 2.
- Pulls hands away from each other until the laces feel tight.
- Place right index finger on crisscrossed laces firmly, and stick out right thumb.
- Using left hand, loop lace 1 around right thumb and hold the loop created with pinched left index and thumb.
- Hold loop in place and take finger off crisscross.
- Grasp lace 2 with right hand and cross over the loop on the side closest to the toes.
- In the hole created, push lace through with thumb.
- Release the loop being held to grasp lace 2 coming through with left hand index and thumb.
- Hold the first loop with right hand fingers while you pull the new loop out. DO NOT pull all the way through.
- Make loops even in size.
- Pull the loops away from each other until it feels tight on your foot.
8.04.2011
Break Time #20
Being a packaging designer, today was a pretty fun task. I had to create a container that could allow an egg to survive a 2 story drop.
The concept is pretty simple. Create a container that will slow decent, and protect the egg. I added a bowl to the bottom that would be heavier than the top, so it would not flip. This would have a layer of silicone on the outside as a shock absorber.
The outside of the top container would be covered in TPE (the same stuff gummy Ipod covers are made with). That would be lined with bubble wrap on the inside, as well as filled with water. With the egg being in water, it would be floating at all times and help reduce some of the impact.
The concept is pretty simple. Create a container that will slow decent, and protect the egg. I added a bowl to the bottom that would be heavier than the top, so it would not flip. This would have a layer of silicone on the outside as a shock absorber.
The outside of the top container would be covered in TPE (the same stuff gummy Ipod covers are made with). That would be lined with bubble wrap on the inside, as well as filled with water. With the egg being in water, it would be floating at all times and help reduce some of the impact.
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