How have I changed?
Modernist - Post Modernist
My approach to design has changed, previously I had approached work in a modernist manner, creating work as minimal and efficient as possible; it is most probably a rebellion against this that has made me work in an opposite manner.
I no longer want to produce work that could have fitted in the modernist movement, I want to create progressive work that pushes the boundaries of communication and rejects the preconceived ideas of 'good' design. I have swapped the Sans for the Serif, although I appreciate both have an appropriate time to use, I do prefer the aesthetic and progressiveness of serif typefaces.
My criticisms of Modernisms have grown, an emotionless, opaque manner to design is machine like, it is my refusal of becoming a 'mac monkey' that coincides with this. How can a designer enjoy their life creating work to set principles, adding no personality or expression into their own work seems like a crime.
Work Ethic
My work ethic has increased greatly, I cannot put this down to an influence I have become aware of, I believe it to be the development of my own motivation that has done so. My work day has doubled, days off are few and far between however I have never been calmer in the run up to deadlines.
My work has developed greatly, I am doing work I am somewhat proud of while tripling the amount of work I was producing last year. My time at the College has become much more enjoyable and it isn't a rarity for me to be the last in the studio. Outside of the studio, I work part time 2/3 a weeks, It could be this mental break each week that has helped me focus, and most probably motivated me; as I don't want to spend the rest of my life doing room service.
Approach to Design / Immersion
Alongside this work ethic increase has been my immersion within design, it is rare for me to do anything not design related, such as searching blogs, visiting exhibitions and galleries, talking about something creative in any sense. I don't know if this is necessarily a good thing as I know there is more to life than Graphic Design, but why stop If I am enjoying myself, or atleast, under the illusion that I am.
My ever growing publication collection is growing incredibly fast and definitely hurting the bank account but it is a field I am focusing on entering so it is a necessary vice.
My field of design has become more defined too, focusing on editorial, photography and direction, the type of work I produce has helped me enjoy my practice even more. These 3 fields are where my focus is going to sit from now, I do look forward to it!
Future ambitions realised
I now have a more defined direction I wish to follow career wise; editorial related in the Arts, Culture and Fashion Industry to begin with, broadening to art / creative direction of a whole publishing platform at a pinnacle.
My route into Industry has become defined alongside this, Interning within magazines within the Arts, Culture and Fashion industry initially would be ideal however any experience is beneficial.
From this interning, I intend to grow somewhat of a contact list that can aid in acquiring a full time position post graduation.
From a full time position, I wish to either grow within the team or find a higher position elsewhere until I reach my pinnacle of Creative Director.
This is does sound incredibly easy and possible when written however I realise that neither of the three may occur and I could be struggling to get anything. It is my motivation I am to rely on to push myself to complete these steps in chronological order.
Why have I changed?
This is a question I am yet to answer, perhaps it's my maturity as a designer, the ever looming thought of full time work or a series of fortunate events.
What ever the reason, I am happy it has occurred, as I intend to always stand by my motto of 'Never be satisfied' I know there is a lot of improvement I need to discover.
No one will ever reach their true potential but always improving upon your previous self is never a negative. Developing and sustaining a high taste level x motivation will always leave you in the best stead to accomplish my ideals, goals and accomplishments.
Do I see myself changing again?
Change is inevitable and I do see myself changing my practice, be this becoming more focused in a particular area or into another field such as Music design, I have no problem with this change as I know it will be a conscious design and as always, if I don't enjoy it, I'll find a route out of that situation.
It has been incredibly beneficial evaluating my practice, it came incredibly handy in my meeting with Dazed and Confused and I plan on using it again with other internships. I have identified where I have come from, where I am now and where I intend to go, this is a weight off my mind and has created a less intimidating future.
