Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Infirm

I haven't gotten much done this week because of an illness that has kept me from leaving my dorm, so I haven't taken any exciting photos to share. 

I did just read this informative article for class which deals with the application of design principles across multiple fields in a practical way which seems much more accessible and realistic than the usual discussions on the subject. The most important and shocking lesson I have learned about grad school is that the purpose of what we do is not to design things ("artifacts" is the word used over and over), but to effect circumstances. Earning a bachelors, and even working, is all about becoming a professional, developing creative skills, and producing pieces. At this level, all of that is understood to have been accomplished and none of it is even discussed; the new goal is to use those tools to deliver unique solutions for any problem in any realm of society. To be a walking solution. This is so far removed from anything I was expecting that I truly have to redefine what it means to be a designer in my own mind. It is not a continuation of my existing education, but the beginning of a new one.

Also, I've started another blog that will be devoted entirely to my graduate thesis work. That link will arrive as soon as I finish the title graphic. Your nervous anticipation of its unveiling is palpable even from here.

Also, this



1 comment:

  1. it's really interesting that you say that. it's so easy to get caught up in problems that are strictly 2D.

    shifting the focus more toward "design" and away from "graphic" is very scary for me. i think edward de bono would be proud of you.

    and i hope you feel better.

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