Design Theory

Design is a structural outline planned for an intended purpose.

It was hard to narrow it down to one sentence because design is very...solid and structural, but also an invention or plan for someone or something. Design is for an object, education, test, study etc. It can also be decorative or esthetically used. It is hard to define...design, but I see it more as a blueprint. For example, you can design a skirt; which requires materials, pattern and measurements. Or a door which also has materials, instructions and a structure.

This is a work in progress...I will continue working towards a definition of what I believe design is.

Creative Process

My standard creative process usually follows in this order:

• Brainstorm before, during and after initial project briefing, get my brain juices flowing
• Develop first idea on paper and hide under desk not to be discussed until more research
• Find Inspiration, usually this entails a walk down the street and a quick trip to the library for research
• Talk to individuals, friends, peers, family and hear about their stories and lives
• Open the "inspiration box" (Where I keep all my goodies!) and research online
• Compose 10-20 ideas that fit within creative constraints of project
• Refine 5-10 ideas, develop three new ones to new problems that occur
• Showcase five refined and developed ideas to mentors, parents and peers
• Eliminate and determine two best ideas
• Bring out the first idea from under the desk and determine whether it is still the best direction
• Produce finals and see if I am satisfied with my result the next day

When I come across a problem, and that is often as all designers know. I find that usually I can figure it out within a certain time constraint, but when I cannot I take these following steps to move on:

• Run away, literally hide everything I've been working on
• Work on alternate projects
• Listen to music, read, pretend I don't have an impending project due
• Subconsciously problem solve and come up with a creative solution
• Re-introduce the project again as if it was a new briefing
• Get past the inital hump of "designer's block" and jump back into my creative process
 

I used to try to push myself to get through any problem and I often found myself exhausted and not happy with my results. Therefore, I allowed myself to let go of an issue and come back to it. This so far, has been the best solution to moving past problems that occur within the creative process. I can let my thoughts and mind breathe freely allowing for it to naturally determine the best solution.

Introduction

I am a graphic design student currently enrolled at Humber College.
My goal is to obtain my Advanced Diploma in 2012.

Born and raised in Toronto the city life has been my entire scenery since I can remember. I am passionate about design, problem solving, arts & entertainment, botany, biology, classical and modern music, reading and video games.

Currently I am employed at the National Post as an intern working in the Graphic Department with Richard Johnson. I look forward to the experiences and skills I will obtain through this internship and attending Humber College.

With this blog I hope to discover and share interesting news.