Catch-Up #8

Journal #8

Design Observer

“Type Means Never Having to Say You're Sorry” is an article about how the font Futura is overused and abused. The font, probably most famous from use with Wes Anderson, is everywhere. While I can’t necessarily identify too many fonts by quick glance, this is one I can now. I’m not entirely sure why everyone insists on using it either; It’s not an ugly font, it’s pretty simple and has a decent size family for multiple purpose use, but there’s nothing overly spectacular about it. Personally, when I find myself using too much of it, I switch to Gill Sans, although I know another popular alternative is Frutiger.

Ten Graphic Design Paradoxes-

The article has several interesting points, some I agree with, others I don’t.

1. There’s no such thing as bad clients: only bad designers. Yes and no. There are some real assholes out there. That’s all I’m really saying.

2. The best way to learn how to become a better graphic designer is to become a client. I can definitely see the point in this. It’s like taking a walk in someone else’s shoes. Although I do this more through looking at other people’s work and not really making other people do design work that I could do myself.

3. If we want to educate our clients about design, we must first educate ourselves about our clients. Regardless of who is educating who, if you’re working with someone, it’s always good to inform yourself first. I do this a lot before interviews so I know the ground I’m walking into.

4. If we want to make money as a graphic designer, we must concentrate on work – not the money. I think this is a good rule for any profession. You’re getting money from work, so do your work.

5. For designers, verbal skills are as important as visual skills. I can get onboard with this idea. Non-designers, especially people paying for design, are always curious about what the product is about.

6. Ideas usually fail not because they’re bad ideas, but because they’re badly presented. Meh. Even with bad presentation, I can usually see a good idea from a bad one. Although I turn out wrong sometimes, so I guess I’m on the fence with this one.

7. “I’m a professional: I know best.” – Not. I agree for the most part. Designers do work FOR OTHERS. If the others want something, we can guide them, but in the end, they’re going to want what they want. Jeremy Shellhorn once told me that one thing he enjoys about design is that even with not so great material, you can always problem-solve and create great design.

8. “All the good jobs go to other designers.” – Not. Man, just be happy with what you’re given. Mmmkay?

9. The best way to run a studio is to be domineering and forceful. Not true. Agreed. No one likes working with jerks.

10.If we believe in nothing, we shouldn’t wonder why no one believes in us. I love it. So much.