Hosted at Villains in collaboration with Southbank, our global happy hour series felt right at home. It was the ideal venue and vibe for authentic networking in the Windy City. Everyone enjoyed meeting fellow members and sampling the snacks and signature Old Fashioneds. Thanks to WNW Member Alex Garcia for taking professional portraits for attendants' WNW profiles and portfolio sites.
Read MoreLaShun Tines Spotlights The Art of Blackness
There's a growing movement for inclusive policies in a wide range of fields. But Art and Design, while typically more progressive, are not where they need to be as industries. And Advertising is lagging even further behind. It's what initially lead WNW Member and AIGA Chicago Diversity Lead LaShun Tines to start The Art of Blackness exhibition in Chicago five years ago. And it's still one of the few, if not the only, national group art shows dedicated to furthering the presence of African Americans in the fields of art, design, and advertising. One of its key goals is highlighting potential heroes for younger creatives. "Familiarity and exposure to our heroes in the art and design space is an unspoken issue affecting African American artists. As a result, the aspirations of our artists can be limited. We try to introduce our audience to African American trail-blazers to serve as inspiration and as an example that the possibilities for African American artists and designers are endless."
Read MorePROFILES OF THE WEEK: AUGUST 15TH
PROFILES OF THE WEEK:
AUGUST 15TH
Alison Bracegirdle, Copywriter. London.
Neri Esparza, Front-End Developer. New York.
Erik Johnson, Designer. Encinitas.
Buddy Bojorquez, Designer. Los Angeles.
Audrey Desler, Designer. Portland.
Daniel Spooner, Copywriter. Los Angeles.
Nate Pence, Editor. Chicago.
Shirley Huong, UX/IA Designer. New York.
Are you a WNW Member with new work, exhibits, products, or news to share? Email us!
THE STYLE-BENDING WORK & CURIOUS MIND OF CHICAGO'S POUYA AHMADI
THE STYLE-BENDING WORK & CURIOUS MIND OF CHICAGO'S
POUYA AHMADI
"I think curiosity is the most powerful sense that can drive anyone towards any assumed goal. It can lead to many new discoveries." As a designer equipped with an untethered curiosity, WNW Member #12259 Pouya Ahmadi is always in discovery mode. Just take a look at the selection of his writings on his portfolio site. He's also well-equipped to offer great advice on the importance of an inquisitive mind, which we're sure keeps his students engaged at The University of Illinois at Chicago. In our interview below, Pouya surveys the creative landscape in Chicago and how it influences his design, and walks us through some of his most inspiring and challenging projects. He even addresses his biggest career failures, adding "Usually when I look at them in isolation, they seem to be big failures. However, in the grand scheme of things they seem unusually like appropriate moves toward some kind of larger goal."
Tell us about your creative background. Who is Pouya and how did he get here?
I’m a Chicago-based graphic designer, typographer, and educator. I am currently running my personal practice where I focus on brand identity, typography, and type design projects for a variety of businesses. I am also an assistant professor of graphic design at The University of Illinois at Chicago where I focus on teaching typography, type and poster design in both graduate and under-graduate levels. Prior to moving to Chicago, I studied Visual Communication and Image Research at the Basel School of Design in Switzerland where I had the opportunity to learn about Swiss typography more in-depth both in its historical context (what is known as International Style), as well as its current position in today’s design world. Before then, I studied Graphic Design at the University of Tehran.
I never start any project before forming an opinion about it... If I find myself in a position where I can’t contribute to the discourse, I usually remove myself from the project. But aside from that, to me, each project is an opportunity to reflect on design as a discipline and a form of communication.
How would you describe your creative style? Do you recognize a signature style that links all of your projects, or do you try to excuse yourself and approach each project as its own entity?
Formally speaking—you can easily trace influences from Swiss typography in my work. Conceptually speaking—I believe it could be the way I reflect on each project. My design process usually starts with a period of time spent on conceptualizing or thinking about the subject matter and understanding my position in relation to its core concept. I never start any project before forming an opinion about it. And that is basically what I mean by “reflecting on the project itself.” If I find myself in a position where I can’t contribute to the discourse, I usually remove myself from the project. But aside from that, to me, each project is an opportunity to reflect on design as a discipline and a form of communication. I do my best to take advantage of the opportunity to do so.
Experimental Film Society posters
What drew you to this subject?
I’ve been always interested in cinema and was looking for an opportunity to collaborate with filmmakers or organizations dedicated to cinema to work on their promotional material, identity, etc. EFS was one of those rare opportunities that I was always looking for. I had absolute freedom to design the identity and promotional materials and I believe that was why the project was well-received in both film and design communities.
What inspirations helped inform this project?
Mainly the films themselves were the source of inspiration. The majority of the films are directed following the Remodernist Film Manifesto. The manifesto itself was also one of the biggest sources of inspirations for the posters.
Hardest part?
Translating the idea of each film to tangible visual ideas that could form a poster was the most challenging part. And of course thinking of each poster as an individual film but also part of a series didn’t make the process any easier.
Starts/Speculations exhibition catalog
What drew you to this subject?
The Starts/Speculations exhibition catalog was designed for the Chicago Design Museum's first exhibition in their permanent location. I think both the topic (100 years of design in Chicago) and the freedom I was given to design the catalog yielded the successful result. I also think the challenge of designing a piece for a design event was another factor that drew me to the project.
What inspirations helped inform this project?
The exhibited work were a great source of inspiration for the catalog as well as the layout of the exhibition. Every element in the catalog refers to either of those two.
Hardest part?
The time pressure imposed a big challenge. We had less than a week to design the entire thing. Considering the fast pace of the project, our initial idea worked. And that was a huge relief since we didn’t have much time to test any of our ideas. We could only trust our intuition.
ERC Quantum Typeface specimen/poster
What drew you to this subject?
I designed this custom typeface (ERC Quantum) for the University of Chicago. The fact that the university was interested in having a custom typeface made the project very exciting. Of course the freedom that I was given in terms of designing the entire character set had an enormous impact on the outcome.
What inspirations helped inform this project?
The typeface was originally designed for the William Eckhardt Research Center. The scientific activities that took place in the center were the main source of inspiration for the geometric monospace typeface that I designed for them.
Hardest part?
Designing a typeface is not an easy job. To make an entire character set that is perfectly balanced and working is perhaps the most difficult part about designing any typeface.
The “Writings” section of your portfolio showcases both your extensive knowledge of design, as well as your untethered curiosity in further explorations and discoveries. Does this process of establishing a dialogue with the work of others help inform your work in specific ways?
It does. In fact, I don’t see my writings as separate from my design work. For me, it is another form of thinking or reflecting on design.
I think curiosity is the most powerful sense that can drive anyone towards any assumed goal. It can lead to many new discoveries.
As a professor at the University of Illinois, teaching must keep you learning as well. Any tips or advice shared with your students that you can also offer to fellow creatives? Any tips to help fellow creatives jump-start a similar curiosity in their craft?
I think what you just mentioned is what I always found the most useful advice: to always be curious. I think curiosity is the most powerful sense that can drive anyone towards any assumed goal. It can lead to many new discoveries.
What moment or project in your career so far has made you the proudest?
The Experimental Film Society identity and poster series is one of my favorite personal projects. It’s been one of my longest collaboration throughout my career so far and the one that gave me the most freedom.
Usually when I look at [my career failures] in isolation, they seem to be big failures. However, in the grand scheme of things they seem unusually like appropriate moves toward some kind of larger goal.
Biggest career failure?
There’s been many. Usually when I look at them in isolation, they seem to be big failures. However, in the grand scheme of things they seem unusually like appropriate moves toward some kind of larger goal.
What are you working on now?
I’m currently working on an identity and a series of posters for an art/installation exhibition. I am also working on designing a book and a typeface for a young poet based in North Carolina. Aside from that I am working on my talk that I will give at TypeCon in August, and of course, preparing for school on the side.
How does Chicago influence your work?
To me, Chicago has the most interesting architectural scene in the US. But historically speaking, I think Chicago Fire has had an enormous impact on me as a designer.
What’s the creative scene in Chicago like? What cultural and creative venues do you frequent?
Chicago has a relatively small design community which is really appealing to me. It’s competitive but it’s also very collaborative. I usually go to see the shows at the Art Institute of Chicago, MCA Chicago, and Cultural Center. I just moved to a new neighborhood in Chicago which allows me to visit some of my favorite live music venues like The Empty Bottle and Subterranean more often. I do also frequent Reckless Records to find some old Jazz records.
Do you thrive off of being part of a creative community or are you more in your element as a lone wolf?
The latter is probably more true about me. I do enjoy being part of the community but I usually am by myself or you can find me in a small circle of people.
Who are some of your biggest creative idols and influences?
There are many, but to name one, and perhaps the most influential one, I would say David Lynch.
I think the loose boundaries between the creative fields these days have allowed creatives to explore different types of media simultaneously, and to be able to pick and choose the one they feel most confident using for their needs.
If you weren’t a Designer, what do you think you’d be doing instead?
Probably a filmmaker or a writer. But then again I do make films and write as a designer anyway. I think the loose boundaries between the creative fields these days have allowed creatives to explore different types of media simultaneously, and to be able to pick and choose the one they feel most confident using for their needs. That’s a big advantage due to democratization of creative tools and technological advancements. However, it is easy to get lost in the sea of all of these capabilities available to us.
What do you do when Not Working?
There’s not a clear boundary between my work and the other activities I do throughout the day, or at least I don’t see them as separate activities.
What are some things you would tell your high school or early twenties self?
I would tell myself to stop caring too much about solving math problems.
Any album, film, television or book recommendations for your fellow WNW members?
Recently I’ve been listening to this Toronto-based Jazz band called BadBadNotGood and found their work quite interesting. I’m always on the lookout for good/inspiring Jazz music and when I come across a good band I usually try to listen them for a while. Aside from that, I do really enjoy this new experimental electronic project by Matmos called “Ultimate Care II”. I think it’s both conceptually and formally a masterpiece of our time.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Thanks to you and your colleagues for your handwork to make this platform a great place for creative people.
Are you a WNW Member with new work, exhibits, products, or news to share? Email us!
PROFILES OF THE WEEK: MARCH 7TH
PROFILES OF THE WEEK: MARCH 7TH
Franck Blaess, Director. Austin.
Nancy McCabe, Designer. Chicago.
Jacob Kaempf, Art Director. Portland.
Natalie Lam, Art Director. NYC.
James Heredia, Motion Designer. Portland.
Willyum Beck, Art Director. Portland.
Cori Donohoe, Copywriter. Chicago.
Nancy Ward, Producer. Santa Monica.
Are you a WNW Member with new work, exhibits, products, or news to share? Email us!
Illustration by WNW Member #2045 Nathan Hinz
The Only Thing You Have to Fear is the Freelance Fear Itself
After years of saying you’d do it, you finally did. You went freelance. You’ve been working at your first gig for a few months now and it seems pretty amazing. You love everything about freelance. If you work extra hours, you get paid more. What a novel concept!
Read More
MEET #597 LUCY HEWETT
MEET #597: LUCY HEWETT
Photographer • Chicago, IL
In honor of tonight's Drinking Not Drinking Chi-town edition, we're featuring WNW Member #597 Lucy Hewett! Lucy's collaborated with top brands that include Kia, Popular Mechanics, Bon Appetit, Billboard, Monocle, Money Magazine, Ziploc, Entrepreneur, and Cards Against Humanity.
A freelancer since 2011, Lucy has a grounded approach to staying organized and remaining balanced. She advocates for a well-rounded schedule of side projects, hobbies, and lots of travel. When asked if her parents understand what she does for a living, Lucy's response particularly resonated: "It’s not as obvious to them that networking, marketing and road trips 'just to make personal work' are part of a real, adult job."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
As a Capricorn, I feel like I’ve been freelancing since birth. There’s always been side projects, one-offs, and jobs on top of the day job that have gotten me by-- financially and spiritually. I officially left full-time corporate life in 2011, while I worked to build relationships with photography clients. The last several years I’ve been able to focus solely on photography and currently work out of a studio space in West Town.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
It’s cliche but I find traveling to be an important source of inspiration. Exploring a new city is a visual treat and meeting new people is a great source of energy for me. It allows me to break away from my routine and be present with new experiences.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
Ideally I would be able to shoot a week-long job and then have another week in the studio to take care of other business tasks. It rarely (never) happens that way. Luckily living in Chicago, January and February are often quieter. It gives me a chance to catch my breath, travel, and explore creatively, so I’m refreshed and ready to hustle again come spring.
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Ha! Sort of. They love being able to pick up a magazine and find a photo I shot, but I think they’re confused about how I spend the rest of my time (when I’m not shooting). It’s not as obvious to them that networking, marketing and road trips “just to make personal work” are part of a real, adult job.
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
Kristen Wiig drunk on the airplane in Bridesmaids. Kills me. Everytime.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
I would send smoke signals through Instagram, and pass the rest of my time re-watching Parks and Rec on Netflix and making playlists on Rdio.
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Usually thinking about my next snack or which new restaurant to try. I tutor at the neighborhood elementary school every week and try to get to a yoga class whenever possible. I love to cook, and I’m trying to step up my baking (almost perfected my peanut butter chocolate chip cookie game). Now that it’s porch weather it’s pretty much potlucks and picnics on the weekend.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
I’m really good at pulling off a chambray shirt and black jeans every day of the week, 90’s pop sing-alongs, and finishing the entire French press.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Freelancing is not fun-employment. You still have to show up every day and work really, really hard. Sometimes that includes working long hours. Make it fun by seeking out people you admire and collaborating with them.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?
Hillary 2016!
11. Anything else you'd like to add that we haven't asked?
People say it all the time, but it’s so important to make time for personal work. If you’re not showing people projects that you love and are really proud of, you’re not going to get hired for that kind of work.
12. Any WNW members whose work you admire?
Veronica Corzo-Duchardt, Rob Loukotka, Daniel Seung Lee, Joel Barhamand, Ike Edeani.
Are you a WNW Member with new work, exhibits, products, or news to share? Email us.
MEET #486 MIKEY BURTON
MEET #486 MIKEY BURTON
Designer • Chicago, Illinois
WNW Member #486 Mikey Burton is a part-time designer, part-time illustrator, and full-time freelancer. Mikey has worked for a range of clients that include Converse, ESPN, Target, The New York Times, Time Magazine, and Esquire, among others. He is also an ADC Young Gun. Mikey offered some priceless advice to his fellow freelancers: "Please start wearing pants, you’re making us all look bad."
1. How long have you been freelancing?
This will be my 5th year as a full-time freelancer.
2. Is there a time or place that you feel most creative/have the best ideas?
Morning is when I do all my problem solving. The first hours before lunch are always my most productive time. The rest of the day I’m just mindlessly moving pixels around.
3. What's your ideal Working:Not Working ratio?
Let’s base it on my actual work week. I work Monday through Friday, no work on Saturday and usually a half day Sunday. 5.5 to 1.5
4. Do your parents understand what you do?
Finally! Ever since I started doing editorial illustration, it has been very easy to open up a magazine and say "look, I drew this"
5. What scene from a movie makes you laugh just thinking about it?
I was really racking my brain for something obscure and cool for this, but honestly all I can think about is that part in Billy Madison when he dances to Culture Club for no reason.
6. If you were stranded on a desert island, with your computer, what 3 websites would you take with you?
Instagram (does that count as a website?), tumblr and Netflix
7. What do you do when Not Working?
Unwindulax… or errands.
8. Do you have a hidden talent?
If I do, it's hidden to me.
9. Any tips or advice for fellow freelancers?
Please start wearing pants, you’re making us all look bad.
10. What's your favorite thing on the internet this week?