Pinche Arnold » The Art Institute of Phoenix Beat the Heat Workshops

Big “Thank you!” for the invitation to speak to prospective students at the Beat the Heat Workshop last week. I had a great time and was really happy to see all those young people interested in design. I was a bit nervous but I have to thank everyone, including the students, for making me feel welcome. As promised (and only a week late!) here are some key points from my talk plus some links I thought I’d share to help you all on your way.

KEY POINTS:

1. Keep your portfolio in the back of your head, always be on the lookout for a great portfolio piece.

2. Color theory, perspective, etc. (non-core design classes) are very important.

3. Learn the rules (even you creative geniuses) so you know when to break them.

4. Carry a sketchbook for life.

5. Embrace the diversity an art school will provide.

6. Be fearless, yes it’s a competitive field. (Cut half the competition by striving to be the best)

7. Fall in love with visual communication.

8. Try to tell a story in everything you do.

9. Everything you broadcast on the internet will follow you forever.

10. Advice I’ve taken to heart:
– Present your future self.
(You aren’t a know-nothing art school graduate, you are a desperately needed wealth of fresh perspectives and design)
– New title: User Experience Designer

11. Have thick skin. Your creations will be edited, changed, re-worked, re-hashed, rejected and sometimes laughed at.

12. Diversify your job search – there are usually more avenues to offer our skills than we realize.

13. Make the world a prettier place.

…..and now for the links:

Design online:

http://k10k.net/
http://surfstation.com/
http://designiskinky.com/
http://www.booooooom.com/
http://ffffound.com/
http://motionographer.com/
http://www.cpluv.com/
http://www.qbn.com/
http://www.yayhooray.com
http://www.lifeclever.com/