It’s amazing how fast 6 months can pass in what seemed like days, I guess that is what life is all about. Since things have been so non-stop, which I am more than thankful for, I thought I would do a semi-quick recap of what I’ve been up to and what I have planned.

It seems crazy, but my years at Chapman University are now behind me. These past four years have been an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything. Here I learned what design and a career in graphic design really meant, solidified my constant pursuit of knowledge, and came to realize just how much we are capable of on a deadline.

Real life didn’t really wait for an official graduation date, but that’s why it’s called “real” life. I have and will continue to devote my energies to Prehistoric Inc. through the planning and execution of strategies focused on effective problem solving in management and design. The majority of my time is spent in a leadership role which is a great exercise of creative problem solving, but I have still been able to implement a couple campaigns with the opportunity for design that included the companies’ first summer camp, business cards for its’ international suppliers, vehicle graphics and special event promotions.

After graduating from Chapman, I quickly learned that although my time at Chapman was over my time as a student was not. This led me to promptly enroll myself in a graphic design class through Art Center at Night. I have thoroughly enjoyed driving up to Pasadena (yes, this seems crazy, but the city is beautiful at night) and immersing myself in the Art Center design process.  

Work and classes have kept my rather occupied in these months, but I’ve managed to squeeze a little design related fun in to my schedule through AIGA events.

I’ve had the opportunity to receive insight and guidance through a mentorship with Creative Services Manager at Pacific Communications Keith Smith, who has been gracious enough to take time out of his busy schedule offer bits of wisdom about the trade.

After missing last year’s LA Printer’s Fair at the International Printing Museum I knew I had to make it out this time. After seeing so many quality printers dedicated to the art of printmaking, I have no fear of printing becoming obsolete in the digital age.

Now insane as it sounds I had never actually visited LACMA so I jumped at the chance to visit free during Pacific Standard Time. The museum was great as expected, but the standout exhibits were California Design and Five Car Stud by Kienholz both part of the special exhibits of Pacific Standard Time. Five Car Stud was so jarring I could only experience it for a short time, but the message poignant. On the lighter side California design was all I could have hoped for as a fan of California Modern architecture, design, and fashion. California natives can only be inspired by the great work cultivated by the uniquely climate from visionaries such as Eames and Bass.

Recently I had the opportunity to AIGA design fellow and LA based designer Petrula Vrontikis speak at Cal State Fullerton, which was inspiring and entertaining, much like Petrula herself.

I guess that pretty much sums up all things design in the past couple months. Looking forward to what the next months bring!