Be Kind to Others

In this day and age, technology has literally made this world feel smaller. We can communicate with anyone around the planet instantly. Sometimes this is good and sometimes it is not good. For better or for worse, we are a global community, so be mindful of what you say. 

That brings me to this week's chapter 8 review of Austin Kleon's book, Steal Like and Artist. Kleon covers several topics but they all have one common denominator. He says if we want to make it in this world, stop wasting time making enemies and spend time finding the smartest and the most creative people in the world. When you find them, surround yourself with them. They will be a positive influence, giving you inspiration and the energy to make great things, instead of sucking the marrow. 

In the past year, I've been surrounded by a lot of creative people. These people are my fellow classmates and my teachers. I've been challenged by all of them, just by the fact they are so good at what they do. Their passion for good design makes me want to be as passionate too. I admire everyone of them. 

Kleon goes on to talk about writing fan letters to our heroes. Well, this blog is my public fan letter to all my teachers at Parkland and my fellow classmates. Everyone of you have made me a better designer. I'm always impressed by how good your work is and in turn that makes me want to make good work too. So, Kleon is right. His theory of putting ourselves in positive environments, like Parkland College's graphic design program, works to benefit me as a human and as future designer. 

Here is my list of smart people who have influenced me in one way or another, in no particular order. Some are missing last names. 

• Paul Young
• Liza Wynette
• Brooke Armstrong
• Debra Domal
• Erin Sheahan
• Hannah Wilson
• Jason Dockins
• Jennifer Diesburg
• Lindsey Pagel
• William Young
• Becky Ding
• Michael
• Everybody from Graphic Design II
• Everybody from Illustration I
• Everybody from Typography I
• Everybody from Web Design

I have also joined the Champaign Urbana Design Organization. I've only been to two events but I plan to go to more. I'm also planning to go to more workshops, art shows and anything else that will feed my brain with creative ideas.