Skills & Making.
Task 8:
This week's challenge centers around a personal exploration of skills and development. We are asked to identify the gaps between our strengths and weaknesses and how to approach acquiring new skills. We have to create a list of our current skills and a separate list of the skills we wish to achieve by constructing a 'process model' summarising the skills we currently have and the gaps we want to fill. Examples of work include a diagram, 3D statement, statement, model, or tool. I aim to approach this project with hope, perseverance, and integrity. I want this project to be something other than a checkmark on my to-do list. I want this to be a way of life where I constantly change and fill in the blanks. I always say, "I want to learn something new," and never do. I plan to learn 1 or 2 new things after this project.
For this project, I will design an educational tool focusing on an area of knowledge I wish to develop. I have so many skills that I need to improve, but improving a skill takes practice, and what I need to stay motivated and excited as a designer is developing a new skill set and using it within my designs. Thus, I will focus my skillset on one part: Languages. I will divide the languages into two parts: First, the languages I acquire and know (Arabic and English). Second, the Languages I want to learn and understand (ASL sign language for the deaf and Braille tactile code for the blind). I have always wanted to know these two languages because I felt unjust to myself and those beautiful, diverse people. I view myself as a person with a disability because I do not understand their language. If everyone in the world could learn their language and communicate with them, they could live a perfectly normal life, not separate from everyone else. They do not have a disability; we do.
Learning objectives:
Analyse and reflect upon my personal subject skills and ways of working.
Imagine, create and communicate a designed personal process model.
Document and communicate my working process in my blog.
Participate in and reflect upon debate on the ideas wall.
Manage my independent learning through good planning and self-direction.
Discover:
current skills I acquire
Languages I already acquire
skills I want to acquire
Languages I want to acquire
Define:
mood board GIF:
Pinterest is my one and only source of inspiration. It’s a digital gold mine that fuels my creativity. Whenever I start a new project, whether it is designing a book or a new typeface, Pinterest is my go-to for visual inspiration. With so many images and content to choose from, I can easily browse through different styles, themes and colour schemes to better understand what I want to achieve with my project.
Throughout the defining process, I focused my research on the ASL sign language (deaf lang.) and the Braille code (blind lang.). I found many design projects specifically created to make it easier for people to learn these unique languages. Therefore, I was inspired to develop my own learning platform to gain a new field of expertise and acquire knowledge that would assist me in comprehending the various communities in the world.
My decks of cards:
Ever since I was a child, I have been captivated by the world of playing cards. From the various sizes and shapes to the enchanting illustrations, I found myself mesmerized by every aspect of these wondrous pieces. What particularly fascinated me was the intricate details, the choice of paper material, and the unique texture each deck possessed. I have always held a deep admiration for the craftsmanship that goes into creating these cards. Eager to explore a new skill that would allow me to combine my passion for playing cards with a creative project, I ventured on a journey to design and produce my own deck of cards.
Idea generation + Initial sketching:
There will be 2 decks of cards: "Learn it, then Quiz it."
Learn it! : teaches me a new area of knowledge I want to develop
Quiz it! : improves my understanding of the new skill I am acquiring
The first part is "Learn it!": It will demonstrate the Braille alphabet using an embossed feature with an alphabet line drawing, and in ASL language, it'll show the hand gesture that is used to say each letter.
The second part is "Quiz it!": It will have a blank space where I can test my memory and fill in the gaps, and the paper I will be using is erasable so that I can practice and practice and practice.
Develop:
change in plan
Despite having a well-thought-out plan for my project, I encountered several obstacles that prevented me from executing it as I originally intended. Firstly, time limitations restricted my ability to fully commit to my initial idea. Also, I found myself facing the artist's block, struggling to generate the creativity needed to bring the concept to life. To make matters worse, I fell ill, leaving me physically and mentally drained. Thus, I realized I needed to adjust to my current situation, so I streamlined my design and went for a more basic approach. This helped me manage my schedule better, and I could still create something important despite the obstacles I faced.
Final Sketches:
Process videos:
Failed design attempts:
“learn it, then quiz it!” front & back designs
Example 1:
Example 2:
Teaching “myself” worksheets:
26 alphabet cards in 3 different languages
Deliver:
Learn it
Quiz it
Case Studies:
Question 1:
What would you like to be doing that you are not doing in your work?
Question 2:
How important are side projects, and are you currently working on any?
Simon Manchipp:
Question 1: What would you like to be doing that you are not doing in your work?
I get bored very quickly. I like to try new and different things occasionally, but I constantly change and change. I can't believe Simon Manchipp worked in the same place for over 20 years. What I found very interesting about him was how he described doing something you are not doing can change your mindset, the way you think, and how you adapt to the environment. He talks about variety, and that's something I strive for. The more eclectic things are, the more motivating and exciting it becomes. He says that "No one seems ever to leave SomeOne, and they come in, and they're working on so many different projects that before they know it, they look around, and they've been here 10 ten years, which is true," that's the kind of mindset and place I believe I would fit it, various.
Question 2: How important are side projects, and are you currently working on any?
"A journey of discovering things outside of just being a service", Simon is fascinating. I share his values and interests. I also share his opinion that side projects are exciting but stressful, especially when you already have a full-time job. Side jobs have both a positive and negative impact on me. They allow me to explore my creativity on my own terms but also increase my stress level. However, what I find interesting about SomeOne is that they enable people to do whatever they want and make their own products as a part of the job. It's like having your own side job with your full-time job, which is very interesting and valuable.
Kristoffer Soelling & Tom Finn:
Question 1: What would you like to be doing that you are not doing in your work?
Kristoffer Soelling answered the question: "There isn’t really anything we’d like to be doing, as in most of the things we’d like to be doing, we are doing." I didn't understand what he meant here, but I believe that when working, the best motivation is to have something you wish you were doing but aren't. This makes one always strive to become better and want more. If I do everything I want, then I won't feel accomplished. For me, the feeling of always wanting more pushes me to do more.
Question 2: How important are side projects, and are you currently working on any?
Kristoffer Soelling and Tom Finn are interested in authorship and the concept of side projects. Although they haven’t created anything entirely their own yet, they believe it’s essential for their studio to “have its own identity outside of visuals”. I agree with them that side projects are a way to “define their identity completely” and fulfil their desire for “authorship”. I love doing side projects because they show my true self; however, I create each side project motivated by something I’ve seen, heard, or touched. However, finding the time to do these projects can be challenging due to other responsibilities and income-generating tasks.
Sarah Boris:
Question 1: What would you like to be doing that you are not doing in your work?
Among the answers, Sarah Boris answered the question with ease. “I want to do more interior design projects. I want to work on rugs, tableware, and more. I also want to work with product designers.” Sarah tends to get carried away with her side hustles and turn them into an endless list of things to do. However, she emphasizes the importance of these projects in defining who she is as a designer and how they help her stand out from the crowd. By working on side projects within her field, Sarah Boris wants to redefine herself and provide unique perspectives that set her apart from the crowd. Sarah Boris is my inspiration and motivation in this graphic design era.
Question 2: How important are side projects, and are you currently working on any?
Side projects have always played an essential role in Sarah's career. Side projects are integral to her practice because they define who she is as a designer. Many designers excel in logo design, visual identity, book design, and website design, but side projects provide a unique opportunity to show off Sarah's unique personality from start to finish without any compromise or client interference. Every designer needs a break to discover who they are without clients. That's why side projects have expressed Sara's creative desires, driven by pure vision. She views side projects as an asset that enhances her personal portfolio, making her stand out from other agencies or designers, and that will be my new vision of side projects too.
Contextual Research:
Brian Eno's Oblique Strategies :
Brian Eno's Oblique Strategies deck of cards is designed to spark creativity and overcome blocks. It provides thought-provoking prompts and encourages a different perspective. I wish I had known about these cards sooner, as they would've helped me explore new directions and enhance my creative processes within my projects. Reading through some of Eno's cards, I encountered many terms I needed to familiarize myself with as he used complex vocabulary that required a dictionary. These cards encourage experimentation and problem-solving by prompting individuals to think outside the box. They also foster adaptability and flexibility in the creative process. Every designer experiencing any form of blockage would improve their creative thinking, break through barriers, and produce innovative work by using Oblique Strategies.
The Importance of Vulnerability:
I agree entirely with what the video communicates. Vulnerability isn't a sign of weakness, and it's just a part of growing and connecting. The video discusses how challenging misconceptions and vulnerability are essential to build resilience, connection and authenticity. It's about being brave and accepting the emotional risks that come with it. Vulnerability helps us become more self-aware, empathetic and compassionate, which helps us build stronger relationships and personal growth. All in all, vulnerability is a powerful force we should all embrace.
Keep Going:
The School of Life's "Keep Going" video is an excellent resource for me. I've faced many obstacles in my life, and I've learned a lot from them. I know how important it is to stay positive and keep moving forward, but sometimes it's hard to keep an upbeat attitude. The video's theme of reframing failure as a learning opportunity speaks to me because failure can be a great opportunity for growth. I've also learned a lot from the video about seeking out support. Connecting with others and asking for help when times get tough is fundamental.
Reflection:
This project indeed served as an eye-opener for me. I am proud to say that I dedicated my all and gave it my very best. As a result, I am extremely satisfied with the outcome and the progress I have made. Throughout the journey, I encountered several challenges that tested my determination and patience. There were moments when I felt overwhelmed and considered giving up; however, I chose to remain focused and resilient. Instead of caving to the difficulties, I actively sought out solutions and adjusted my plan accordingly. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability. Learning Braille and American Sign Language (ASL) has been an incredibly rewarding experience. While I am still a beginner in both languages, I am excited to continue improving and becoming more proficient. The ability to communicate with unique individuals through these beautiful languages is something I'm eagerly looking forward to.
All in all, this project changed my life. Not only did it help me develop my linguistic skills, but it also inspired me to be more inclusive and to be more communicative. I am thankful for my struggles, strengthening my character and decision-making. I look forward to the future, where I will continue learning and interacting with the world using the amazing Braille and ASL languages.
References:
TAKAHASH, Kosuke. 2021. ‘Braille Neue’. typegoodness [online]. Available at: https://typegoodness.com/2018/04/braille-neue/ [accessed 27 Jul 2023].
TAKELESSONS. 2023. ‘Sign Language for Beginners: 10 Basic ASL Phrases & Words’. Sign Language for Beginners: 10 Basic ASL Phrases & Words [online]. Available at: https://takelessons.com/blog/asl-for-beginners [accessed 27 Jul 2023].
