My experience with graphic design is limited to oohing, ahhing, and the occasional “holy [expletive deleted], that’s good!”
Understanding the science behind the art has never been my forte, but has always been a topic I’ve been fascinated with.
So, instead of just continuing to stare at great work with a glazed look of appreciation, I sat down with award-winning senior art director Brian Rees and asked him to share his perspective from the other side of the InDesign document. And being a nice guy, he complied:
1. How has design changed during your time in the industry?
Technology now enables a designer to do things unheard of just two decades ago.
2. Where do you look for inspiration for your design work?
Television, advertising and environmental inspirations.
3. What is one thing design should always do?
Make you think? (and be pretty, of course)
4. What is the biggest mistake you’ve made (or see other people make?)
Going with the first layout that comes out of you…
5. Creativity and deadlines aren’t always friends (let’s call them frenemies), how do you solve the problem of being creative on-demand?
For me, it actually helps knowing a deadline is impending. Sometimes it enhances creativity.
6. Are there any websites you check for inspiration or advice?
Getty and photography in general can spawn wonderfully fresh ideas.
7. If you could give one piece of advice to a recent college grad about to enter your field, what would it be?
Stay young at heart and never close your mind to new ideas.
8. Who do you think is doing impressive work right now?
Have to say Glenn Pierce always amazes me with his work. But he knows that…
9. Do you have any golden rules of design?
Yes, it should come naturally.
10. How do you create inspiring design if content is … dry?
Humor always helps.
11. What famous (or not so famous) designer inspires you and why?
Clothing designers, because they are masters of form & fluidity.
12. Know any good quotes about art direction that you think are worth publishing?
“Art gives voice to that which has not been spoken.”
—Unknown
13. If you were asked to make album art, what musician/group would you choose?
The Rippingtons, a contemporary jazz ensemble.
14. What question did you expect me to ask that I didn’t ask? Would you mind asking it and answering it yourself?
What makes you smile? Answer: the sun.
15. What work are you most proud of and why?
My ability to work with just about anyone.
16. What are some trends you see developing that will impact the future of design?
As technology cross-pollinates with the growing wall of innovation coming from the Web, the two worlds will continue to blur together.
17. What are some trends you wish would die today?
The arrogance of top creatives.
18. What is one thing you wish every editor knew about design that could save you time, headaches, and frustration?
Not every editor should be a designer.
19. Do you buy into the notion that the rise of tablets will change everything about design?
No, just another path for creative solutions.
