There’s a saying that one should always be a student of life. Of course that’s one of the main reasons our members come back year after year: to learn from the top-notch speakers that invade Tulsa each season.

But for those of our members that actually are still students, school is starting up soon. So to get you inspired for the fall semester, we’ve gathered advice from some of the best designers out there.

“Learn to write, write well and write a lot. I don’t know a single accomplished graphic designer who doesn’t write.”

“[design takes] deep interest and commitment beyond expected requirements, plus intelligence, imagination and tenacity.”

— Marian Bantjes

 

“Most of the mediocre design today comes from designers who are faithfully doing as they were taught in school: they worship at the altar of the visual.”

— Michael Beirut, on learning to cater to your audience (and not to yourself)

 

“Never fall in love with an idea. They’re whores: if the one you’re with isn’t doing the job, there’s always, always, always another.”  

— Chip Kidd, The Cheese Monkeys

 

“Read a lot. Have interest in as many things as possible. Check out product design. Go out a lot. Look at art. Get influenced by things outside of the annuals.”

— Stefan Sagmeister

 

Our advice? One of the best ways to stay inspired is to hear from inspiring speakers. That’s what we’re here for. So take advantage of our student membership prices while you still can. And at our next meeting, don’t be afraid to mix and mingle! ADCT is a great resource for networking and we’d love to meet you.

Experienced members, what advice would you share with budding designers?