article "Living with doubt"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/12/living-with-doubt.html

This is more about the idea that you can make more money by taking a risk than staying in the safe zone, which I guess is true in a lot of cases. The fear of failing is what often draws people back from going for a risk. I think with this, there is always a balance that has to be worked out. For one, what about taking a risk with the lottery or start up company? But then again, if your gut tells you to go for it, should you do it? Do the possibilities of opportunity outweigh the possibility of failure? Now that our first semester has come to a drawing close, these are questions that have begun to form, and I think for designers, our profession in itself is a bit of a risk. And when taking a risk, it's probably better to take it to the end rather than only take it halfway, right?

article "Chanel = a female power symbol?"

I've been writing a research paper on the Chanel logo, and I've come up with some interesting ideas. For one, the circle shapes in the logo can represent women, yin and yang, crescent moons, and a mandorla (or vulva/almond). All meanings combined together form some sort of idea that the symbol is indicative of the emperor goddess taking over the world, which is what Coco Chanel kind of did - revolutionize women for her time. I wonder if women feel this way when they wear Chanel - females with power or females that fallen under the influence of current trends.

article "Seasons of fashion"

Everyone's a little a runway crazy when it's fashion week. What surprises me is how quickly and powerfully fashion pushes seasonal change. For one, it's plainly freezing outside but all the stores have just been stocked with resort wear - bikinis, sandals, and the like - making me want to invest in some needless swimwear. Fashion is such an interesting expression of design, and designs move on so fast from one trend to the next, it seems impossible to keep up. But that's the fun of it, right?

article "Bicycle Design"

http://www.core77.com/gallery/bespoke-the-handbuilt-bicycle-2010/

Bikes are a good example of functional design. I've been shopping around for a bicycle for the last two years, and I'm still looking - mostly because there is so much to choose from, I can't really settle on one particular design. Collapsible bikes, folding bikes, bikes with baskets, bikes with holsters - where can I go from here?

article "Scott Pilgrim"

http://www.slashfilm.com/66-high-resolution-photos-from-scott-pilgrim-vs-the-world/

I recently saw Scott Pilgrim vs. The World because my friend was raving about it constantly, sparking my curiosity. At first I was not expecting much, but I was surprised by the use of graphic elements throughout the movie. I'm not a huge fan of digital design, but this actually made me want to learn more about the possibilities digitally enhanced design. The use of typographical effects combined with a graphic-novel feel bolstered by digital components was amazing - something I'd like to work on.

article "NYC Sneakers Pimps tour"

http://www.sneakerpimps.net/details.php?photoID=32&photoGallery=nyc07

This is a little insane. Sneaker design coming into its own life form! It's always interesting to see people cultivating similar interests, and a sneaker-obsessed crowd did not disappoint. I like seeing how design encompasses so many different levels and how it affects people in different ways. Definitely admirable.

article "Reasons to work"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/11/reasons-to-work.html

How important is it to be successful? Or it is enough to just get by, doing what you like? If I just moved to Switzerland, decided to live on a farm, and spent my days keeping busy with nature does that mean I've given up or that I'm enlightened to the realities of what actually matters in the world? These questions have been really getting to me nowadays. I've always felt driven to do my very best at "what I do", and now I'm just confused that I've created this idea and this "career thing" may just be something we've made from thin air, but stress so much importance on - if that makes any sense at all. My friend implies that we are driven by societal pressure and we've all become robots and clones of our own selves. At first I ignored the point, chalking it up to negativity but now I'm beginning to wonder if he's on to something.

article "Your noise is still noise"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/11/your-noise-is-still-noise.html

I was walking around Times Square the other day and was of course, hit with a montage of ad noise. But while others find it obnoxious, I actually love it. I go to Times Square to see what ads might have changed, what new billboards might have been put up, if there are any other insane digital ad ideas that they've come up with... There was actually this giant screen up on in the center of Times Square on the MTV building taking a live shot of all the people walking through, and we could see ourselves in miniature. Thousands of people stopped to wave to see if they could see their tiny hands waving emphatically on screen. I think this was an ad for the clothing store, FOREVER21, though I don't really see any sort of relation. But still, a fun idea! The question still remains though, if we are a part of if all, or even the ones creating it, is it noise? Or is it only noise if it belongs to someone else?

article "Guest speaker"

I enjoyed Liad's lecture, especially when he gave examples that he thought were successful marketing design pieces. Design in relation to identity is so integral, I'm glad that he was able to delve in deeper within that subject and discuss the importance of functional design.

I also appreciated his criticism of my own product and brand, and have reviewed his comments in my head repeatedly since then. Being that he was the first to respond in saying that he was having difficulty relating the product to my brand, I was wondering whether if my branding tactics has miscommunicated the message I was attempting to convey. Should I rethink the entire image of my brand? Rebrand my entire product? Or should I work on clarifying the mood I am attempting to show throughout my piece?

article "Product design vs. purchase power"

I was in need of peanut butter the other day and decided to stop into my local grocery store. Yes, it's one of those yuppie organic health food stores with whole wheat, 100% organic products. In choosing my product I took my time looking carefully over the labels, design of the jars, use of color, etc. I ended up with a cool jar with illustrations of monkeys on the label. I was romanced by good design so much so that I forgot about the actual product. I found out a little bit ago that my peanut butter is flavored with cinnamon and raisins. Interesting..

article "CONE-o-MATIC branding idea"

My thoughts on CONE - o - MATIC branding developed quickly. I think after developing the logo I was able to conceptualize the mood I hoped to create. Being that my product is for the efficient, face-paced, on-the-go consumer, I want my branding to exude youth, excitement, and perhaps trendiness. I would like the overall feeling to be fun, maybe even silly, but ultimately prove it's practicality being that it is a product that may serve a multitude of different uses for different situations.

article "Groping for a marketing solution: TSA and security theater"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/11/groping-for-a-marketing-solution-tsa-and-security-theater.html

This is becoming an increasingly big deal. I first came across the TSA issue when taking a flight out of Vancouver. They had one of the first installments of the full body scanner and gave people a choice - either do the full body scan in the cylindrical contrapment or get a full body pat down. I opted for the pat down - just because the scanner looked a little freaky. This makes me think that a better marketing tactic might be the way to go if it comes to the point where full body scans be necessary for everyone. A smarter marketing idea will most likely lead way to a smoother transition and better acceptance for change.

CONE - O - MATIC Style Frame

On any given day, Richard finds himself in need of some alone time, at least for a minute or two.
In which case, CONE - o - MATIC is here to the rescue!


SCENE I: On the subway

 ...annoyed

 happy!

SCENE II: At the park

 ...annoyed

 happy!

SCENE III: Getting a phone call

...annoyed

 happy!

SCENE IV: Waiting for a friend

 ...annoyed

 happy!

Thank goodness for CONE - o - MATIC, the way to catch the perfect break on-the-go!

article "Klhip nail clippers: redesigning the mundane"

http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/klhip_nail_clippers_redesigning_the_mundane_17840.asp

These nail clippers are nothing like I've ever seen before. What impresses me most of all is that there has been an idea to redesign something that we take for granted, yet use all the time. I think we forget to appreciate the design of the everyday and "mundane". Why not make our everyday tools more efficient and useful while also improving its design? This paves the path for a world ruled by designers, a new phenom that I'm finding to be increasingly evident in my day to day life. 

article "Why we prefer live"

 http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/11/why-we-prefer-live.html

What is the appeal of live music? I agree that it probably has to do with the new atmosphere, possibilities of a whole new experience, and the newfound energy supplemented by those around you. Maybe if we attributed these sensations and ideas to our daily life, we might feel more fulfilled and as exhilarated as we might when seeing a live performance. But then most of us do try to avoid surprise and change in our work life for fear of failure or difficulty. In our work lives we want everything to flow as simply and successfully as possible. Does this hinder us from greater ideas, or keep us safe?

article "Crunchy"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/11/crunchy.html

So many people today lead their lives according to their jobs. I can understand why this happens - what you do consumes most of your day to day life and thoughts, afterall. But are we becoming fooled into being "crunchy" about things that we might not have even given thought to before? Why are people being "crunchy" environmentally in the first place, anyway? Are they being vegans to save animals, to lose weight, or to go with the current health trend?

updated CONE - o - MATIC tutorial : stop motion

http://blip.tv/file/get/Skimpratt-RichardGoesToTheParkByCONEOMATIC801.mov

article "Motion Design"

It is an interesting to consider how design is viewed in motion. The 3D elements that come into play along with the interacting of moving items proves for a dynamic visual. I have always felt a bit apprehensive about motion graphics and animation simply because I do not have the ability to understand the inner workings in their entirety. There seem to be so many elements that are running together simultaneously it proves to be confusing and intimidating. But seeing how technology is progressing lends me to believe that all I can do for the moment is make the effort to catch up. Our current assignment, stop motion, is one that has garnered much interest for me, personality. It seems like a mix of motion and print, which I find to be a nice medium to start with.

article "Do more vs. do better"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/11/do-more-vs-do-better.html

This is an interesting idea to me especially being that I had just had a conversation with a friend that people often confuse quantity with quality. We all understand in our subconscious that yet, more is not always better, but then again, we are so frequently led to think that it is. More time with one another seems better than quality time. More food seems better than quality food. We forget that the bigger picture and greater success comes inevitably with the quality of experiences and processes - an idea that I would like to remind myself to return to.

article "NY Art Book Fair"

http://www.ps1.org/exhibitions/view/324

 I went to the NY Art Book Fair on Friday and felt entranced by all the different ideas for books that designers were able to conjure up. There were books purely of photographs of a designer's travels, a book with paper made of thinly sliced fruits and vegetables, a book with pages that consisted of empty bags of soil portraying the support for Prop 19, and other insane creations. The ways that people choose to express themselves is amazing, and I was left feeling a burst of inspiration and creativity. I think that these fairs and conventions work as a great way to meet people, as well as gather ideas and insight - another way to network.

CONE - O - MATIC Tutorial - Stop Motion

http://blip.tv/file/get/Skimpratt-RichardGoesToTheParkByCONEOMATIC718.mov

CONE - O - MATIC Bullet Points

1. The Color/Texture of the mood board evokes...a feeling of vibrancy, being current/relevant to today's society's needs and desires, modern/fresh/cutting edge technology

2. The Soundscape evokes...a feeling of calm and serenity that you might feel once in the cone, then a transition to modern and fun as you can quickly fold up your on-the-go cone and be on your way in a flash

3. CONE - O - MATIC is a place for a moment of serenity...where you can "get your me time"

4. Fellow networkers of my site have taught me that rather than a workspace for virtual computers, CONE - O - MATIC works as a workspace to be used on-the-go anytime, anywhere

article "Marketing Halloween"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/10/marketing-halloween.html


Seth makes a good point here about holidays functioning as a marketing ploy. But isn't just about everything a marketing ploy? When do we stop being suspicious and just simply enjoy? Or does that mean we have just been duped under the spell of evil advertisers? But I do agree that no matter how much you market something, there is no way to force something to become a universally accepted event or tradition - it has to already be something that communities have been wanting. The next person to create a holiday as marketable as halloween is a genius.

article "1 Hour Design Challenge: Play-Doh Kicks"

http://www.core77.com/blog/featured_items/announcing_the_winners_1_hour_design_challenge_play-doh_kicks__17576.asp

Remember Play-Doh? I think something that really comes back to me about Play-Doh is the smell - very reminiscent of my childhood! This is an event I would have loved to participate in. There's something about a timed challenge that produces great/crazy products. Working under time constraints really helps create something unusual - maybe we think differently under pressure. That would be an interesting study.

article "Monster post: Crap I've Built - Banquettes (poor man's couches)"

http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/monster_post_crap_ive_built_-_banquettes_poor_mans_couches_17752.asp

I love the way this designer embraced his creative process - using leftover materials to create pieces that are for everyday use. He also opted to keep aesthetic needs in the corner while concentrating on function as his priority. This is a great idea to live by, especially as for designers, materials tend to be so costly and problematic. Why not just work with what you have? The process of the means to an end with only the materials you are given is a challenge and a way to get creative. Great design is methodical as well as beautiful, which is something I can really appreciate.

CONE - O - MATIC Data Compilation - Updated

 

CONE - O - MATIC Data Compilation

article "Change and its constituents (there are two, and both are a problem)"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/10/change-and-its-constituents-there-are-two-and-both-are-a-problem.html


Most people are adverse to change, and I can understand it. There is that fear of the unknown, possibility of failure/inconvenience, and what not. However, when change happens for the better, it's hard to take in. These things are issues, but I'm not sure what can happen to incur a change in beliefs and behavior. Perhaps the best way to present a big change is to do it in increments. Even in design, something too radical is difficult to prove as successful, but little steps to great change lends greater chance for acceptance. But maybe that is a cowardly means of going about it?

article "New Bike Rack"

These bike racks are soon to be taking over NYC, one street at a time. The design is simple, effective, and a great use of space, and of course, attractive! Anyone see these around, yet? These new designs are a hopeful means of encouraging more people to take active transportation, but I'm not sure how successful it will be in under those terms.

article "Cool new way to light up the streets"

This is a great design idea I saw at the Design Triennial. The little leaf fixture attached to the top of the tree soaks up sunlight during the day, then reuses that solar energy to light up at night. Supposedly these lights are already being used in Seoul, Korea. It would be cool to see them in New York! Apparently it is stressful for trees to be wrapped in twinkle lights, so this would be a neat alternative. Not to mention a great replacement for all the streetlights out there.

article "Time to get off the bandwagon"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/10/time-to-get-off-the-brandwagon.html


I definitely agree that the unique ideas are the more successful ones. Of course in today's society, every idea is "borrowed" and "manipulated", and it becomes a question of how unique can ideas get? But still, following suit with the majority will most likely lead to no real result, as it's already been seen and done, rendering it moot. With marketing, especially, the newest ideas are the ones the seem to catch the most attention, which then calls for action.

article "Getting smart about the hierarchy of smart"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/10/getting-smart-about-the-hierarchy-of-smart.html


This is good to know when getting into the workforce. There is always a hierarchy to follow, and it becomes important to know where you and everyone else stand. I do think that there is a different way to talk to every coworker based on their skill set and level, and this is something to be very aware of. Office politics is something that can't be avoided, and when it can't be avoided, it is better to join in on the mix.

article "You're famous"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/10/youre-famous.html

A lot of valid points on the life of celebrity is brought up here. So many people today are obsessed with what it means to be a celebrity, imitate a celebrity, and meet a celebrity. I suppose it makes sense they the become romanced with the illusion of celeb-dom and hope some of it will rub on themselves should they somehow follow suit. I do agree with the point that celebrities are created and defined by a person's social life and social rank. There is a worldwide fame and there is a local fame. It's weird how fame relates to a person's self worth that way.

article "Ubiquitous distribution is overrated"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/10/ubiquitous-distribution-is-overrated.html


I was buying jewelry off a street vendor yesterday (I am a big supporter of struggling design talents out there) and had quite a intense discussion with the designer about ubiquitous distribution today. What is it about scarcity that makes something so appealing? Even in relationships, "hard-to-get" is a game to live by. Chanel has upped their prices (what is it, 20-30%) without any change to the quality of the product, only saying that they wish to keep their product more exclusive, not unlike Hermes. Chanel seems to be concerned that their product has become too ubiquitous, in turn, lowering it's market value. But why exactly is something so much more valuable when its harder to possess, and why do we want something more when it's out of our reach? Is it about the feeling of gratification when we are finally able to achieve/possess whatever is it that we have been pining away for - the more difficult the process the greater the reward?  

article "Demonstrating strength"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/10/demonstrating-strength.html

These are all valid points to live by, but also things that we often overlook and avoid. I think we all want to take the short cut, and generally make our lives as easy to live by as possible. However there are benefits to taking the long route, and we're humbled by it. Seeking help, relying on others, and being generous are things we all should live by, especially as designers, where the help of your peers will take you so much farther than you alone. This is what I feel concerned about right now, especially, now that I am back in school. Usually I feel more comfortable keeping to myself, but making more of an attempt to relate and connect with my peers, I realize that being open to help each other often does lead to a better end product, and make the process more enjoyable.

article "Generous gifts vs. free samples"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/10/generous-gifts-vs-free-samples.html


I love that this is being brought to attention, because I am a total sucker for free gifts, bonuses, and samples. If it's but 2 get 1 free, or buy this get that, more often then not, I am tricked to believe that this is one great deal. I think that this is something that benefits me - a gift for me with no strings attached - rather than a clever marketing scheme. I do like that it is mentioned that gift giving with no form of exchange or compensation is powerful - this is something that should be explored further in terms of sales and market.

brand platform soundtrack

http://blip.tv/file/get/Skimpratt-brandPlatformSoundtrack585.wav

article "Five rules for your About page"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/09/five-rules-for-your-about-page.html


These are some useful points. I have always been a bit lazy about my "about" page and coming up with descriptor words about myself. But it is true that when looking up other people, the first place I investigate is their "about"/"info" pages to see how they describe themselves. A personal tact is probably the best way to go, as suggested. Comments and testimonials are a good idea - another area that I have been neglecting. I am curious to see what a difference a well-sculpted "about" page will make...

article "Needs don't always lead to demand"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/09/needs-dont-always-lead-to-demand.html

This makes sense. No one wants to be told what they need. As people's demands often overlook their needs, assuming a person's needs will most likely lead to dismissal. A better designer will investigate what people need and want, then create a product based on these demands. But is it better to try to merge the needs and wants, or should we push consumers even further into their demands, leaving them to neglect their most primary needs? Is this unethical, or a logical marketing scheme?

article "Getting better at seeing"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/09/getting-better-at-seeing.html


What you see in front of you is a major motivator in decision-making, and appearances do matter. I definitely agree that small companies and individual markets do trap themselves in unsightly design. Great design does not have to be expensive, and may just call for absolute simplicity. However, too many fall into the pitfalls of dizzying, unattractive, and thus ineffective design - repelling consumers rather than luring them. This shows me just how important designers are to the world of consumerism, and how our work has the power to effect and change a person's entire decision-making process.

article "Future Senses"

http://www.pantopicon.be/blog/2009/09/08/future-senses/


So if in the future we have the capability of enhancing our senses, what does this mean - we all have Spidey-senses and can decide to fight crime? This idea is a little worrisome. What about the people that cannot afford to have their senses enhanced? Yet another way to further our ever increasing societal divide. On the flip side, however, the ideas do sound impossibly fascinating - electric sensors, light sensitive cells, and incredible sound detection. The range of possibilities that this opens up is endless. But as exciting as this all is, I do have a fear of how fast we are advancing..

article "Dissatisfaction guaranteed"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/


Brands being built on dissatisfaction - this is a concept that has never entered my mind before. Why do I have to many lipsticks and makeup products? When making the purchases, I obviously think to buy a new lipstick because I am looking for variety. But why do I need variety? Because I want something new and different? Or because I am dissatisfied with the one I have? Either way, the option of having a variety of the same line of products is a genius marketing scheme in itself. Having a collection or something is an appealing idea - a collection of nail polishes, a collection of Swatches, a collection of shoes...  There is something to buying the same line of products that you may not need, but I don't know if dissatisfaction is the underlying idea here.

article "The problem with putting it all on the line..."

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/09/the-problem-with-putting-it-all-on-the-line.html


This is an idea that applies to all artists and designers - the concept of taking the risk to reap the rewards. The problem is that it's difficult to approach art without some element of risk-taking, but perhaps that is why the end results, when positive, are so much more rewarding. Working as a creative, there is always room for mistakes and failure. So many of my peers have chosen to follow a safer path in their careers, one that promises a regular salary, regular hours, and a regular lifestyle. Sometimes I wonder if maybe I have too rashly decided to take the plunge, but I suppose that is something I will have to see for myself.

brand platform animation

http://blip.tv/file/get/Skimpratt-brandColor976.mov

brand platform colors

article "KOKO by Cadbury"

http://www.futurebrand.com/work/featured-cases/koko/


There are so many different types of packaging and brand identities for chocolate - I'm not sure if KOKO presents anything new. It is definitely a new vision for the Cadbury brand, and it fulfills its purpose for being a more feminine chocolate, but I am unsure whether this is the freshest idea for a new line. The packaging for the individual chocolate pieces is elegant and sophisticated, but I feel there is an element of creativity that is missing. But perhaps that is the purpose, and the product is packaged to appeal to a wider audience, in which case, the design may be headed in the right direction, after all.

article "Dominic Wilcox's 30 Objects in 30 Days"

http://www.core77.com/blog/object_culture/dominic_wilcoxs_30_objects_in_30_days__17423.asp

Often times I find myself in a bit of design rut that I can't get out of. This is a great way to get inspired - just simply creating whatever comes to mind. Thinking it over as a design process, it makes sense to me. Maybe all us designers should follow suit, go off all the ideas that have been spinning around in our heads, and we'll each come up with something brilliant - like a Bread Light - and have fun in the process!

article "drone phone home"

http://www.pantopicon.be/blog/2010/02/17/drone-phone-home/

Great. Another means of invasion of privacy, and via iPhone to boot. What can't iPhones do? These things kind of remind me of Transformers - flying mini robots, maybe? There definitely is a whole range of possibilities here, but I'm not sure how excited I am to see them. Always with further developments, further problems are created, and not to focus on negativity, but I can sense a lot of issues on the rise. With (infrared) cameras and mics, a "drone" poses as the perfect tool for all the creepy stalkers out there.

brand platform

In the future we will have virtual keyboards and contact lenses that project a visual feed directly onto our retinas. And so, humans will have to learn to exist and be productive in a virtual world.

http://www.technologyreview.com/blog/mimssbits/25623/

article "Designer of 2015 trends"

http://www.aiga.org/content.cfm/designer-of-2015-trends

It has definitely become evident that today's designer lives in a world scarce of attention. With so much design noise and distraction, it has become increasingly difficult to create a stir and grab attention to one's design. I do believe that with this, design has become more about successful problem solving than design for the sake of design.

article "Don't forget about color"

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2010/08/dont-forget-about-color.html

I definitely agree that with color, "a little goes a long way." We seem to take it for granted that taxis are yellow and green means go. There are many situations in which usage of color would lead the way for an immense change for the better - higher efficiency, greater productivity, and etc. It's interesting to see what great impact little design decisions can make.

article "New Jobs In The Economic Recovery? Try Communications"

http://www.businessweek.com/innovate/NussbaumOnDesign/archives/2010/04/new_jobs_in_the_economic_recovery_try_communications.html

I do agree with the idea that where there is a bust in the job market, there is eventually a boom, and that the boom will be in communications seems natural. As the net serves as a platform that is a day to day advancement within itself, what I am curious to know is how many jobs and how many fields in relation to those jobs will eventually be opened up in the future.

article "Jeff Jarvis And Parsons' Students Agree on iPad--It's For Consuming Media, Not Creating It."

http://www.businessweek.com/innovate/NussbaumOnDesign/archives/2010/04/jeff_jarvis_and_parsons_students_agree_on_ipad--its_for_consuming_media_not_creating_it.html


What does it mean when the latest gadget promotes only consumption, not creation? I have also considered purchasing the iPad but, as Parsons students have previously commented, there is no room to "remix and make," thus rendering it an object useless in terms of productivity.