Sunday, July 22, 2007

New Position. Maybe?

Wikipedia defines a Designer as "a broad term for a person who designs any of a variety of things. That usually implies the task of creating or of being creative in a particular area of expertise. It is frequently used to reference someone who draws or in some ways uses visual cues to organize their work. Designers are usually responsible for making a model that takes into consideration each step in a product's development, including not only how a product will be used but also how it will be made."
I studied Illustration in hopes to one day become an Illustrator, which Wikipedia defines as "a graphic artist who specializes in enhancing writing by providing a visual representation that corresponds to the content of the associated text. The illustration may be intended to clarify complicated concepts or objects that are difficult to describe textually, or the illustration may be intended for entertainment."
Although it often feels like I'm not an Illustrator because I'm not currently illustrating for a living, I am published. At times I have to remind myself that that is a huge accomplishment. I know it's not my best work, but it is out there and people are buying it. So, I have to be proud. I'm an Illustrator.
When I don't utilize my creative side, I become very frustrated. I didn't actually realize it until I started working behind a desk. I've recently resorted to the art of decorating my cube with stickers. There is a sticker on my computer from my "I heart the Office" sticker set that says "I heart Spreadsheets". One on my name plate that says "I heart my Cube".
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If I didn't entertain myself, I'd probably lose my mind. In the beginning I found ways to sketch everyday - the building across the street, the people in the park on my lunch break, sites from the bus window, the vice president sitting across the conference table from me in a meeting (he kept that one and hung it in his office). I haven't found time to do that as often as I have taken on more responsibility in the office, working lunches, and heavy power naps during the commute. I fear I may lose my impulsive artistic side to whip out my Moleskine and sketch freely, so I must do something about this.
Coincidentally, a position became available in my office and I was recommended for it. It becomes available in September and I'm going to apply tomorrow. It would be a great opportunity for me to utilize my degree and keep my creative juices flowing. I'm quite excited about it, but I don't want to get my hopes up. Disappointment and I don't get along well. So, keep your fingers crossed for me. Wouldn't "Designer" look great after my name?

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