9 Surf Studios: 10/2/11

October 5, 2011

While doing a search, I came across this image which I did for US News & World Report in 2000 at the height of the tech economy. The article reported on the changes and challenges due to rapidly changing technologies. Ironic that it was done just before the tech market crash considering that we are in dangerous economic times again.

Evolution

More than ever, I find the nature of my work evolving as my clients' needs change. I am always calling on my art director past to solve increasingly nuanced visual problems that don't fit into categories or styles. I've always resisted the term 'illustration' for my work, though in the strictest sense, it is. A more appropriate term is 'image design' since I call on may varied and nontraditional means to create a visual solution. You'll see what I mean in the variety of concepts and executions as you view my posts. Feel free to comment - I'd love to hear from you!

CONSULTING & INSTRUCTION

I offer consulting and customized instruction to individuals, groups, institutions, agencies, studios, and corporations. Plans and courses would be tailored to your specific needs including but not limited to these topics:

• Strategies for developing great design and imagery

• You can create anything with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop

• Design theory and goals

• Design is an integral part of business strategy

• Using color

• The key role of designer as part of a team

• Be a good listener & observer therefore be a good designer

• From concept to final artwork

• The importance of working well with others

• Incorporating design and illustration into the workflow

• Designer as illustrator, illustrator as designer

• Even though the budget is restricted, your creativity is not

I'll be happy to answer any inquiries you may have about consulting and instruction

In Progress

Things continue to be very busy. Here's some of what's happening:

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Working on a variety of typographic and illustrated magazine covers.

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Developing a comprehensive new project involving fine art originals and reproductions. It's just the beginning. Stay tuned! In the meantime, check out http://www.9surfeditions.com

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Working on a number of photographic installations with my wife Lois. Together we form tolo. Lois is a very talented designer and photographer and the combined work is very exciting.

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Continued collaborations with Fin Brand Positioning, a lean and mean branding and marketing firm.

October 5, 2011

Hands off! Or on?

The economy then and now