When I was a young designer back in the day, I was surrounded by talented, inspiring people. I designed under people who allowed me the opportunity to grow and explore my graphic design talent. Early on in my career I worked at several brand consulting agencies in New York City. I am pictured here with two of my creative directors from the days at Peterson Blythe Associates on 45th Street in Manhattan. Richard & Pam Shear, now the founding principals of The Shear Partnership located in South Norwalk Connecticut and Barbara Wentz the Adjunct Assistant Professor at FIT in New York had a tremendous influence on my career.
After spending an evening laughing and reminiscing with them, I come to realize, once again, how important people are in our lives. As we sat by the roaring fire in Barbara’s lovely living room, we discussed graphic design then and now, the impact computers have on our industry, and where is this all going anyway. Barbara and Richard are professors at universities in New York City, so their interest in the next generation is heightened. It was great to ponder all this with trusted colleagues.
As I reflect on this wonderful evening with my colleagues, thinking about my own business, and how we work.…what is my my “take-away” from all this? Stay connected to the people in your life who have had a positive impact on you and never stop learning!