About the Author
Adam Davis
Adam Davis is our dedicated interactive graphic designer. He studied Interactive Media at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design and briefly worked in the video game industry at Activision before relocating to southern Ohio. He likes to approach problems systematically and work on a diverse range of projects.
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Looking for Inspiration in Unfamiliar Places
A Guide to Inspiration
Inspiration is an elusive creature. It rarely appears on command and becomes even hard to find when chased! When hunting for inspiration I have found it is always best to keep an open mind and don’t chase inspiration but chase the opportunity to be inspired.
Step-One
Find what gets you excited (what gets your heart pumping). This all comes down to individual taste and interests. Knowing ones self is the most important part to motivation and inspiration. For help with this step make lists.
Step Two
With the knowledge of your interests you will be able to search for places that will have the greatest likelihood of being a “well of inspiration”. For this step consider looking for a Class, a book, a or Museum that is has things that are interesting to you.
Step Three
This part can be a harder because if you are doing it right you will find yourself in unfamiliar and maybe uncomfortable territory. When looking for inspiration it is essential to be open mined and willing to try new things.
Once you have completed step 2 consider taking a second class from the same instructor on a different topic, Read a book from the same author on something you know nothing about, revisit the museum when new exhibits open especially if the exhibit holds little interest for you at first glance. Do step three with the same diligence that was put toward step two and new ideas and new Inspiration will be gained by expanding your horizons.
With the new ideas and thoughts gainded from this exercise I am sure that the next great idea or design is just around the corner!
Personal Note:
It was with this method that I have found that flea markets auctions, and antique malls, with their ever-changing collection of vintage magazines, toys, household objects and antiques are the best place for me personally to hunt for the inspiration. . It took awile to feel comfortable in these unfamiliar environments, but once I did I have found them to be a valuable source of inspiration that helps inform my creative work at home and in the office.