Design Feast Series: Designer’s Quest(ionnaire)

Missy Austin

Designer

Logo for Zeus Jones

Primary design concentration:

Little of everything, but branding and identity is probably my focus

Most preferred tools for designing:

Sketchbook, Computer, Mouse

Illustration and type design for Studio on Fire calendar

How and why did you choose to become a designer?

My entire childhood was spent filling sketchbooks and visiting art museums, so I knew I would do something visual someday. I began as a studio art major but found the lack of limitations and subjective nature of things pretty frustrating, and I couldn’t find a purpose in what I was doing beyond personal enjoyment. I switched my major to design and realized it was what I wanted to be doing all along.

What are some of the challenges you encounter as a designer and how do you deal with them?

Ruts. There are times when you feel uninspired and find yourself wanting to turn to the same old tricks rather than coming up with something new. To remedy this, I like to take a step away from what I’m doing and look for inspiration in new places. It really helps to take a walk, start reading something, or even find new websites to check out.

What is your definition of an “elegant solution,” that is, good design?

I think an elegant solution is one where everything comes together: form, function, and a fresh idea. Something that communicates both literally and visually what you need it to. A beautiful solution should be more than just beautiful.

From skills to values, what makes a designer successful?

I think a successful designer never feels satisfied with themselves. Not in a negative way, but in the way that motivates you to keep studying the basics, keep honing your skills, and keep an eye out for what’s happening in the world that affects your work.

Type design for cover of “Get In If You Want To Live” collection of short stories

How do you stay motivated and grow personally and professionally as a designer?

I stay motivated by having a healthy design/life balance. The occasional self-initiated project is a great way to stay fresh and learn new techniques, but I like to save my creative endurance for my 9–5 job in general. If I’m not at work, I’m probably not sitting on my computer.

For those aspiring to become a designer, whatever the discipline, what is your advice?

Don’t be too hard on yourself in the beginning. Becoming the designer you want to be doesn’t happen overnight and that’s okay. Work hard (really hard), keep an eye on what’s happening in the design world, and do your best to make the kind of work you’re proud of.

What is your quest in design, from a professional practice, education or evolution standpoint?

I never want to feel like I’m done learning or improving in anything, especially design. I know I have a lifetime of mistakes and heinous design decisions ahead of me, and I never want to forget that. Professionally, I hope I can continue to work with incredibly talented, smart, and filthy-minded individuals that make me laugh. Life is just better when you can surround yourself with good people.

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