Lecture 2
Challenging mindsets

This is a strategy to free your self from habitual thinking when solving a problem. It is possible to become comfortable in a set routine to solve problems therefore whenever a problem is created, the process of solving the problem will always be the same. You need to challenge yourself to overcome your problem in different ways. If you were to carry out your problem the same way as every other practioner, you would not appear as an individual. You would not be seen as a contender in the design industry and your audience will become bored of your work; for the reason it has been seen before. Following a different process will lead you to a innovative idea. You will learn to challenge mindsets which shall develop a fresh attitude for creative thinking.

While studying at university, I am currently overcoming mindsets that I have previously developed. I feel the change of the mindset is a continuous process. As you learn, you continue to improve in your way of thinking and studying. The change of the mindset may also apply to suit a project, your current way of thinking may not work or be suitable. It is also easy for someone to copy your ideas meaning you will have to develop your idea to produce something innovative.

Illustrator, Christoph Niemann views an idea or problem from a different perspective as discussed. He captures and delivers messages about daily life through the use of smart, humorous sketches. Here he has re-arranged pieces of lego to form different shapes. Annotating the shapes puts an alternative view on the object putting it into a realistic form.

 

Managing a creative environment

Creativity can be influenced by the workplace, culture and interests of a practioner. The workplace can assist the production of creative ideas and their development and implementation. To work at the best of my ability I need to be organised. I need to work in an environment where it is possible to work to a large scale and essential tools are easily accessible. Tools vary from traditional paints, pens to modern hardware and software including, scanners, printers, photoshop and illustrator.

I work better in silence to reflect on inspirational ideas although listening to music can also be relaxing and can change your way of thinking.

Some designers surround themselves with previous work to generate new ideas. This gives them the opputunity to explore their previous design differently. I like to surround my self with inspiration. Anything I see or hear throughout the day that I feel could assist my creative thinking and idea development will be presented in my line of sight. They are there to serve my present and future needs. This may include magazine cutouts, books, advertisements, sketches of unique sculptures/buildings, influenced designers and art pieces. This can be classified as a display of my collection of interests.
Creating a collection involves a process of appreciation, selection and classification and is seen as a reflection of a practioners interest. A collection can have an influence on the work you produce. An example, a collection of shoes could lead to the design of your own style of shoe and brand.