Comments on: Child’s Play

By: Ian Thomson

Ian Thomson — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 16:38:02 +0000

Jane K. was kind enough to send me this article, it was great

Ian

By: Matt Tibble

Matt Tibble — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 05:50:14 +0000

Andy, a wonderfully personal and honest review of your creative path thus far. Whilst I studied for a few years on the basics of design (about 15 years ago) I have continued to learn that to be a designer is a harder, more challenging and more misunderstood path to walk than most other professions. It is my firm belief that those who chose to work at interpreting ideas and creating a visual representation of them for others, have a very special gift that should be nurtured.

I am sure your parents are proud of the decisions you have made. Enjoy the journey and the experiences on the way.

By: If you think you can, you can. — cafedave.net

If you think you can, you can. — cafedave.net — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 13:26:03 +0000

[...] A brief blog post on parental expectation and becoming the best designer you can be. [...]

By: mq

mq — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 14:56:48 +0000

Great article. My mom (also chinese) used to always recommend that I go back to school for business or engineering, even after I graduated from risd and started to earn a good wage.

You have a great start to a successful career. Design is definitely in the details and it seems like you have that inner reserve fuel in you to keep you working on something till it feels right. Your sense of gratitude, enthusiasm and willingness to learn will certainly leave a great impression on whomever you collaborate with.

By: Jayne

Jayne — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:21:05 +0000

I can relate to this too. My Thai dad always wanted me to go the doctor route(like him), but still supported me going into design (like my older brother). I remember talking to him, fretting about getting into the very selective design program at my school. He just calmly said “Don’t need to worry, if you want it that bad you’ll make it happen.” And I got in.

I think about that line a lot. Probably one of my favorite bits of advice.

By: pamela wesson

pamela wesson — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 07:24:32 +0000

Hello from Paris, where my work touches on design. I used to help run the printshop at 185 Nassau, back in the late 70s, where I also ground out many posters using letterpress and photosilkscreen. Glad to see that Pentagram is still the place to be, and they’re lucky to have you. Did you notice that Edward Tufte is speaking in New York end of July? Don’t miss it. Wish I could go. Details on his site.

By: Grace

Grace — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 03:56:12 +0000

Hi Andy,
This is a great article that I can relate to. My Chinese parents also wanted me to go down the doctor/lawyer route. Although they were dismayed I did design instead, they still supported me, however reluctantly. Even if your dad won’t understand a thing you do or what design is, he can be proud that his son will work hard for what he wants. You are lucky to be around designers were are passionate about sharing and teaching. I’m sure you will learn invaluable lessons.
Best of luck.

By: Russell

Russell — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 23:41:56 +0000

Andy, I really enjoyed this piece. I think you are working with some of the most talented human beings I’ve met…you really are in the center of a universe and it makes me happy to read your enthusiasm about New York. It would be so great if your background and special talents could be applied to getting Americans excited about the World’s Fair in Shanghai next year!

By: Jens Nikolaus

Jens Nikolaus — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:50:31 +0000

Thanks for sharing this.

By: pat Taylor

pat Taylor — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:40:45 +0000

Andy, I’m 75 years old and still in graphic design.
I think you are really on the right track to becoming
successful and happy as a graphic designer. good luck!