Machine of Inspiration
"Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Design is knowing which ones to keep." - Scott Adams
As designers, we often seek inspiration to fuel our creativity and projects. It can feel like wandering through a desert, looking for ideas. But when we find that spark, it's like discovering a treasure chest full of possibilities.
Inspiration is not a moment of brilliance but a process that unfolds over time. It's the result of curiosity, exploration, and a keen eye for the world around us. As designers, we draw inspiration from a myriad of sources – nature's patterns, urban landscapes, art movements, cultural heritage, and even everyday objects that we often overlook.
One of the remarkable aspects of inspiration is its ability to transform our perception of challenges. What may initially seem like an intimidating task becomes an exciting opportunity once we are inspired. It's the difference between staring at a blank canvas and seeing a world of possibilities waiting to be brought to life. When we are motivated and inspired, we can easily visualize our projects, envisioning the result with clarity and enthusiasm. The journey to finding inspiration is not always linear. It's filled with moments of frustration, doubt, and uncertainty. There are times when we hit roadblocks when ideas refuse to flow, and when self-doubt creeps in. It's during these moments that patience and persistence become our allies. We learn to embrace the process, trusting that inspiration will eventually find its way to us.
As designers, we also understand the value of immersing ourselves in different experiences and perspectives. Traveling to new places, exploring diverse cultures, indulging in art and literature, and engaging in conversations with people from varied backgrounds – these are all facilitators for inspiration. They expand our horizons, challenge our assumptions, and fuel our creativity in unexpected ways. Moreover, collaboration and exchange of ideas play a vital role in finding inspiration. Working with fellow designers, sharing insights, and bouncing ideas off each other's creativity can lead to breakthroughs that we may not achieve in isolation. It's the interaction of collective minds coming together that often sparks the most innovative and inspired solutions.
In our creative journey, my favorite inspiration websites are Pinterest and Pantone. Pinterest, with its massive collection of visual inspiration, allows me to discover new ideas, trends, and design styles. Similarly, Pantone guides me in choosing color palettes that evoke emotions and enhance my design concepts. Together, Pinterest and Pantone are my favorite combo for inspiration, enriching my creative process and helping me unlock the full potential of my projects.
In conclusion, the journey of finding inspiration as a designer is a dynamic and transformative experience. It's about embracing curiosity, being open to new perspectives, and persisting through challenges. When we cultivate a mindset of curiosity and exploration, inspiration becomes not just a destination but a continuous journey of growth and creativity. So, let's keep seeking, exploring, and discovering the inspirations that fuel our passion for design and unlock the full potential of our projects.
Hi there! I’m Emilia Massarelli.
But you can call me Emi. I am a graphic interactive designer and programmer.