Design 21: Social Design Network

Its hard to tell what kind of designer I am. As I inwardly search for meaning in my work I find that design in itself offers a lot of avenues all tinkerers, professionals and even dabblers can pursue. But what sets us apart as designers is not about the kind of design we practice, but what purpose we practice design for.

I started out in design by accident, but I have been a silent ally of the arts for as long as I can remember. It's a love-hate relationship. Frustrations kept my productivity at bay as I challenge myself with other interests. I have to say that I don't live solely for design, although I wish to be defined by the work that I do but not to the extent of boxing my entire being in.

I celebrate the invisible threads that link all disciplines from visual art to music to engineering and back. Most of all I revel in the possibility of design affecting change in forlorn communities and socities in need of better functional utilities at a fraction of what "good design" costs today.

As designers I think we are divinely handed down both a responsibility and opportunity to shape a future that's always inclined towards the betterment of the societies we live in, it's up to us to search for the defining strength that will enable us to pursue it.