For any artist out there interested in the ideas of “professionalism”, advancing our industry of design and art, and the ideals of advancing ones self (natural artistic abilities) then they ought to take a serious look into reading “The Fountainhead” by Ayn Rand. It completely changed my perspective on my art and myself after reading it. While its a really long book, I found it to be a quick read. Its loosely based off Frank Lloyd Wright and his battle against the national desire for classical/gothic architecture in US as a result of the World’s Fair in Chicago. The World’s Fair opened people’s eyes to the beauty of architecture but proved to be detrimental in the progress of architecture in the US for decades as a result since people demanded nothing but ornate classical and gothic architecture for years afterwards. While the book deals with architecture I think there are a lot of parallels that we as artist can take away from including the importance of keeping ones artistic vision and not caving in completely to the demands of the masses.

There is always people out there willing to do jobs for less money and with less skill which ultimately reflects in the work… I’m a huge believer in capitalism… so this sort of thing I feel ultimately helps the profession advance… If some “unprofessional” can output the same material a professional can then its time for the professional to find something new… Competition in turn produces innovation… Professionals should always strive for the newest and best things in their work, things that they create and thus are known for…

Motion graphics is art, and is creative but it is still is a business and it is restricted by the rules of economics and business just like everything else… What I would say to the “unprofessionals” is “bring it on… I have what it takes to remain at the top!”

It’s funny, I was just having this conversation with a friend (SCAD faculty, actually) – about whether schools ought to emphasize artistic or technical skills. A lot of universities want to focus on the theoretical side of things, which is fine, but doesn’t really help you get a job… but of course the other side of the coin is being “just” a technician with no design chops to back it up. You have to have both, really, whether you get it from school or from work experience.

I don’t believe professionalism can be taught, but the framework for it can be instilled. By shaping the social environment in critiques, the students’ interpersonal interactions, and the students’ perception of design the students can get a sense of the behavior and culture that is acceptable in the design workplace. How is this possible? From observing the instructor.

I would argue that most, if not all, of many students’ perceptions of the design workplace comes from their instructors. An inspiring instructor will make most students strive to be like that person. Their professionalism will rub off, if not in theory then at least in attitude (the shallow, naïve, ignorance-based, and misguided attitude he callously doles out).

As to early freelance vs. agency debate, I think it’s largely subjective. Here’s where Andy takes a leap off the deep end based on his personal opinions. Which is fine. It’s his blog. So here’s mine: I personally think the early mistakes that everyone makes, wether freelancing or at an agency, helps to form the designer as much as their successes. The only tangible difference is that mistakes made freelancing may take food off of their tables.

The other sweeping generalization that I take issue is the degree to which schools create technicians versus professionals. I agree that not schools are created alike, but many schools invite working professionals to teach, lecture and otherwise guide the students. Many also have programs setup where the students engage with a real client. Granted, the school acts as a safety net, but so does an agency.

Lastly, since this is a forum of opinion, I find most of Andy’s writing to be informative and provocative, but incredibly pessimistic and dour. This article in particular lacks the meat and potatoes of most of his writing. If he had backed up with clearer definitions of his vocabulary (what is professionalism?) and examples to back up his judgement (schools turning out technicians), I would have found it more intriguing. Instead of gestalt and food for thought, I came away with a slightly bitter taste from Andy’s perceptions and presentation.