Root is not about following in footsteps, it's about creating footsteps. To be more specific, it's not about seeking employment where powerful design exists; it's about going elsewhere and bringing it into existence. For every popular shop, firm, agency or group that's out there, someone's ability is responsible for it's popularity. Root was created to inspire, encourage and challenge designers to take the road less traveled and be that someone. This is not a new concept, it's just a reminder that we, as designers, have the option to establish greatness as opposed to following behind it; to become the essential part; to root. Dig in.
Action
Each year, I visit a few graphic design programs at area universities to discuss my experiences as an in-house graphic designer. This year, in 2010, I plan to visit bearing gifts. I designed and printed an 11x17 poster that houses the Root mission.
The objective is not to trap the students in a room and force this idea on them. I simply want to offer perspective. During my visit, the posters will be made available, as opposed to being passed out. Take em' if you want em' :)
For anyone else who wants the poster, a high resolution PDF can be downloaded here. No trimming necessary. Just load some cool paper into the printer and press go.
Though the Root project caters to designers, the big picture is visible for many others to see.
Background
When I began developing the Root project, the idea was to inspire entry-level designers who, at the beginning, find themselves at unexpected or atypical places of employment. The overarching message was: make the most of the situation that you're in. If circumstances place you where design is lacking, accept the challenge and find a way to bring dynamic design into existence.
While developing this idea, I realized that neither experience level nor circumstance were essential parts. Designers at any level, making a conscious decision to travel this route, could be even more powerful. This choice could potentially advance the design industry by strengthening areas of weakness, while simultaneously satisfying personal quests to create change. It could possibly establish design where it never existed. I imagine that being responsible for such an occurrence evokes a sense of accomplishment beyond description. From the evolution of this belief, the Root project was born.
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