Marlin may have had a fairly arduous trek when he journeyed across the ocean to Find Nemo, but I would argue that it is just as difficult to find inspiration. In the start of 2020 when quarantine began, there was a total shift in priorities and functionalities. Workflow was completely upended, and people needed to find fast new solutions to creative problems. However, back then, there was a naïve idea that this was all temporary. Nowadays, we know that Covid isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
It is therefore imperative that we modify and adapt. One of the most important things for me was figuring out a new way to find inspiration. I used to merely surf the web, social media, hashtags, etc. However, screen burnout is real and all of those sites just added to the monotony of zoom meetings. I discovered that, even as an introvert, fresh air and physical surroundings were key.
In those early days, I did pretty much the only thing to do – walk. I would start walking and become totally immersed in my environment. Up until this point, I had only walked around New York City with the goal of getting somewhere. I therefore used to miss all the nuances along the way because I was always in a hurry. But to stroll around for the purpose of appreciating your surroundings is a totally different game.
I became aware of the subtleties of seasons. I found awesome signage in the stores and restaurants that lined the street. Walking through NYC neighborhoods, I noted the distinct character of each one. It was like a whole new sense opened up. Because I was no longer comparing myself to all the other designers on the web, I was instead flexing my own muscles. Therefore, what I produced that summer is some of the work that I am most proud of.