Getting ink on your hands

Over the last couple of years there has been a trend in the design world to get back to basics and to hand build or draw out the design, to use letterpress, make your own type or screen print a design instead of have it sent to a printer. I for one like this trend and although unfortunately I have not had much chance to use with my clients I still like to get my hands dirty and use dip pens and watercolors and inks.

This sketch is of the word ink which seems to come into play in many of the forms of handmade design from sketching/drawing, screen printing, letter press, painting and so on. Sketch done with a fountain pen, dip pen, toothbrush for the splatter, waterproof ink and white watercolor. Hope you enjoy.

(click image for larger view)

AIGA Speed Networking

Its like speed dating except were design geeks.

This Thursday, February 19th the Orange County Chapter of AIGA will host its first "Speed Networking" event. The event is open to members and non-members alike ($10 fee for non-members). At the last AIGA OC mixer this was some talk of having one of these and it seems the powers that be have decided to make it happen. Basically this is how it works:

• 8-10 people sit down on each side of a table.

• You have 2 minutes to greet the person across from you, and then you each briefly describe to each other what type of work you do and the type of clients you have and 'want' to have.

• An alarm will sound at the end of 2 minutes and everyone moves over one seat. .

• The round ends when you reach the end of the table and you've spoken with each person on the other side of the table.

This sounds like a great way to get together with and meet some of your fellow designers, make some new contacts and have a laugh and a beer all at the same time.

The monthly mixers are usually well attended and this one I am sure will be no exception, so bring that stack of business cards and come meet some new people. The first round will start promptly at 6:00 pm.

The event:
Thursday, Feb 19th, 5:30-8:30 pm:
Tapas Restaurant & Bar
4253 Martingale Way, Newport Beach ::>view map
(949) 756-8194

For more info go to the Orange County AIGA site.