I was on the horn last week with a client talking about what KARJAKA is, to which she blurted out off the cuff, “A useable thing that looks beautiful.” To which I replied, “Modern Design by KARJAKA.”

If you know me, or are in my orbit, you know that I’m obsessed with design… graphic design, product design, brand design, packaging design, information design, interior, furniture, UX etc. the list goes on. This magazine was borne out of curiously designing mock graphic Vogue covers to teach my students at Parsons, and here we are 6 years later. Taken aback from her statement, I paused and thought about what defines Design? My own thoughts are the organization, functionality, usefulness, (and other adjectives) of something aesthetically pleasing.

I’d never really thought about that with photographs, or my photos in particular, as something to have boiled down to it’s most basic principles. But maybe that’s what defines Art? In today’s world I’m torn between the commercialness of our fashion, interiors, still life and beauty to fullfill certain goals and needs. Sell more of this, highlight that, give the feel of open air, capture the anti-aging of this product on skin, all of which I’m only too happy to oblige. Meanwhile, I have clients that want the ineffable captured, the softness, the rawness, what’s behind the curtain and buried deep into the soul. For both camps, to my eye, it’s all Art, and yes, design, too.

There’s a lot I could say on what Art and Design are, and deserves far more than a 4 minute Letter from the Editor article, but this statement has me thinking on pottery and throwing clay, the process and end result. The design and art of it all. A vessel, no matter how well it’s made, even with cracks or holes, is still a vessel and has utility in some form or fashion. Do those who throw clay need utility from the end product, or is process of the making the item the usable and satisfying need, the art. So much to be curious about, I leave it to Don and Mandy to answer those questions in this month’s Issue at Clayground.

Me, in the meantime I’ll take it… a KARJAKA, a useable thing that looks beautiful.

Modern design by KARJAKA.

Christina Halatsis of Halatsis Architecture puts the final touches on the doorway to Clayground as Don unveils their glorious storefront windows, while Russ does his Russ things on the digital tech cart.

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Product design has this mystic aura surrounding it. It involves creativity, innovation, and the ability to solve complex problems in new and exciting ways. Designers are often seen as people who can transform ideas into tangible and visually appealing products which can be attractive to others. Designers often work across all industries and greatly influence product development; therefore, designers have extensive power to impact business or create new business opportunities. This can contribute to the perception that design is unattainable and the profession is quite illusive. 

Yes, that is the perception, but someone can also say that entering this field takes some luck, such as getting your first high-profile client, but be aware; a lot of hard work is involved. A small percentage, like any creative field, has a bit of luck behind it. Still, after luck, the determining factor for success are skills, creativity, hard work ethic, and the ability to solve complex problems. These skills may come naturally for some, but for most, it takes years of experience and learning to be an expert. Another determining factor for success is how well you can collaborate and influence others. Designers work closely with different stakeholders, and it will be an uphill battle if one can not deal with different personalities. Therefore, one only benefits from luck if there is a solid foundation to stand on. 

Designers are constantly developing their skills, staying up-to-date on the latest design trends and technologies, and working hard to create designs that meet the needs of their users and clients. Designers must always stay abreast of the latest technology and trends or be left behind in this competitive landscape. Technology moves fast, and keeping up is not for the unmotivated individual. As the world competes in a global market, more demands exist to innovate and ship quickly. It takes a quick learner and a quick-witted person to stay at the forefront of what users may want to consume in an ever-changing landscape.  

However, it is essential to acknowledge that luck can sometimes play a role in a designer’s success, such as being discovered by a high-profile client or winning a prestigious design award. Luck can provide designers with opportunities, but their skills and hard work will ultimately determine their long-term success in the design industry. The fast pace of technological progress is driven by a complex interplay of market demand, competition, innovation, and investment. Technology constantly evolves, and staying abreast of the latest developments can help you identify new opportunities for creativity and innovation. Understanding the latest technology trends and developments can generate new ideas and approaches to help designers stand out. By continually learning and staying informed, designers can position themselves for success and continue to grow and develop in their careers. – KL

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