All impactful art should be created through conviction and meaning. A simple message created and applied to a graphical treatment can profoundly influence our communities. However, not every project will have a profound cultural impact, but we should treat the creative process rigorously, nonetheless. As it says in scripture, "Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for others," (Colossians 3:23, NABRE).
Milton Glaser's design work inspires me, but I am just as inspired by the man himself. Proverbs 16:3 says, "Entrust your works to the Lord, and your plans will succeed." The symbol that he created became more than the next payday. His focus was on creating fantastic work that communicated a message to inspire. He did not define himself as an illustrator, art director or graphic designer. Milton Glaser was a creator.
His career as an artist embodied what I try to instill in my design students as professor at Grand Canyon University. No matter your major, in our curriculum, we tell stories through ad campaigns, interface designs and motion graphics. Those graphics need to have an intention and thoughtfulness behind them. Our students learn about viewing a project holistically and do not engage in frivolous tasks. Instead, they craft thoughtful and strategic work. That is the purpose of art in life. That is why I am proud to teach in the Digital Design Department in the College of Arts and Media at Grand Canyon University.
I ❤ GCU.
Retrieved from:
1 Logoworks, A Brief History of the I Love New York Logo in September 2022.
2 The Museum of Modern Art in September 2022.
3 I LOVE NY in September 2022.
4 9/11 Memorial & Museum, The Story Behind the Iconic Post-9/11 “I Heart New York More Than Ever” Logo in September 2022.
5 UX Design, Milton Glaser’s Grand User Experience in September 2022.
Approved by the author on Oct. 14, 2022