ran across this really amazing article in the 1986 fall edition of Print Magazine. Set as a Print cover design competition for students, it touched on the ambivalence that most students had during that time toward technology finding its way into the creative industry.

I must say, I really love these concepts. Especially that first one. Believe it or not, though, most of the creative students involved with this project during that time were against the idea of computers being considered as a legitimate tool toward a creative outlet.

Reading this article has not only been inspiring, it has made me reflect on the way things are presently in the design industry, and how most people are now very dependent on technology to be able to consider themselves a designer. That’s really too bad, as that mindset certainly reflects on your own limitations.

If your computer dies, are you no longer a designer? Are you hindered to be able to complete your job as a designer? These are serious questions that have been asked, but conveniently ignored, or even denied as legitimate concerns.

Don’t get me wrong. I believe technology is an integral part of creative progression & innovation. But don’t confuse that with the idea that technology is the answer to all of our problems. It most certainly is not. Technology is only one part of the ingredients toward innovation and progress. Real innovation and progress begins with our imagination, and our willingness to dream big, as well as our independence of any one tool / medium. These are things that technology cannot do for us. If we depend solely on machines to do our work, and ignore traditional methods of design practice, we’re giving up a lot more than our skills. Our reputations are on the line as well. As designers, it’s not only our job to seek out new and innovative ways to create, but also remembering, and even practicing what our peers and inspirations have achieved before us by lesser means.