The Designer's Manifesto — The Everyday Designer #28

The other day I was watching an interview of Brian Collins, and I heard an interesting factoid that stopped me in my tracks. He had studied and retraced the Helvetica typeface for over a year. One typeface, for one year. Imagine that. So that, by the time he had reached the year, he knew how to draw every character blindfolded with his eyes closed and backwards. In that moment, I was amazed at the dedication to the craft.

I’ve been doing a lot of reflecting about my life lately,(as I usually do, anyone else?) and I was specifically thinking about the things that we shed over time to make room for developing new skills, or new passions, or new family & friends. Contrasted with the things that stay with us for the rest of our lives, the people we love dearly to this day, the skills that still use to this day. I realized I’ve never been more passionate in my life about design than right now. I’ve never wanted to be a designer more than right now. And I also realized I can’t be the only one that feels that way.

Tobias van Schneider wrote an incredible article titled “Where are our design heroes?” (you can read it?here, highly recommend) and basically it talks about how the internet and more specifically social media has eradicated the purity of the designer. No more designing for the sake of design but for the likes, comments, views, attention, fill in the blank. There is a lack of a desire to learn the craft that is missing these days.

That is why I came up with The Design Manifesto, I’m planting my stake in the ground to rededicate myself to the craft of design. To the long-term skill mastery development. To the long and sometimes painful road of the slow process. In a world that applauds speed and efficiency I want to remember the slow and steady wins of designing with intention.

So here it is, my stake in the ground:

The Designer’s Manifesto

As an ever-optimistic designer, my mission is to showcase life's beauty. I firmly believe that there is a beautiful essence waiting to be uncovered. With love as my lens, I seek to discover that beauty which permeates everything.

At the core of my creative journey, I honour the purity of craftsmanship. I value the artistry and skill that bring life to my creations, blending tradition with innovation. I pay homage to design heroes who have paved the way, by mirroring their devotion to the integrity of the art.

Like Robert Baden-Powell wisely remarked, "Try and leave this world a little better than you found it." I strive to infuse the world with hope and compassion, upholding the sanctity of my craft.

For my children, grandchildren, and future generations, I am committed to painting the world with the brushstrokes of goodness and preserving the virtue of my creative pursuits. I will not falter, knowing that my efforts ripple into eternity, shaping a brighter and more beautiful tomorrow for all.

Together, let us embrace the art of creating beauty. Let us celebrate the wonder of existence and the mastery of our craft. Let us breathe life into a world that thrives on love, dedication, and honour—leaving a legacy of boundless inspiration for generations to come.

Sincerely,

Alexis Presa

What about you?

Did this resonate with you? Is this something you’re on board for? Did this stir something deep inside you? Has something begun to rekindle in your heart, maybe now, a time to rededicate yourself to the mastery of the craft?

I would love to hear about it. Feel free to reach out to me and let’s share in this resolve.

Thank you

I wanted to give a special shoutout to some friends of mine for their help in proof-reading and editing the manifesto. (Thank you Erynn, Oliver & Jeff!) It really does take a village, we can’t do this alone.