Creative process - The Vignelli's and Karim Rashid - What is their importance in our lives?

Lately I have been wondering about what a real creative process should be like, and how it reflects on my client’s daily experiences.

Some designers are beyond our time and provide us a guideline on how to achieve that faster. I feel the obligation of mentioning three of the most influential ones in my life and maybe our century: Karim Rashid and the Italian power couple Massimo and Lella Vignelli.

Both have an amazing resemblance: They design products with a huge variety of categories (furniture, packaging’s, subways graphics, logos, and off course every day utensils) with one goal in mind - Function and timeless aesthetic.

Designing a garment, accessory or any creation that slips into a piece of paper with the magical touch of graphite making its shape from concept to completion requires more than skills...it demands being humble, simple and above all, providing timeless pieces.

For those of you who haven’t watched the Vignelli's, documentary, here is a great opportunity of learning more about their fascinating journey from visionaries and immigrants coming from Italy to NY and making the American dream possible, as well as showcasing the world how life can become simpler and an easier place to live in.

From working with Knoll, NY transport system, churches, schools, American Airlines (which hasn't changed their graphic design since, thanks to Massimo's Helvetica obsession) and many more, it will definitely make you think twice on spending so much time on your developments.

When talking about Karim Rashid I instantly think of his bright smile, crazy eyewear and off course pink...lots of pink!

I was only 18 years old when I had the amazing opportunity of working on packaging projects for a lingerie company next to him. Karim’s sense of humor was so effortless, that working never felt like an obligation at any given second, but an easy task that elaborated your sense of taste and fulfillment in life! I had finally understood the meaning of allowing yourself to wonder free and fearless of making mistakes.

My design and creative process were forever changed and evolved due to that experience in the last 12 years, providing me the ability to look away from post its, too many inspirational boards/scraps, being a trend victim and just allowing myself to trust my guts.

I guess that's the most important lesson you could ever learn: Really be true to yourself! Mistakes will be made, criticism will arise but you should always stand your ground for something you truly believe, because by doing it so, with time, others will comprehend as well and if they don't you will always be unique. At a certain time of history your work will be seen.