Thursday Traffic | 29 April

It is Thursday again, readers, and I like my traffic shaken, not stirred. However, today was surprisingly smooth sailing. Have you ever experienced a day when you are suddenly ahead of schedule? It's a wonderful feeling. Not only was traffic moving faster than other days this week, I got to work early enough to get a head start on today's tasks.

You might wonder what I was pondering while zooming through the unclogged streets. Well, I have realized that although the computer is a great tool for creating materials, I miss the more manual side of design. Something about cranking a press and seeing that tiny impression from the plate feels good. Printmaking helped me understand the entire printing process better and I feel that I benefited from it. I was never able to try letterpress, but I do want to set type at least once so I have a greater appreciation and understanding of the digital tools available now. Why do that? you might ask. Well, in the same way that people pursue manual photography over digital photography, I pursue "manual" graphic design. Drawing by hand, measuring with a ruler, printing materials myself—this is something that I value. In the words of A. J. Liebling, "Freedom of the press is only guaranteed to those who own one."

Image via TheCity Fix DC

Artist spotlight | M. C. Escher

I think that we can learn a lot from artists of the past. They give art a history (which is important) and they discovered proportions and tricks that make it much easier to create drawings that are almost real. One artist that really brought something to printmaking was M. C. Escher. His use of math to create his art works was impeccable. I have been inspired by Escher during several of my own projects, and I hope he inspires you as well. I have some of his images after the jump for your viewing pleasure. If you want to learn more about him and his work, visit his official website.