In consideration of Mid-century pioneers, and the various field of designs on which they have explored and left their impact on, I am reminded of my past summer semester in which I took classes on various subjects. Among these courses included topics such as comic books, soundscapes, and writing; none of which have direct relation to my Interaction Design. However, what I had found in exploring these mediums, was that I could approach my work without expectation, pressure, or rigidity that often challenges me in my practice. I felt that I could engage with subject matter than resonated with me, without fear of judgement or accusation of impracticality, because the work was solely for my own sake and growth.
And even more strongly, the short-time I spent writing and illustrating comics, composing soundscapes, writing and performing literary work, allowed me to see how the design process can be applicable to any medium. Perhaps it is not so much our skill that makes us valuable designers, but our willingness to learn, adapt, and problem solve.
There is great diversity even within the field of Interaction Design. And as Interaction Designers, we wear many hats and fill many roles, to say the least. Thus, in engaging in unfamiliar mediums, we may begin to develop our own toolset towards optimal flexibility, and approach our own work with a quick-footed nature to tackle challenges without fear.
