Learn more about Tom at https://www.tparkes.com
Today I’m speaking with Tom Parkes - a Web+Brand designer. Tom’s worked at both agencies such as Instrument, Justified Studio, MetaLab, and freelanced for companies such as Airbnb, Microsoft and he’s now at Glide - where I work - leading web & brand. We talked about many things like:
- The activity and craft of design
- Sensitivity and receptivity to design and art.
- Design in agencies versus in-house.
- The difference between art and design
- How design is merging with motion
- And of course, much, much more.
Summary (AI Generated) In this conversation, Jack Vaughan speaks with Tom Parkes, a web and brand designer, about his journey in design, the evolution from graphic design to visual communication, and the importance of sensitivity and emotional connection in the design process. They discuss the role of typography, the impact of university experiences, and the balance between trends and timelessness in design. Tom shares insights on the significance of communication in design and how it shapes the designer’s approach to their work. In this conversation, Tom discusses the intricacies of branding and design, emphasizing the importance of presentation, critique, and the separation of personal identity from work. He introduces his ‘Holy Trinity’ of design process, which includes context, empathy, and execution. The dialogue explores the balance between art and design, the evolution of digital design, and the significance of brand strategy. Tom reflects on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in design, advocating for a thoughtful approach to integrating new technologies while maintaining the essence of creativity. Chapters (AI Generated)
00:00The Evolution of Design Terminology
05:44Navigating Design Education and Personal Growth
13:45The Emotional Connection to Design
19:42Sensitivity and Vulnerability in Creativity
29:38Staying Relevant in Design Trends
37:12The Essence of Timeless Design
39:49The Evolution of Branding
43:26The Art of Communication in Design
54:23Tom’s Holy Trinity of Design Process
58:02The Intersection of Art and Design
01:06:38Navigating the Balance of Web and Brand Design
01:07:13The Evolution of Brand Strategy in Design
01:11:59The Intersection of Design and Development
01:16:24Reflections on Product Design vs. Brand Design
01:19:13Creating Synchronicity Between Brand and Product
01:22:10Systems Thinking in Design
01:25:59The Importance of Brand Strategy in Design
01:30:44The Future of Design in the Age of AI