For my Freshmen Seminar Art class assignment, I was to interview an artist. I decided to interview my aunt's boyfriend, David Ho, whose a graphic designer, working at REPS (Real Estate Promotional Services). His main job is to create design ads for real estate agents who want to sell houses for customers. Here's the interview:
Hi Brenda,
I hope I answered all of them...It's getting late and I think I might not be thinking right.... so, look through it and let me know if you need me to re-answer or elaborate any of the answers. Thanks.
When did you become interested in the art field and why?
It started in high school, I didn’t really know what I want to be--All I know is that I wanted something creative. In my senior year, I enrolled in a graphics ROP class, also known as regional occupational program. This program allows students to earn school credits while learning trade skills in a real job environment (almost like, internship).
After taking that class, I knew I wanted to continue on that study. Especially, when I found out that you can make a living creating art using computers. During that time frame, most companies were making the switch from cut and paste method to computer based layout.
One the side note: My parents did not approve me in studying art, because they thought I would end up selling paintings on a street --- to prove them wrong I continued my study and applied for a job in the art field.
What challenges did you go through in college/school in order to get to where you are today?
In this field, you always need to update your software skill. Especially, when new software or updates are coming out every six months or so. I can’t really think of any challenges when I was going to school--except the challenge now is trying to keep up with all new software updates.
For a job interview, what did you have in your portfolio? Do you constantly change your portfolio to fit the job description, or did you show the employer all your past works?
For a job interview I would have actually completed projects I did including mistakes that I have done. So, I can explain to the employer why a particular piece is wrong. I also, will have an interactive CD with my art pieces that I would leave behind.
Yes, I typically do change my portfolio to fit the job description.
Do you enjoy what you do as a graphic designer? Why/why not?
I do enjoy being a graphic designer, however at times it can be very stressful. Especially, with the deadlines you need to meet. In this field, you don’t create artwork for yourself or set your own deadlines. The client is always right, especially when they are paying you.
Or if you could do it all again, would you switch your focus onto another major?
No, I wouldn’t change my major. But, I would add on to what I learned.
How do you deal with critiques?
In this business, you have to have a thick skin--being able to take critiques is very important. If you can’t take critiques, then this is not a field you should get into. I would say 99% percent of the time your design will change from what you started out at. The client will critique the design and change it to their concept.
What school did you go to and why?
I started at a JC, but after a year -- I went to a technical school (Silicon Valley College) to finish up my degree, because I wanted to get into the field sooner. However, years later I find myself going back to school to get a different degree. But this degree does balance out my graphics degree.
Because there are trends in the art field, do you keep up with them, or do your own thing?
Yes, I try to keep up with the trends, but at times it is a good idea to do your own thing--that is how a trend get started. Your idea, can be the next trend.
What advice would you give if I want to get into a graphic design/art field? Or, how should I prepare for a graphic design/art career?
To be honest, everyone is different. If you are really interested in this filed, I would try internship. Also, depending on what sector you are entering I would focus your attention to those type of design. For example, if you are interested in motion graphics--then I would study 3-D animation, rendering techniques, sound editing, etc.
What inspires you to become an artist/graphic designer before you came into the art field, when you were in the art field, and after landing a career in REPS? Meaning, do you have any muses that inspires your work?
Nature inspires me, at times, when I’m hiking or wondering outside I would see things that I would like to incorporate into my design. For example, if I see a telephone pole I would think its kind of unique. I would be thinking to myself, I can use the color/texture of the log as a background.
Are there any challenges you face in your job? Please explain.
There are many challenges that comes with this job from technical to non technical. For example, trying to color match offset print to fiery digital print.
As a graphic designer you deal with customers, do you suggest I also minor in business (if I were to major in the art field)?
I would highly recommend you minor or major in business or something that accompany your graphics degree. For example, I went back to school and got a BS in CIS (computer information system) --- with those degrees I can apply for UX/UI Designer position or Web Designer position.
Business major with graphics is a very good idea, especially if you plan to start your own business some day or even apply for management position, like Marketing Director.
Thank you, David for the awesome interview! :)
I'll be sure to note all these answers into mind before deciding on the major. You can also check REPS's website and see David's design at: http://www.repsweb.com/
*Other than that, please comment on this blog on any thoughts, questions, concerns, art information, etc. you might have. Comments are greatly appreciated!
*Other than that, please comment on this blog on any thoughts, questions, concerns, art information, etc. you might have. Comments are greatly appreciated!
