This past semester has been somewhat strange and sometimes difficult. However, I feel that I have made very large steps in my development.
For the M22 semester, my main goals are very much the same as they were for this semester;
- To develop my vision and identity as a designer through the design of a good graduation project that allows me to express them.
- Developing my professional conduct and competencies as a designer, learning how to deal with the challenges of being a (independent) designer.
In relation to the first goal, I feel the focus on my vision needs to return stronger in the next semester. The way Dewey discusses experience will be an important tool for me in the design process of these installations that should convey profound meaing. However, I feel that this way, using it as a tool, has taken the focus in this past semester. The other way in which I need to develop it, has lagged behind a bit these past months. An important point of attention is to develop its content further by relating it to more theory. I regard this is as very important for me eventual graduation.
I am very much interested in, and look forward to, the learning experiences this graduation project as well as the company we started will provide me in terms of professional development, in regards to the second goal.
A crucial part of the coming semester, fully geared towards the Siena graduation project will present very new and difficult challenges. Already, it has become clear that picking this project up from the ground, starting with very little, is very difficult. Especially in terms of communication and negotiation, I have learned a great deal. However, this will only increase as the project continues, with so many stakeholders and a real client, location and deadline. The project management side of the this project is turning out to be a large part of the whole.
However, it is these challenges that I look most forward to as well. As I regard them as imperative for my development as a designer and I feel lucky to be able to gain these experiences still within the University context and its available expertise.