Same for character design. Look at designs you like, think about why you like it, try to reacreate it, build a visual library in your brain that you can pull from whatever you want.
yes, thats what i do/ its the real secret not copying but trying to understand why it worked and the more you do this eventually the hidden language reveals itself.
Same with fine art. Those who think they can find their own unique style without tons of copyright, learning, trying, changing, failing, starting over are just too young to understand how things work.
I agree, both in the realm of graphic design and substance abuse. That last sentiment was so powerful I was taken a back emotionally for a sec… truly what I needed. Thank you
Yasss! I've always said this to designers that I've trained... "Become a good OBSERVER first. Be observant of WHAT looks good and WHY it looks good... then copy every detail of it." Great advice!
As a designer for 30+ years, it's rare to find a client that wants or needs the latest, coolest designs. Graphic design is built on a foundation of typography which is a conservative practice that needs to be mastered, Good design communicates.
I feel it depends on the client. Clients like Nike or Apple want those ultra weird cool designs- cutting edge stuff. But many need those things to percolate in the culture for them to bank on them.
@@jamesnewman48 edgy left of centre, weird, offbeat stuff. The stuff that Its Nice That covers. That works for people who want a very new and fresh aeshetic that has limited use. they want to stand out. A dorling kindersley book may be an example of a more standard design. Whats so funny???
Man, this was so validating to hear. Three months ago I started a new job working as an in house graphic designer for one of the biggest online retailers in my industry. They had another graphic designer in the past who worked remotely and my supervisor is obsessed with his work. Just today my supervisor goes “I need you to work on something.” And I go to check it out and he goes “Did you make this, you’re not that good to make this.” And he showed a design the previous guy made. I’ve been doing the same method and learning how to copy by projecting his compositions onto my artboards BEFORE watching this video. I felt like I was sinning in design terms, like it wasnt even my work. To be clear I do change it up from his original images different with different color schemes and fonts. But man you have no idea how much turmoil, I’ve been feeling over copying even just the placement of products in an image. I’m on my journey and one day i’ll get it down to be able to compose these images myself. The progress i’ve made in the past few months as an employed GD rather than a hobbyist has been staggeringly different and positive. Thank you for helping me realize that.
I am seeing that many people here are reflecting the advice from this vdeos from their own domains. I would argue that this applies to ALL domains of mastery. The way I've originally came across these ideas through an old Japanese martial art concept called Shu Ha Ri. Shu - In this beginning stage the student follows the teachings of one master precisely. He concentrates on how to do the task, without worrying too much about the underlying theory. If there are multiple variations on how to do the task, he concentrates on just the one way his master teaches him. Ha - At this point the student begins to branch out. With the basic practices working he now starts to learn the underlying principles and theory behind the technique. He also starts learning from other masters and integrates that learning into his practice. Ri - Now the student isn’t learning from other people, but from his own practice. He creates his own approaches and adapts what he’s learned to his own particular circumstances.
50 years ago this is exactly what I did to teach myself graphic design. I have no idea why. And now this process is what I share with new designers. Thank you so much for making this video!!!!
Disturbingly strong, true and meaningful words in such a honest manner I've never experienced so far let alone as a free advice from an expert. All I can do now is to copy another comment: "It's amazing how I found this video at the exact time when it is most useful for me." Thank you.
The way you say what I’m thinking but can’t find words for has a value that doesn’t have a dollar amount I can honestly give you bless up my guy seriously 💪
Absolutely unbelievable message thank you. I’m gonna share this with every creative person I know and take it into my own heart as I am an older designer. I feel like I have the right to be unique and to be unbelievably me.
This is fantastic. I've become a designer backwards - fumbling around as someone with natural artistic ability and eventually getting it right after many, many hours of work. Now I need to systemise my designs to go further, and you've kind of confirmed what I always thought. Start with copying, then expand.
The advice in this video hits me so hard that I had feelings. Knowing so well that this is what I need to hear at this stage of my journey makes me grateful to you.
I'm struggling to land a graphic design job because I'm not copying, I'm trying too hard to have my own voice, but you helped me realise that I'm overthinking things and it's easier than i thought, I just have to copy until I become part of the cool designers, land a job, then eventually find my voice, excellent video you earned a new subscriber !!
I think that what many people don't realize is that before you can get your own voice, first you have to realize that, no matter how original you aspire to be, you don't live in a vacuum. You live in a certain culture, you’re surrounded and exposed to a lot of creation, contemporary and past. There’s always a context. It's been said over and over again „there's nothing new under the sun”. But at the same time out of all of these not-new-things you can assemble something new by re-imagining and reinterpreting all those influences and your experiences into something new, after all. But the starting point is realizing - and, more importantly, accepting - okay this is not ground zero, there have been a ton of people already doing this and if I deliberately turn my back on their work, I'm just being ignorant. Same like with breaking rules, you need to learn them first to gracefully break them - but if you break them without even realizing they’re there, you're just an ignorant amateur, unless you’re a true prodigy, perhaps? Then again, even prodigies need to do their work and talent is overrated - ultimately it’s the work that counts. Good luck!
First, loved your story...maybe because I worked in NYC in the 80s and was totally intimidated but directed. I worked in publishing in the photo department of magazines and worked my way up to being a director of photography...I worked with Fred Woodward at Rolling Stone for a few years. For me the same sort of practice -- copying -- was so common in photography. Young photographers would work with famous and talented and in demand photographers, leave the studio and look like a weak version of the person they assisted. The good ones would very quickly jettison their old bosses' techniques or style and create something unique for themselves. It honestly was thrilling to see someone leave a studio and in as little as a few months create their own personal way of shooting. (btw, I have been a commercial photographer for years and I hope my work can at least look like mine vs other photographers I admired...!)
It's important to remember that true mastery comes from not just emulating but also evolving past those influences to forge a distinct creative identity 🎨.
This tip might seem simple at first, but it's incredibly powerful for new designers and those exploring new mediums. I've helped a few designers transition from graphic design to UI, and the biggest challenge is often their lack of a strong repertoire. Thank you for sharing this, Elliot! :)
Yes - that’s what I did. And I copied anything - better homes and garden or Swiss poster stuff. It helped me know what type sizes worked, what different margins did, colors, etc. I took that knowledge and applied to my work. No copying but using the technical specs-small type is good 8pt or whatever. When you learn to play an instrument you play cover songs. It’s the same idea. Great lesson! And you don’t need school for that.
I actually spent 10 years in various fields struggling, spending countless hours making something and getting frustrated and depressed, until I realized I should just simply copy and make it my own...
I have been in the design field for almost 20 years-currently working as a creative director. This message resonates 110% with me. Any designer new or old who is struggling: force yourself to embrace what is taught here and put in the time to understand these ideas. You have decades of master works to use in this process. You can start now, for free. The only question left is whether you have the resolve and focus to commit and see the process completely and thoroughly through. Bravo!
I’m a self learning guy with only an associates. Every day I do at least 2 design projects and watch college grade free courses. I’ve been doing this daily for a year and a half, I appreciate people like you and the poster for helping! I’ve tried the method of sending my portfolio and asking for 5 minutes of advice and only a couple have answered. How could I learn more from people like yourself? Thanks!
Thank you so much for the valuable advice. I was trapped in a loop of perfectionism and procrastination. I buried myself in endless lists of books and courses that I felt I had to study and ended up feeling overwhelmed and frustrated because it all seemed impossible and pointless. Then, I stumbled upon this video on RUclips. It came at just the right moment when I needed it the most.❤
Totally agree with everything said. It took me 10 years to reach this mindset on my own, but you wrapped it up with concision. You collect your bag of tricks through copying and mimicry, but eventually you reach the stage of synthesis where you get to put it all together into something completely unique.
That last point was really crucial. I'm an illustrator starting out learning about graphic design. I was thinking "They all look so similar" before you even mentioned it. This is why I always go back into history for inspiration instead of trying to adhere to the cultural zeitgeist.
Just came across your channel, Wow! I wish I found you earlier. I'm a graphic designer who has 5 years of WOE and I often lack creative direction to make good design, just scroll around in Dribbble and Behance. I felt guilty about copying other designer's work but now I have the guts to push myself and keep your warning in mind as well. Copy the work I aspire to feed myself and walk away for a bit to become an excellent designer.
I don't know much about print design - I'm a filmmaker - but I know that advice is universal and extremely effective. I also really appreciated how good it was to hear a direct unvarnished call to value your originality, be an individualist, don't be driven by conformity to the norm and approval of the in-group but cut your own path. That is a sentiment that today is frequently taboo or poorly received. Maybe it always has been...
You do the same with Feldenkrais movement lessons, which are notoriously difficult to understand for the first 10 years or so. Only difference to design is, however, that there’s very little money in it and almost nobody will understand what you’re doing or grasp the significance of it in the slightest. 😅 Those who do, though, will find it a blessing
Thank you for ❤ing my comment. I apologise that I, as so many other commenters, replied with my experience and sentiment evoked by your speech, rather than praising and highlighting my favourite sections of your video. However, I think this in itself speaks for the strong impact you had here on your viewers. Making up, I especially liked the sharing of your story of visiting 10-minute mentors in New York you as a 18yo aspiring artist; the wrapping up of the purpose of copying at 9:21 and the powerful ending and life advise, of walking away. In my art (somatic education) I think many confuse being scholars of a single mentor, Moshe Feldenkrais (which is made almost impossible due to the ridiculous business choices of the copyright holders) and being an original artist, teacher, practitioner. I think this might be true for many other fields, where historically growth was only possible within tight hierarchies and institutions… such as writing and poetry. It might still be true for professions such as being a midwife or Gp doctor. But times are changing.
Ed was spot on - there's a key synthesis of internalizing aspirational work. Much like an undergrad might need to be taught the key formal art tenets and approach only to throw them away in grad school or in the process discovering ones voice. It's funny to reflect on the corollary of apprenticeship approaches - prior to any higher learning personally being involved art such as graff meant you sucked for a long time. You were a "Toy." Another writer/mentor might "skool" you. You copy, you get to see the "kings" and try to recreate their works. Soon the friends and heroes work combined with the repetitive nature and your own taste would lead to something wholly new. And that grand conversation of standing on the shoulders of giants continues. Appreciate you Elliot!
Many examples on that website are reminiscent of the late-1990s and early 2000s graphic design. It was like "techno design" and designers were inspired by David Carson, Stefan Sagmeister, cyber punk, techno music and Tibor Kalman's "Colors" magazine. Very experimental and everyone was excited to use Photoshop, Illustrator and Quark Express. Even the Xerox machine became a new device for wild creativity. Thanks for sharing your wisdom and the URL.
This is the very same technique that my boss taught me when I was starting my career as a graphic designer. To my surprise, he was from the same era as this guy. This lesson is gold.
Thank you so much for this video Eliott. Deeply insightful and your passion for the discipline clearly shines through. This has been massively helpful in reframing my approach to learning design.
Fantastic video, I’m a junior UX designer and I started by looking at designs and trying to not pick and find things that work or don’t work on the screen… but always felt like I never had my own brand or style of design. Using this as a motivator to push myself to keep trying harder
'Copy everything until you have a key.' 'You borrow the sensibility and develop your taste.' Critical viewing to overlap a customer taste and your taste. 'Copying is the key of death.' Leave it when you have found the keys and develop your taste. Thank you!
You need mileage, you need to build a library of thought processes in creative thinking and problem solving. Then just use it in your own way, let your inner voice speak, and you will be good to go. It's like learning a language, words, phrases, sentences, which you can then use to write poetry.
I’ve been working as UXUI designer for +4 yrs and I don’t have my own path yet. After I watched this videos I processed thought of why I don’t have my own design style but wanting it. The answer was so simple.. I haven’t developed it. Since my career started I only designed for my company not for audiences or users directly. So I just focused on making a result by copying. Finally I’ve been trying to make my own design work and build up my path too. I’ll still do copy but I’ll build up my originality too. This video motivated me keep up my efforts Thank you for the video
OMG. I've never heard this advice anywhere (this is so fresh and yet so timeless) until now and I feel like someone put in words the exact problem I'm having with my design skills. I started copying early on and never developed my own process. And now after so many years, I don't have any confidence in my skills. I believe I never stopped that process and developed that taste for good design. Thank you for this amazing video. Subscribed.
This was so informational! Found this video at the end of my second year in design college when I was feeling a little lost. The "learn to copy and then quit copying" advice really made me think about how I wanna approach my career, since ive always been against copying and was struggling to come up with unique ideas everytime, making me feel like i'm not good enough. Thank you so much for this video, I can finally put this guilt aside and start practising more with more consistency!
Accurate advice I preach to students of motion media design. This advice was also echoed by Miles Davis (I believe): "First, learn everything. Second, forget everything" and also Salvador Dali in his book "50 Secrets to Magic Craftsmanship". If you listen to the podcast "The History of Rock Music in 500 Songs" you'll notice a pattern of musicians doing this process constantly - copy, copy, copy, and then - if strong - not copying.
There were only c.5,000 successfully professional full time designers in NYC in the 80s and I'm talking about ALL designers - advertising, industrial/product, interior, fashion, print etc and they nearly all relied on instinct, mentoring, training, ideas, and cultivated 'taste' - a lot of those skills have been superseded now by research, insight, and the dumbing down of creative tastes because of the democratization of 'creativity' and 'design'. The market wasn't saturated like it is now as there are about 50,000-75,000 in NYC alone these days (based on census statistics). I am not talking about dabblers and hobbyists. Now there are more design COMPANIES in the '20s than there were designers in the '80s in NYC now.
Thank you! Have watched dozens of RUclips graphic design videos. But This One will change the trajectory of my work. Brilliant actionable advice and brilliantly presented. Subscribed!
Oouf!! You're storytelling was a rollercoaster, it really had me going up until the point he ripped his shirt off, and told you the secret. I enjoyed evermommet of it.
Im so glad i found your channel at this time in my life. I’m in my mid 30s, but did graphic design as a teenager. Lately though, I’ve gotten attention from a few people for my illustration and design work. They hired me to design a few business logos. Now I’m thinking it’s time to get back into it
I so greatly appreciate you giving out such invaluable advice for free. I’m so close to finishing my diploma in graphic design and am trying to spend some time building a portfolio of work that sits outside of my lacklustre assessments. This has helped me so much. Thank you!
This is by far one of the best educational videos i've seen about design, and creative stuff - ever. I always had a stigma about copying things, in guitar(music), design - basically anything i try to learn. Everyone talks about plagiarism, that you have to make something unique. But how the hell will you learn, understand and develop your style if you wont copy stuff? Yes books help in understanding simple basic rules, but to be able to create something you are really proud of... I understand that at this point i really dont understand why other designers make certain decisions in their work, and until I will see clear vision of how can i make cool stuff after the task i'm given, there is no point for me to sit in front of empty artboard and tearing my ass of tryng to create something new. Thank you for this, i'll rewatch this video every time i'll get this kind of thoughts in my way, and pardon me for my english, not my native language
Amazing video! I'm looking forward to more content from you. It's really helpful. Thank you! I would love to read a book written by you. Hope you have a great day.
![Jack Harlow - Hello Miss Johnson [Official Music Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q86_nlRoIGw/mqdefault.jpg)
Once I saw the glasses, I knew I could trust this man with my design career. Outstanding advice.
I have to disagree in one point: This ain't a grafic design lesson, this is a life lesson.
Same for character design. Look at designs you like, think about why you like it, try to reacreate it, build a visual library in your brain that you can pull from whatever you want.
Yes. This is how I got some form of grip on character design. I draw characters I find interesting, from other artists and movies
yes, thats what i do/ its the real secret not copying but trying to understand why it worked and the more you do this eventually the hidden language reveals itself.
Same with fine art. Those who think they can find their own unique style without tons of copyright, learning, trying, changing, failing, starting over are just too young to understand how things work.
It's amazing how I found this video at the exact time when it is most useful for me.
Glad it was helpful!
You're aligned.
The algorithm is a hell of a drug.
I agree, both in the realm of graphic design and substance abuse. That last sentiment was so powerful I was taken a back emotionally for a sec… truly what I needed. Thank you
Yasss! I've always said this to designers that I've trained... "Become a good OBSERVER first. Be observant of WHAT looks good and WHY it looks good... then copy every detail of it." Great advice!
As a designer for 30+ years, it's rare to find a client that wants or needs the latest, coolest designs.
Graphic design is built on a foundation of typography which is a conservative practice that needs to be mastered,
Good design communicates.
THANK YOU
I feel it depends on the client. Clients like Nike or Apple want those ultra weird cool designs- cutting edge stuff. But many need those things to percolate in the culture for them to bank on them.
Find a blend of the two. A perfect middle ground is the key! It’s really the goal of innovative art & design.
What’s a cool design? Lmao.
@@jamesnewman48 edgy left of centre, weird, offbeat stuff. The stuff that Its Nice That covers. That works for people who want a very new and fresh aeshetic that has limited use. they want to stand out. A dorling kindersley book may be an example of a more standard design. Whats so funny???
I’m not a graphic designer but that is amazing advice for almost any creative medium. Fascinating stuff
Yeah I thought yt also bought me some random stuff but... was surprised
Man, this was so validating to hear. Three months ago I started a new job working as an in house graphic designer for one of the biggest online retailers in my industry. They had another graphic designer in the past who worked remotely and my supervisor is obsessed with his work. Just today my supervisor goes “I need you to work on something.” And I go to check it out and he goes “Did you make this, you’re not that good to make this.” And he showed a design the previous guy made. I’ve been doing the same method and learning how to copy by projecting his compositions onto my artboards BEFORE watching this video. I felt like I was sinning in design terms, like it wasnt even my work. To be clear I do change it up from his original images different with different color schemes and fonts. But man you have no idea how much turmoil, I’ve been feeling over copying even just the placement of products in an image. I’m on my journey and one day i’ll get it down to be able to compose these images myself. The progress i’ve made in the past few months as an employed GD rather than a hobbyist has been staggeringly different and positive. Thank you for helping me realize that.
And what's funny it's that he probably does the same thing but from a different designer 😂
I feel you
@@jonathangonza exactly lol
I am seeing that many people here are reflecting the advice from this vdeos from their own domains. I would argue that this applies to ALL domains of mastery. The way I've originally came across these ideas through an old Japanese martial art concept called Shu Ha Ri.
Shu - In this beginning stage the student follows the teachings of one master precisely. He concentrates on how to do the task, without worrying too much about the underlying theory. If there are multiple variations on how to do the task, he concentrates on just the one way his master teaches him.
Ha - At this point the student begins to branch out. With the basic practices working he now starts to learn the underlying principles and theory behind the technique. He also starts learning from other masters and integrates that learning into his practice.
Ri - Now the student isn’t learning from other people, but from his own practice. He creates his own approaches and adapts what he’s learned to his own particular circumstances.
the difference is this account was brave enough to say that good design is ass
“You’re going to borrow the sensibility” Wow… thank you for this
Refreshing to see actual advice and not some clickbait diary entry that doesn't give any practical advice like 90% of art videos. Thank you.
For real. I had a feeling this one was gonna be actually useful when I saw it
50 years ago this is exactly what I did to teach myself graphic design. I have no idea why. And now this process is what I share with new designers. Thank you so much for making this video!!!!
Disturbingly strong, true and meaningful words in such a honest manner I've never experienced so far let alone as a free advice from an expert.
All I can do now is to copy another comment:
"It's amazing how I found this video at the exact time when it is most useful for me."
Thank you.
Thanks for taking the time to send positive feedback
The way you say what I’m thinking but can’t find words for has a value that doesn’t have a dollar amount I can honestly give you bless up my guy seriously 💪
Wow… i *really appreciate your kind words and your support. Sincerely 🙏🙏
Absolutely unbelievable message thank you. I’m gonna share this with every creative person I know and take it into my own heart as I am an older designer. I feel like I have the right to be unique and to be unbelievably me.
Thanks for the kind words (stay strong and true)
This is fantastic. I've become a designer backwards - fumbling around as someone with natural artistic ability and eventually getting it right after many, many hours of work. Now I need to systemise my designs to go further, and you've kind of confirmed what I always thought. Start with copying, then expand.
The advice in this video hits me so hard that I had feelings. Knowing so well that this is what I need to hear at this stage of my journey makes me grateful to you.
Powerful Message! For all aspects of creativity! Thank you!!!
You are so welcome
I'm struggling to land a graphic design job because I'm not copying, I'm trying too hard to have my own voice, but you helped me realise that I'm overthinking things and it's easier than i thought, I just have to copy until I become part of the cool designers, land a job, then eventually find my voice, excellent video you earned a new subscriber !!
I think that what many people don't realize is that before you can get your own voice, first you have to realize that, no matter how original you aspire to be, you don't live in a vacuum. You live in a certain culture, you’re surrounded and exposed to a lot of creation, contemporary and past. There’s always a context.
It's been said over and over again „there's nothing new under the sun”. But at the same time out of all of these not-new-things you can assemble something new by re-imagining and reinterpreting all those influences and your experiences into something new, after all. But the starting point is realizing - and, more importantly, accepting - okay this is not ground zero, there have been a ton of people already doing this and if I deliberately turn my back on their work, I'm just being ignorant.
Same like with breaking rules, you need to learn them first to gracefully break them - but if you break them without even realizing they’re there, you're just an ignorant amateur, unless you’re a true prodigy, perhaps? Then again, even prodigies need to do their work and talent is overrated - ultimately it’s the work that counts.
Good luck!
First, loved your story...maybe because I worked in NYC in the 80s and was totally intimidated but directed. I worked in publishing in the photo department of magazines and worked my way up to being a director of photography...I worked with Fred Woodward at Rolling Stone for a few years. For me the same sort of practice -- copying -- was so common in photography. Young photographers would work with famous and talented and in demand photographers, leave the studio and look like a weak version of the person they assisted. The good ones would very quickly jettison their old bosses' techniques or style and create something unique for themselves. It honestly was thrilling to see someone leave a studio and in as little as a few months create their own personal way of shooting. (btw, I have been a commercial photographer for years and I hope my work can at least look like mine vs other photographers I admired...!)
It's important to remember that true mastery comes from not just emulating but also evolving past those influences to forge a distinct creative identity 🎨.
So right! Everything is gonna change, everything stays the same.
OK I found a new Design teacher. No nonsense straight to the point.
I wish I had heard this sooner, but I guess you receive the right advice whenever you are ready to receive it.
This is one of the best YT videos I ve seen. Powerful, and driven to attain the highest ideal. Well done, IMO.
This tip might seem simple at first, but it's incredibly powerful for new designers and those exploring new mediums. I've helped a few designers transition from graphic design to UI, and the biggest challenge is often their lack of a strong repertoire. Thank you for sharing this, Elliot! :)
Yes - that’s what I did. And I copied anything - better homes and garden or Swiss poster stuff. It helped me know what type sizes worked, what different margins did, colors, etc. I took that knowledge and applied to my work. No copying but using the technical specs-small type is good 8pt or whatever. When you learn to play an instrument you play cover songs. It’s the same idea. Great lesson!
And you don’t need school for that.
I actually spent 10 years in various fields struggling, spending countless hours making something and getting frustrated and depressed, until I realized I should just simply copy and make it my own...
I have been in the design field for almost 20 years-currently working as a creative director. This message resonates 110% with me. Any designer new or old who is struggling: force yourself to embrace what is taught here and put in the time to understand these ideas. You have decades of master works to use in this process. You can start now, for free. The only question left is whether you have the resolve and focus to commit and see the process completely and thoroughly through. Bravo!
I’m a self learning guy with only an associates. Every day I do at least 2 design projects and watch college grade free courses. I’ve been doing this daily for a year and a half, I appreciate people like you and the poster for helping! I’ve tried the method of sending my portfolio and asking for 5 minutes of advice and only a couple have answered. How could I learn more from people like yourself? Thanks!
Holy 🐄 this video encapsulates ever reason I love RUclips learning ! One for posterity 🙌 thank you 🙏
Thank you so much for the valuable advice. I was trapped in a loop of perfectionism and procrastination. I buried myself in endless lists of books and courses that I felt I had to study and ended up feeling overwhelmed and frustrated because it all seemed impossible and pointless. Then, I stumbled upon this video on RUclips. It came at just the right moment when I needed it the most.❤
You're so welcome!
Totally agree with everything said. It took me 10 years to reach this mindset on my own, but you wrapped it up with concision.
You collect your bag of tricks through copying and mimicry, but eventually you reach the stage of synthesis where you get to put it all together into something completely unique.
I found your description of a magazine hilarious.
This is great. It also reminds me of Austin Kleon's advice in Steal Like an Artist.
I love that book, great video indeed
That got intense at the end. Well done. Great advice.
Excellent, I now know what a magazine is.
But seriously, it was a great video. It was very informative.
That last point was really crucial. I'm an illustrator starting out learning about graphic design. I was thinking "They all look so similar" before you even mentioned it. This is why I always go back into history for inspiration instead of trying to adhere to the cultural zeitgeist.
Just came across your channel, Wow! I wish I found you earlier. I'm a graphic designer who has 5 years of WOE and I often lack creative direction to make good design, just scroll around in Dribbble and Behance. I felt guilty about copying other designer's work but now I have the guts to push myself and keep your warning in mind as well. Copy the work I aspire to feed myself and walk away for a bit to become an excellent designer.
I don't know much about print design - I'm a filmmaker - but I know that advice is universal and extremely effective. I also really appreciated how good it was to hear a direct unvarnished call to value your originality, be an individualist, don't be driven by conformity to the norm and approval of the in-group but cut your own path. That is a sentiment that today is frequently taboo or poorly received. Maybe it always has been...
Totally agree!
You do the same with Feldenkrais movement lessons, which are notoriously difficult to understand for the first 10 years or so. Only difference to design is, however, that there’s very little money in it and almost nobody will understand what you’re doing or grasp the significance of it in the slightest. 😅 Those who do, though, will find it a blessing
Thank you for ❤ing my comment. I apologise that I, as so many other commenters, replied with my experience and sentiment evoked by your speech, rather than praising and highlighting my favourite sections of your video. However, I think this in itself speaks for the strong impact you had here on your viewers.
Making up, I especially liked the sharing of your story of visiting 10-minute mentors in New York you as a 18yo aspiring artist; the wrapping up of the purpose of copying at 9:21 and the powerful ending and life advise, of walking away.
In my art (somatic education) I think many confuse being scholars of a single mentor, Moshe Feldenkrais (which is made almost impossible due to the ridiculous business choices of the copyright holders) and being an original artist, teacher, practitioner.
I think this might be true for many other fields, where historically growth was only possible within tight hierarchies and institutions… such as writing and poetry. It might still be true for professions such as being a midwife or Gp doctor. But times are changing.
Ed was spot on - there's a key synthesis of internalizing aspirational work. Much like an undergrad might need to be taught the key formal art tenets and approach only to throw them away in grad school or in the process discovering ones voice. It's funny to reflect on the corollary of apprenticeship approaches - prior to any higher learning personally being involved art such as graff meant you sucked for a long time. You were a "Toy." Another writer/mentor might "skool" you. You copy, you get to see the "kings" and try to recreate their works. Soon the friends and heroes work combined with the repetitive nature and your own taste would lead to something wholly new. And that grand conversation of standing on the shoulders of giants continues. Appreciate you Elliot!
Thank you for making this video. It’s super helpful for an aspiring and self taught graphic designer. Going to binge all your vids!!!
I believe this process can be applied to any creative endeavour. I’m glad I found this video.
My first video, but I am hooked! Not a designer, but someone looking to understand good design better. Subscribed!
Awesome, thank you!
Thank you❤
Many examples on that website are reminiscent of the late-1990s and early 2000s graphic design. It was like "techno design" and designers were inspired by David Carson, Stefan Sagmeister, cyber punk, techno music and Tibor Kalman's "Colors" magazine. Very experimental and everyone was excited to use Photoshop, Illustrator and Quark Express. Even the Xerox machine became a new device for wild creativity. Thanks for sharing your wisdom and the URL.
…Neville Brody, Vaughn Oliver… 90s the old good times
Powerful lesson, thanks so much! God, I needed to hear this when I was on the first year of college instead of "Feel the paper feelings" hahaha
Well done, sir. Super-engaging. A masterclass in RUclips authenticity
Thanks for saying so
This is the kind of editing i like! Thanks for making it simple and easy to understand.. ❤
I won't get into any personal details, but this recommendation was what my soul needed to be creative again.
I’m glad I could help
This is the very same technique that my boss taught me when I was starting my career as a graphic designer. To my surprise, he was from the same era as this guy. This lesson is gold.
Thank you so much for this video Eliott. Deeply insightful and your passion for the discipline clearly shines through. This has been massively helpful in reframing my approach to learning design.
First time I’m hearing someone give actual detailed advice that’s practical. Not some generic vague advice like some Tutorials.
I love u man - thankyou for your honest advice and your keen understanding of design, looking forward for more videos like these!
Fantastic video, I’m a junior UX designer and I started by looking at designs and trying to not pick and find things that work or don’t work on the screen… but always felt like I never had my own brand or style of design. Using this as a motivator to push myself to keep trying harder
you’re like that cool uncle that give advices i didn’t know i needed
nah bro, now you got me thinking about my current process, THANK YOU!
'Copy everything until you have a key.'
'You borrow the sensibility and develop your taste.'
Critical viewing to overlap a customer taste and your taste.
'Copying is the key of death.' Leave it when you have found the keys and develop your taste. Thank you!
One single video had never made me subscribe to a channel, turns out there's first time for everything 😍😍
You need mileage, you need to build a library of thought processes in creative thinking and problem solving. Then just use it in your own way, let your inner voice speak, and you will be good to go. It's like learning a language, words, phrases, sentences, which you can then use to write poetry.
Notes taken. Thanks for this excellent video! ❤
I’ve been working as UXUI designer for +4 yrs and I don’t have my own path yet.
After I watched this videos I processed thought of why I don’t have my own design style but wanting it.
The answer was so simple.. I haven’t developed it.
Since my career started I only designed for my company not for audiences or users directly. So I just focused on making a result by copying.
Finally I’ve been trying to make my own design work and build up my path too. I’ll still do copy but I’ll build up my originality too.
This video motivated me keep up my efforts
Thank you for the video
One of the best videos about design I have seen in a very very long time. Thank you!
OMG. I've never heard this advice anywhere (this is so fresh and yet so timeless) until now and I feel like someone put in words the exact problem I'm having with my design skills.
I started copying early on and never developed my own process. And now after so many years, I don't have any confidence in my skills.
I believe I never stopped that process and developed that taste for good design.
Thank you for this amazing video.
Subscribed.
This was so informational! Found this video at the end of my second year in design college when I was feeling a little lost. The "learn to copy and then quit copying" advice really made me think about how I wanna approach my career, since ive always been against copying and was struggling to come up with unique ideas everytime, making me feel like i'm not good enough. Thank you so much for this video, I can finally put this guilt aside and start practising more with more consistency!
Best advice I’ve heard. Thanks for including actual action points and the fair warning to top it off 🍻
omg im so f-ing grateful i found your channel 🙏
Accurate advice I preach to students of motion media design.
This advice was also echoed by Miles Davis (I believe): "First, learn everything. Second, forget everything"
and also Salvador Dali in his book "50 Secrets to Magic Craftsmanship".
If you listen to the podcast "The History of Rock Music in 500 Songs" you'll notice a pattern of musicians doing this process constantly - copy, copy, copy, and then - if strong - not copying.
Killer
I’m 3 weeks into my internship,
I needed to see this.
Wow, Thank you
You’re welcome
Subscribed, saves me a trip to London design studios to hear the same advice, thanks
Wow! Wish I could have heard this advice at 24! 36 now, never too late. Great stuff here! Thank you!
There were only c.5,000 successfully professional full time designers in NYC in the 80s and I'm talking about ALL designers - advertising, industrial/product, interior, fashion, print etc and they nearly all relied on instinct, mentoring, training, ideas, and cultivated 'taste' - a lot of those skills have been superseded now by research, insight, and the dumbing down of creative tastes because of the democratization of 'creativity' and 'design'. The market wasn't saturated like it is now as there are about 50,000-75,000 in NYC alone these days (based on census statistics). I am not talking about dabblers and hobbyists. Now there are more design COMPANIES in the '20s than there were designers in the '80s in NYC now.
Thank you! Have watched dozens of RUclips graphic design videos. But This One will change the trajectory of my work. Brilliant actionable advice and brilliantly presented. Subscribed!
As a game designer, this wisdom applies perfectly. A lovely video to come across.
This is timely for me, at a time when I'm struggling with learning illustration design. Thank you.
This is great. Truly. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience.
Glad it was helpful!
Just came across your video. Excellent advice! And you can apply this to music, show creation, interior design, etc. Kudos!
amazing as always
Couldn't agree more! Same goes for UI design for games. "Learn to copy and then Stop copying". Thank you!
Your presentation is like attending a panel at some of trade convention. I love it!
Oouf!! You're storytelling was a rollercoaster, it really had me going up until the point he ripped his shirt off, and told you the secret. I enjoyed evermommet of it.
Really love the stories of the past with names and personas. Itmakes it feel alive, give me sense of continuity of the world.
Amazing video. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
Best graphic design video, thank you
Im so glad i found your channel at this time in my life. I’m in my mid 30s, but did graphic design as a teenager. Lately though, I’ve gotten attention from a few people for my illustration and design work. They hired me to design a few business logos. Now I’m thinking it’s time to get back into it
I literally stumbled on this video, and all I can say is holy shit! This advice is top-shelf and life changing.
im not a designer. i love design. this was GREAT. gracias.
I love how you describe what a magazine is just in case we from gen-Z don't know what it is
Phenomenal story telling, excellent advice. I really enjoyed this video!
Thanks for the feedback
you really put that style into words, in ways that I've been unable to truly formulate
Pithy, inspirational, practical. Awesome!
I so greatly appreciate you giving out such invaluable advice for free. I’m so close to finishing my diploma in graphic design and am trying to spend some time building a portfolio of work that sits outside of my lacklustre assessments. This has helped me so much. Thank you!
This logic applies in almost every art thank you for making this video
This is by far one of the best educational videos i've seen about design, and creative stuff - ever. I always had a stigma about copying things, in guitar(music), design - basically anything i try to learn. Everyone talks about plagiarism, that you have to make something unique. But how the hell will you learn, understand and develop your style if you wont copy stuff? Yes books help in understanding simple basic rules, but to be able to create something you are really proud of... I understand that at this point i really dont understand why other designers make certain decisions in their work, and until I will see clear vision of how can i make cool stuff after the task i'm given, there is no point for me to sit in front of empty artboard and tearing my ass of tryng to create something new. Thank you for this, i'll rewatch this video every time i'll get this kind of thoughts in my way, and pardon me for my english, not my native language
🙏
Amazing video! I'm looking forward to more content from you. It's really helpful. Thank you! I would love to read a book written by you. Hope you have a great day.
I don't think that I'm able to thank you enough for this (life) lesson, but I'll try:
thank you.
Thank you for your advice.
This is gold - so valuable advice. Thank you so much
Glad it was helpful!
Amazing. Straight, hard truth. Thank you.
second half goes crazy , that ending is bars