A good Balance

I had a great weekend in Napier at the The Balance Symposium at the Hawkes Bay Museum and Gallery.

After an indulgent Friday night and welcoming party, I was a little jaded on Saturday morning. After a last minute change to my intended format - mainly due to PowerPoint 2007 not having a presenter tools option, I got through my presentation, receiving positive feedback after from members of the audience and other presenters.

There were some really interesting individuals there, including the keynotes, Robert Foster and Grettle Harrison of Fink & Co. Robert and Grettle talked about their work and running a business, showing some really innovative production techniques and objects which they explored years earlier than many in Europe (explosive forming, high-pressure forming etc.)

Other designers such as Marc Harrison of Husque, Katy Wallace and David Trubridge all raised pertinent points and gave insight about how to best operate as a New Zealand designer domestically and on the world stage.

On the second day there was a design challenge related to the 'Plyability' exhibition which required participants to imagine new directions for plywood. I was very proud to have 2 students in the groups taking first and second place, so congratulations to Chris and James.

I was looked after by the Museum staff for the rest of the day (thanks Pam, Lucy, Eloise and Douglas for a great weekend) and left for Wellington with a giant comedy cheque and a present of a Fink 'Coolamon' from the lovely Aussie couple.

Here are the main points I took from the weekend.

_(as many of us know)To be a successful designer, in New Zealand, and elsewhere, takes hard-work, dedication passion and commitment - it's not handed to you on a plate.

_Start locally, and then success will begin to resonate nationally and internationally.

_Always look for new project opportunities and be flexible in your approach.

_Collaborate - but make sure you have a goal, recognise your weaknesses, and don't be afraid to end the project if it's not working.

_Use any opportunity you can (such as symposia!) to build relationships, extend your network and communicate and share your experiences.

_If it's not your field - then use a good graphic designer!