UPSTNY Member Interview | Michele Cooper

Michele Cooper, design partner for Cooper Graphic Design, is interviewed by fellow member Leah Rico.

What prompted you to start your own business?
I was working as an art director at a brand agency and my husband had just graduated from the MFA program at Tyler School of Art. I was looking for another position and/or a change. We were both already working on a decent amount of freelance work and thought it made more sense to pair up and start a studio. It's been ideal ever since!

What inspires you?
Literally and simply everything around me. Walking to the train station, listening to music, watching people interact with items in a store or just walking around the city, watching documentaries or movies about inspirational people and circumstances, etc. My surroundings are a constant source of inspiration. You never know when an every day observation may become relevant. As a graphic designer, I'm required to understand different perspectives and translate those into relevant communication. Therefore, observing and understanding situations outside of my immediate experience is an important part of my process.

What challenges do you feel designers that are minorities face in this field? How do you feel designers should address these challenges?
Minority designers may have problems identifying their culture in their work and/or finding a good balance. I actually think minority designers shouldn't focus on those challenges or even the issues around being a minority (segregation, bigotry, racism, required inclusion), but instead focus on bringing their perspective to their work. It doesn't need to be blatant. Just as any designer translates communication visually, a designer from another culture will bring their unique experiences to a project. It is so important to have as many different perspectives represented in our industry. The more perspectives our industry can represent, the more relevant our power as communicators becomes.

What would your top piece of advice be for a designer who is just getting started in the industry?
Be true to yourself. Being a designer isn't always about designing pretty things. Good design also requires an interest in thinking strategically. So, realize where your strengths and weaknesses lie within the industry and work with them. Also, your success as a designer really depends on your ability to be a well-rounded person. So, get out there and absorb.

In what way does being a part of AIGA enhance your career being a designer?
It's been a wonderful source of community for me. I've found a true sense of support in my fellow AIGA members - locally and nationally. You definitely get what you put into AIGA. So, I always recommend for designers who are not involved, at least join a committee. Being involved has given me the opportunity to hone my leadership skills and I believe that translates into becoming a better business owner.

Posted by newyorkupstate in Member Interview | December 26, 2009