Learn more about Tom at https://www.tparkes.com

Learn more about the podcast at https://jackvaughan.com

Today I’m speaking with Tom Parkes - a Web+Brand designer.

Tom’s worked at both agencies such as Instrument, Justified Studio, MetaLab, and freelanced for companies such as Airbnb, Microsoft and he’s now at Glide - where I work - leading web & brand.

We talked about many things like:

The activity and craft of design
Sensitivity and receptivity to design and art.
Design in agencies versus in-house.
The difference between art and design
how design is merging with motion
And of course, much, much more.

Summary (AI Generated)

In this conversation, Jack Vaughan speaks with Tom Parkes, a web and brand designer, about his journey in design, the evolution from graphic design to visual communication, and the importance of sensitivity and emotional connection in the design process. They discuss the role of typography, the impact of university experiences, and the balance between trends and timelessness in design. Tom shares insights on the significance of communication in design and how it shapes the designer’s approach to their work. In this conversation, Tom discusses the intricacies of branding and design, emphasizing the importance of presentation, critique, and the separation of personal identity from work. He introduces his ‘Holy Trinity’ of design process, which includes context, empathy, and execution. The dialogue explores the balance between art and design, the evolution of digital design, and the significance of brand strategy. Tom reflects on the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in design, advocating for a thoughtful approach to integrating new technologies while maintaining the essence of creativity.

Chapters (AI Generated)

00:00 The Evolution of Design Terminology

05:44 Navigating Design Education and Personal Growth

13:45 The Emotional Connection to Design

19:42 Sensitivity and Vulnerability in Creativity

29:38 Staying Relevant in Design Trends

37:12 The Essence of Timeless Design

39:49 The Evolution of Branding

43:26 The Art of Communication in Design

54:23 Tom’s Holy Trinity of Design Process

58:02 The Intersection of Art and Design

01:06:38 Navigating the Balance of Web and Brand Design

01:07:13 The Evolution of Brand Strategy in Design

01:11:59 The Intersection of Design and Development

01:16:24 Reflections on Product Design vs. Brand Design

01:19:13 Creating Synchronicity Between Brand and Product

01:22:10 Systems Thinking in Design

01:25:59 The Importance of Brand Strategy in Design

01:30:44 The Future of Design in the Age of AI

01:39:13 New Chapter

Tom Parkes | Web & Brand, Design as Art, Communication, Sensitivity & Receptivity