Rick Griffith, a British-West-Indian designer and letterpress printer, shares insights from his creative journey and his design consultancy MATTER. He discusses the social challenges in the creative field, particularly issues of racism and sexism. Griffith reflects on how literature shaped his youth and fueled his passion for design. He emphasizes the importance of intentional curation in fostering community and creativity. Moreover, he highlights his journey as a letterpress activist, advocating for social change while navigating the complexities of identity and empowerment.
Rick Griffith highlights how ambition and creativity are often obstructed by systemic racism and sexism, revealing emotional challenges in marginalized communities.
The role of literature in shaping identity and providing hope is emphasized as a powerful means for personal growth and communal connection.
Deep dives
The Impact of Ambition on Identity
The pursuit of ambition often intersects with the experiences of racism and sexism, as highlighted by personal reflections on the barriers faced when expressing one's aspirations. Ambition tends to reveal systemic obstacles that individuals of marginalized backgrounds confront as they strive for success. This assertion underscores the emotional toll that societal prejudices take on those in creative fields looking to advance their careers. Recognition of these challenges sparks a broader conversation about the necessity for societal evolution towards greater empathy and understanding.
Literature as an Anchor in Life
Literature plays a pivotal role in providing solace and hope amidst personal challenges and societal struggles. The conversation reflects on childhood experiences with classic literary works, particularly those of Dickens and Brontë, which offered a sense of belonging and a path to understanding one's identity. As stories unfold, characters offer a connection that reassures individuals they are not alone in their difficulties, allowing them to envision a more promising future. This relationship with literature cultivates a deep appreciation for storytelling as a vehicle for personal and communal growth.
Building Meaningful Client Relationships
Long-lasting client relationships in creative industries are founded on mutual knowledge sharing and genuine interest in each other's work. The importance of being a 'method designer' entails immersing oneself in the client's world and cultivating a shared passion for their mission. Successful partnerships foster an environment where both parties can grow through shared interests and trust, allowing collaborative efforts to flourish over decades. The dialogue emphasizes how such bonds enhance the creative process, turning clients into collaborators and benefactors in the artistic journey.
Activism Through Design and Printmaking
The integration of activism in design is exemplified through the practice of letterpress printing, which serves as a medium for expressing social justice themes. The shift from striving to be the best designer to engaging in crucial conversations about societal issues illustrates a profound transformation in understanding design's role. By addressing the complexities of identity, race, and personal struggle, the act of printing becomes a form of resistance against systemic injustices. This practice reinforces the belief that creativity can be a powerful tool for activism, amplifying voices that challenge the status quo.
Rick Griffith is a British-West-Indian designer, collagist, writer, educator, letterpress printer, and optimist futurist. He joins live from the HOW Design Conference to discuss his career and MATTER—a design consultancy, letterpress/typography workshop, and retail bookstore he runs with his partner, Debra Johnson.