The Cooper-Hewitt NYC Teen Design Fair is an opportunity for young designers to meet with some of the best designers out there. It is truly a great experience and anyone who attends this spectacular event is more than privileged to be hearing techniques, strategies and most importantly, advice from each of the different names that are interested in various types of design. Although, this is important, I want to personally emphasize the effect that the teen design fair had on me and my fellow teen designers. One must see the fair through the eyes of a teenager.
So I would like to first pull your attention to the atmosphere. When I first walked into the space, I could not help but feel welcomed. The energy created by the designers and staff were absolutely amazing. I don't think I even need to mention how excited we were to meet our spokesperson, Tim Gunn. Everybody had a big smile on their face and you can see how much these designers loved what they do, whether it's working in the fields of fashion, industrial design, graphic, communication, landscape, or architecture. One cannot help but be influenced by their passion.
Secondly, the image they gave to us was important but the words that were being spoken were crucial. As the teenagers went from one table to another it was obvious that they were liking what they were hearing and we were all hungry for more wisdom that came from these designers. For example, we watched as Tim Gunn, America's most popular fashion consultant and television personality, gave us advice. His words were so inspirational that he left the audience, both teens and designers, touched by his words. I could never forget when a young adult in the room asked for his motivation, and he answered that he never would have guessed he would be where he is today. He also stated " The world doesn't owe you anything." In other words, he said that we need to work hard for what we want in life, and things are never just handed to someone without their handwork and dedication.
As I walked around, I saw and heard that people had similar experiences as me. They were all looking forward to becoming a part of the design industry once and for all. Although this was a big event, it had a bigger significance in each of the teens' point of view on design. It was a learning and involved experience. In the eyes of a teen, this is one of the forces that drive us to be a better designers, better communicators and just better people.
I got to shake hands with Tim Gunn at the Cooper-Hewitt Teen Design Fair!