I was also interested in the idea of irreconcilable differences and how two extremes could be combined into a coherent whole. As an example, I looked for the most beautiful typeface in the history of typography—as well as the ugliest one—and for a way to meld them.

Chances are you’re more than familiar with the “traditional” eight-hour workday. While it may be arguably one of the most common rituals throughout society, it’s not necessarily the most productive one. In fact, hardly any of history’s greatest minds adhered to this ideal. The lesson here is not to quit your day job, but to learn how to work around it to maximize your creativity.

I’m sure many of us know at least one person who’s paused in awe on their five- or ten-year anniversary at a company and wondered aloud, “How have I been here so long without realizing it?” We often live with blinders on, looking straight ahead for long periods of time without so much as glancing around us.

The distinguished AIGA Medal is awarded to individuals in recognition of their exceptional achievements in the field of design.

AIGA’s design community will gather in New York City for a celebration honoring the 2015 AIGA Medalists and supporting national design initiatives.

As the largest professional association of designers in the world, AIGA is committed to advancing the value and impact of design, both locally and globally, and working together to inspire, support and learn from each other, at every stage of our careers. Whether you're an established designer looking to give back or a student just starting out, there's a membership level for you.

Take advantage of the many benefits that come with being an AIGA member: savings, information, community, inspiration and more.

This film will allow designers of my generation and after, to learn about how it all worked before computers, and it will serve to honor the folks who made that transition from hand to digital, for their experience and skills that most designers and illustrators will never know again.

Design Jobs is an exclusive job board for AIGA members. Look here to find your next design job—or design hire!