Farmidable Contributer: Robert Burch

I needed a hat and a pair of kicks. I hadn’t brought either with us on our trip to San Diego and we were headed to the desert for a day of hiking. Marshalls saves the day! I found just what I needed, a hip pair of Pumas and this madras “old style” cap. I figured I looked pretty spiffy in the hat and not only wore it to the desert but all the rest of our trip. (and right now)

When I got home I wore the hat to work. Everyone complimented that they liked it and thought it was appropriate looking on me. I was feeling pretty good about myself. Though wearing a hat at work is against the dress code my boss didn’t even bat an eye. I’ve noticed everyone started paying more attention to me. Especially when putting the hat on or taking it off. So far it hasn’t failed. I reach for the hat bend my head down to put it on and when I look up everyone is looking at me with amazement. Like I was just one person and then all of the sudden I’m a different person. Someone they want to hang out with maybe? I’ve even noticed that on my ride to and from work the toll takers have been nicer.

So what gives? Well it’s the power of design. Looks matter. We have stereotypes and design is based on them. Combined design disciplines and how you organize them in life reflects who you are and who you want to be. Of course I’m a likable, look at my hat. Of course I’m a designer/illustrator, look at my glasses! Of course I like indie music, look at my green spring jacket and sideburns! Let’s go to a contemporary art museum, or maybe take pictures in front of a courtyard fountain so that the water is blowing out of the top of my head.

Let’s sum up. You are what you put around you and chances are you’re at a computer quite a bit. Shouldn’t you have a desktop wallpaper that fits who you are and wish you were? Me, I’m a Farmidable Dumplings pattern man, but maybe you’re more of a Pine Boughs or a Wood Block Print. Either way you’ll find what you’re looking for in our gallery.