I was recently reminded about Hip-Hop Superstar; Kanye West's "Pastelle" clothing line. Please note that I did not call him a “designer.” I'll admit that shortly after seeing the garments, I went into “hater” mode. This wasn't because I was jealous, but because I think of how this title is often unwarranted and unearned.

A few years ago when Kanye attempted to launch Pastelle, he recruited some of streetwear’s finest minds to provide creative input. There ended up being too many cooks in the kitchen and the line never went anywhere (RIP Pastelle). Design is about thinking, conceptualization, execution  and most importantly- YOUR OWN point of view. That’s partially why I feel that if you need a think tank before launching “your vision"- you shouldn't be called a designer.  

Why is it ok to label someone a “designer” when they don’t have formal training or experience? Shouldn't there be a test before you receive the title?  We don’t call people doctors because they can wrap your ankle in an ace bandage or because they hand you paxil when you are depressed. Lawyers & Doctors are looked at with such prestige because those are professions that require a sign off by a committee or governing body. The joke goes "What do you call someone who finishes last in med school? - A doctor.” Well at least they finished something. Do you know what they call the pothead working at the local Copymat that's making business cards in Microsoft Word? Or the teenager with puff-paint, a Bedazzler and 12 American Apparel t-shirts? A designer! WTF?

The bigger point is- every craft has intricacies that the untrained eye doesn't understand. Ignorance isn’t just “bliss”… It’s also called “ignorance.” Every one has ideas, but how you execute them is what warrants the "designer" title. With technology being so accessible it makes the process seem simple, but a computer program can't make up for what you don’t know! Adobe can’t tell you the difference between a woven and a knit. These are just tools, how you use and understand them is the real skill. 

What is your take on all of this?  Please leave your feedback in the comments area...

- Sidney

 pt.2 tomorrow*

Sidney Deane is our local, loud-mouthed, trash talking designer! His point of view comes from 10+ years working in the industry as a creative director, consultant and enthusiastic sports fan! He'll be bringing you all of his rants each & every month- so stay on the lookout for more.