My son has recently started high school and so a new level of homework starts. We have to "help" with subjects I had long since forgotten about…! 

We got on to safer ground with Art Homework! Leonardo Da Vinci was the first artist to study. To be able to investigate, share and revisit one of the finest renaissance artists with my son was wonderful. My memories of Art History lessons were rekindled. At the time, you don't "get it", but as you learn, you understand that you need to know what has gone before...  

However, the next artist, Albrecht Durer, prompted the question,"who?" So we researched together and I enjoyed discovering some stunningly accurate watercolours and I particularly admired his woodcuts and engravings. So it goes to show, after (what felt like!) years of Art History, you never stop learning! Future topics for Art homework include Impressionism, Cubism, Pop Art... So we will see what new things we learn and maybe inspire us... Maybe my favourite - Caravaggio might crop up, although he is a little brutal for young eyes, but oh the light effects!

Which led me to think about the word "inspiration".  What is inspiration? As a designer, I am constantly looking at visual ideas. I simply can't switch off, I can't stop looking at things through a designer’s eyes! Inspiration comes from the most unexpected places doodles and sketches, book covers, magazines, typography, packaging, obscure graphics, mood boards, Google images is a treasure trove of visual "stuff" but often the subtle, small things "inspire" and it's recognising them when you see them!

Some of the designers and typographers I particularly enjoy are: Paul Rand, Saul Bass, Neville Brody and some of the work by Peter Saville (such as the sandpaper album cover and iconic designs for The Haçienda and Factory records). Tell me who is your favourite artist or designer, so we can share and can keep learning...