Cultivating Creativity: An Interview with Mr. DiGioacchino
Mr. DiGioacchino challenges his students to see the world in a creative and visual light. Through courses like Logo Design and Branding, he uses technology in unique and innovative ways and inspires his students to do the same. In this interview, Mr. D tells Bear Hub about his experiences this year.
Check out sample logos from Logo Design and Branding students! (Courtesy of Mr. DiGioacchino)
January 29, 2021
Q: WHAT’S THE CLASS YOU’VE ENJOYED TEACHING THE MOST THIS YEAR?
A: Logo Design and Branding. It’s one of those classes that’s relatively new; we just started it a few years ago. It’s constantly evolving and we’re doing different things. And it’s one of those ever-changing classes, which keeps it interesting.
Q: WHAT’S THE MOST MEMORABLE ACTIVITY YOU’VE DONE IN LOGO DESIGN AND BRANDING DURING DISTANCE LEARNING?
A: The second project, which we’re currently working on right now. We’re redesigning a logo for a local business or just a logo that the students felt was bad. So, a lot of kids pick local businesses. I enjoy seeing students A) finding the business that they think needs a revamp of their logo and B) seeing what approaches they take. It’s always cool to see students flesh out these ideas.
Q: HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THIS IDEA?
A: When we first started doing the course, I was trying to figure out different projects that we could do. Constantly on my way to work, I saw all kinds of trucks for plumbers and contractors. I would just laugh at them. They were so bad that if it were safe, I would stop and take a picture of it so that I could show it to my students. So, just seeing a ton of bad logos at restaurants and stuff inspired me to make this project.
Q: WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT TEACHING LOGO DESIGN AND BRANDING IN PERSON?
A: Just being able to see the kids’ progress. It’s really hard in an art class to offer feedback at an acceptable rate. I can’t see what kids are working on and offer immediate feedback. I definitely miss that interaction, and it makes my job easier and the kids’ job better when we’re in person. Not to mention the fact that we don’t use Illustrator or InDesign. We’re stuck using the free online alternatives, which are not as good and we can’t do as much on them.
Logos represent our identities and values; they leave lasting impressions on everyone who views them. With each project, Mr. D’s Logo Design and Branding students learn the skills and techniques needed to make the world more aesthetically pleasing in their own ways.
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