INSPIRATION
Give them their flowers
To all the inspiration
that brought me here, I am truly thankful for your being.
Israël, Palestine 2007
JR
In 2007, JR and Marco launched the Face 2 Face project, the largest illegal photography exhibition, featuring monumental portraits of Israelis and Palestinians displayed side by side on the wall and in various cities. They aimed to understand the conflict, realizing that both groups share striking similarities, like twin brothers from different families. By visually confronting them, they hoped to foster recognition and understanding between the two communities.
Candy Chang
Candy Chang is an inspiring artist and designer known for her impactful public art projects that promote community engagement and reflection. Growing up in New Orleans to Taiwanese immigrants, she merges her cultural heritage with a deep understanding of urban spaces, using art to foster connection. As the first Asian American artist I encountered, her work has profoundly influenced me, revealing the power of art to address complex issues and motivating me to explore my own identity and community through creative expression.
Confessions 2012-2020
Candy Chang
"Confessions" by Candy Chang is an inspiring project that invites people to anonymously share their thoughts on public walls, fostering community and connection. By transforming everyday spaces into platforms for self-expression, Chang empowers individuals to confront their emotions and share their stories. This project highlights the power of openness and encourages reflection on our own lives and the shared human experience.
Schiaparelli
Schiaparelli is an inspiring brand celebrated for its daring creativity and intricate designs that blend art and fashion. Drawing inspiration from Surrealism and the avant-garde, the brand features bold colors, unexpected shapes, and elaborate embellishments that challenge traditional fashion norms. Schiaparelli’s commitment to craftsmanship is evident in its detailed designs, which often incorporate playful elements and innovative techniques. This unique approach not only redefines luxury but also encourages self-expression, making Schiaparelli a trailblazer in the fashion industry.
Bobby Lee
Bobby Lee is a groundbreaking comedian who has inspired many by challenging stereotypes and expanding Asian American representation in comedy. Watching him through Mad TV As one of the first prominent Asian American stand-up comedians, he uses humor to confront cultural biases and highlight the diversity of Asian experiences. His unique style and candid storytelling pave the way for future comedians.
Milk Made 2014
I remember walking through a Macy’s department store when something stopped me in my tracks—a booth for Milk Made. Their branding was unlike anything I’d seen before, bold and captivating, with a modern edge that made me see design in an entirely new way. I stood there, mesmerized, feeling like my perspective on the world had just shifted. The experience stuck with me so much that when I got home, I dove into researching branding and learned more about Milk Made. That moment sparked a newfound appreciation for the power of visual identity and its ability to transform how we see things.
Before I Die (2011-Present)
Candy Chang
"Before I Die" by Candy Chang is an impactful public art project that invites individuals to reflect on their lives by writing their aspirations and regrets on a chalkboard wall. When I encountered this project as a college freshman, it was the first experiential art installation I had ever seen, and it profoundly inspired me. The openness and vulnerability of the messages created a sense of community and connection among strangers, encouraging me to think deeply about my own goals and mortality. This project sparked my passion for interactive art and its power to foster meaningful conversations and personal reflection.
Andy Warhol
I’ve always loved Andy Warhol for his bold, in-your-face art, which feels so striking coming from a man who seemed so gentle and soft-spoken. Visiting the Detroit Institute of Arts (DIA), my first museum experience, I was completely mesmerized by his work. The vibrant color choices, the repetition of iconic images—everything felt larger than life yet so approachable. Warhol’s ability to make the everyday extraordinary through his bold visuals left a lasting impression on me, and that visit deepened my admiration for his fearless creativity.
The Hidden World Of Plant Intelligence Climate journalist Zoë Schlanger
Listening to the NPR podcast The Hidden World of Plant Intelligence by climate journalist Zoë Schlanger was incredibly inspiring. The episode revealed the fascinating, unseen ways plants communicate and adapt to their environments, something I had never considered before. It completely transformed my perspective on plants and nature, making me realize how interconnected and intelligent the natural world truly is. Schlanger’s insights opened my eyes to the depth and complexity of plant life, leaving me with a deep appreciation for the hidden intelligence in the ecosystems around us.
Jay Shetty Podcast
Jay Shetty's podcast is a transformative platform where he shares insights on mindfulness, relationships, and personal growth. Each episode features inspiring conversations with guests from various fields, exploring practical wisdom and life lessons. I listen to his podcast every morning, as it challenges my thoughts and encourages me to learn something new each week. His relatable approach and powerful messages motivate me to reflect on my own life and strive for continuous improvement.
The Happy Show
Stefan Sagmeister
The Happy Show by Stefan Sagmeister was a huge inspiration for me as a designer. It was the first time I realized that design could be both provocative and playful, not just serious or functional. Sagmeister showed me that design could evoke emotions, challenge norms, and even be a bit silly, all while delivering a powerful message. His work opened my eyes to the idea that design is much more than just type on paper—it’s an experience, a way to communicate ideas in unexpected and memorable ways. It changed how I approach creativity and design as a whole.