By Ryan Lowry
As I reflect on my experience at Phoenix Design Week 2019, I think back to the roots of the event. I began my relationship with PHXDW in 2012, serving as a volunteer coordinator on the AIGA Arizona Board. Looking back, I had not fully comprehended how vital and impactful the event is. This gathering of creative individuals has placed Arizona on a national radar and continues to give life to the design community.
Cutting to present day, I am once again contributing to PHXDW—now as a Creative Director. I’ve spent the last ten months tirelessly working with the teams, partners and members of the design community to spark creativity in Arizona through this event. Working on Phoenix Design Week has been a surreal, humbling experience beyond comparison. Although it won’t give justice to the entire experience of the event, here are five takeaways I took from this year’s event:
I wish the best for the team working on PHXDW 2020, which is already well underway nearly a year prior to the event. I would also like to challenge anyone with a creative spark to get involved with your local design community. Phoenix Design Week is an amazing event and makes giving back to local communities, especially the arts, even more rewarding and impactful.