Why did you accept the invitation to design the Summer 2023 edition of All-Story?
A more appropriate question would be, why did Zoetrope: All-Story accept my request to design an edition? I had been wanting to do one for years, and finally I let that be known to a friend, who relayed my interest. I have always admired the unique approach to design and fiction that is celebrated in this publication. Each issue appears as a loving surprise and is never disappointing.
Were there any surprises in the design process?
Yes, it was much easier than I expected. I thought I would be doing layouts and finding fonts, and be personally responsible for all aspects of the production, including printing. But Zoetrope: All-Story did all the heavy lifting. What I did was the fun part.
Any challenges?
Not really, the editors accepted all my wacky suggestions. It is very special and unusual to collaborate in such an organic way.
Might you offer any advice to future designers?
I would advise future participants to take full advantage of this rare opportunity to work with creative colleagues who believe in your talent and focus on making anything you suggest become a reality.
What’s inspiring you of late?
Visual:
Georgia O’Keeffe at the Museum of Modern Art
Richard Mosse
Trevor Paglen
And so many others . . .
Musical:
Beyoncé duets with Blue Ivy
Textual:
Open Throat by Henry Hoke
This Chair Rocks: A Manifesto Against Ageism by Ashton Applewhite
Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl
And again, so many others . . .