Ali Khalifa: Creativity and Connectivity
Photos: As expected Ty Rarick, our beloved IDSA Southern Chapter Chair, delivers an awesome opening speach at the conf. Ali pictured with fellow Design Box member Becky Shankle.

If you had a design box what would it look like? DesignBox is democratic, creative outlet, and above all a collective of friends started by Ali Khalifa. (You may recognize Ali from Gamil Design.)

Ali stressed a few main points in his creative approach... The essence of understanding is to see all the connections between things. Look at how they are connected by using an experiencial approach. The most innovative work is done by networked individuals. It's really about synectics; the most creative group ideas come from outside of your profession (utilizing lateral thinking). Respect these relationships on the "fringe", as Ali put it. Its those differences between people where creativity comes from.

And finally... Cultivate your own garden. Get involved with your community. Get involved with children. They have an awesome perspective and will share their honest clarity where the "jaded" elder is sometimes amiss.

How do you become a member of Design Box? Contribute 2 hours a week and curate a gallery show. If all goes well the group will vote you... and watch the fun unfold.