"Thursdays This Summer" The Skirball Adventure

By Shannon Penrod

“Thursdays this Summer” (my plan to entertain and educate my child on a budget) began today with a trip to The Skirball Cultural Center.  What a great way to start the summer!  The two exhibits on Comic Book Super Heroes  were really fun for the kids.  They got to dress up in Super Hero costumes, draw their own comic book character and check out a lot of vintage artwork. 

The real hit of the day was the amazing Noah’s Ark exhibit!  The entire exhibit was hands on and interactive.  I love it when a docent says, “Make sure you touch everything!” 

All of the animals are sculpted from reclaimed materials in the exhibit so there are layers to the enjoyment.  While the kids were pulling levers to create lightning, wind and rain the adults got to stare in wonder at an alligator fashioned out of a tire, a glove and a violin neck. Amazing!  The entire exhibit was ingenious, captivating and deliciously educational.  Yippee for Thursdays this summer!  And did I mention it was FREE!  Yes, Free!  Every Thursday the museum is open for free  – there wasn’t even a parking charge.  Thank you, Skirball Center for a wonderful day!

Career Focus: Work at Home as a Graphic Designer by Sandra Beck, Motherhood Incorporated

By Sandra Beck, Motherhood Incorporated

Do you have an artistic eye?  Are you comfortable with computers? You could work at home as a graphic designer.  The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average income for graphic designers as $45,000 per year.  With the option of enjoying the flexible work hours of a home office environment, this is a career worth looking into. 

The Technology

At a minimum, you will need to equip your home office with a computer, printer and design software.  Most entry-level positions require at least an associate degree, with a bachelor’s degree preferred. 

Getting Started
 
The key to success as a graphic designer is a killer portfolio.  The best way to build a portfolio is to get busy working.  That may seem intimidating if you have little or no experience, but there are plenty of opportunities out there if you are willing to do a little pro bono work.  Many nonprofit organizations looking for graphic designers, and free is the right price.  Idealist.org lists open paid and volunteer positions within the nonprofit sector.  Gaining much needed career skills is even more fun when you are assisting a worthy cause. 

Choosing a Niche

Once you have built an impressive resumé, you may find it beneficial to choose a niche or specialty.    Choose an area of expertise based on your strengths and interests.  Specializing will help you gain credibility with your clients.   Here are a few graphic design specialties to consider:

– Advertising / Commercial Designer

– Animator

– Desktop Publisher

– Illustrator

www.motherhoodincorporated.com

www.sandrabeck.com