MAKING ART WORK is a series that taps into the knowledge and experience of seasoned creatives from our community and beyond for the benefit of our students.
Dave Titensor is the Associate Creative Director for the University of Utah Marketing and Communications department, and the Art Director/Photographer for the University of Utah Magazine. He is also an alumnus of the U's Department of Art & Art History.
In his own words:
"I studied graphic design at the University of Utah under the tutelage of graphic greats McRay Magleby and Don Weller. After graduating in 1992 with a BFA, I joined the award-winning design firm, Richardson or Richardson in Phoenix, AZ. There, I managed complex projects and acquired a taste for cactus salsa and blue corn chips.
Drawn back to my native Utah, I created and managed Carr Printing Company's graphic design division for eight years. Next, wanting more independence, I took a leap and became a full-time freelancer when I formed my own design company, Titan Design in 2001.
After growing weary of working alone in my pajamas, I now have a full-time job at the University of Utah as Art Director for the University Marketing and Communications Department. I continue to do freelance graphic design work in the evenings from my home studio—when I'm not having fun with my family or sleeping."
How did you get your start in visual art? When did you know you wanted to study graphic design in college?
I grew up with an interest in visual arts. My mom and grandmother enjoyed painting watercolor landscapes as a hobby. I enjoyed drawing, drafting, and design classes in high school. I knew I wanted to explore a career in something art-related, but was not sure what kinds of jobs would be available. I always heard that artist tended to be starving, so I was not sure it was a viable choice. After a few semesters doing general classes in college, I decided to go for it and applied to the graphic design program at the U.
I think most good design has a combination of being both timeless and trendy. Having a good foundation of where art has been is necessary before you can understand where it is going. I appreciate the exposure I gained at the U to art history as well as the more contemporary history of graphic design, photography and other visual media. I was taught that good design has meaning and is much more than mere decoration. It should make a statement, bring change, have real impact.
What were the most valuable lessons (about art or otherwise) of your time at the Department of Art & Art History?
I had wonderful, creative instructors at the U. I learned to take criticism to help improve my work. I learned how important a well-rounded education and broader life experiences are to draw inspiration into my work. Perhaps the most eye-opening experiences were the trips we took with the graphic design department to New York and San Francisco. We toured design firms and art museums. I was able to see first-hand what I had only seen in books or slide shows for my art and art history classes. I returned from each trip pumped up and inspired creatively.
What are the key skills to focus on for someone looking to go into art direction?
An art director needs to be able to quickly grasp the assignment at hand and quickly distill it down to its essence. Be able to identify the one thing that needs to be communicated. And find a creative way to communicate and make a lasting impression. I think most good design has a combination of being both timeless and trendy. Having a good foundation of where art has been is necessary before you can understand where it is going. I appreciate the exposure I gained at the U to art history as well as the more contemporary history of graphic design, photography and other visual media. I was taught that good design has meaning and is much more than mere decoration. It should make a statement, bring change, have real impact.
What things keep you inspired and/or help you keep a healthy work-life balance?
When my right brain kicks in on a project, I can easily lose track of time. I’ve learned that I have a tendency to get lost in the task at hand and forget other important things. There are times when certain aspects of life require extra attention. But, I believe a more balanced life is a more happy life. I am happier when I make time to develop myself mentally, physically, spiritually and socially. I make an effort to set goals in each of these areas for myself. Not all goals are achieved, but it is the effort of working on these things that brings rewards.
You can explore some of Dave's portfolio in the gallery below. Check out the University of Utah Magazine here!
