In a world where creativity meets parenting, the Dadsigner podcast brings insightful conversations to the forefront. Host Michael Smith welcomes Blake Barnes, a talented designer and family man, to discuss the intersection of his professional life and personal experiences. Together, they explore the challenges and joys of parenthood, the creative process, and the exciting world of mascot design.
Blake Barnes hails from the small town of Martin, Tennessee, where he balances his roles as a husband, father, and creative professional. Married for seven years, Blake shares his journey into fatherhood, highlighting the joys of raising his one-year-old daughter, Maddie. As he describes her rapid development, from crawling to almost walking, listeners can relate to the constant vigilance that comes with parenting young children.
Blake’s passion for design shines through in his work, particularly his unique project known as “Mascot Monday.” This initiative began as a way to increase his presence on social media and connect with fellow designers. By offering free mascot designs to anyone who commented on his posts, Blake not only engaged his audience but also showcased his illustration skills. He reflects on the joy of collaborating with various individuals and businesses, from coffee shops to fellow designers, illustrating the communal spirit of creativity.
During the conversation, Blake discusses the current trends in mascot design, particularly the popularity of rubber hose-style characters. He acknowledges the charm of these designs, likening them to classic animated characters like Mickey Mouse. However, he also raises concerns about the saturation of this trend in the market. The discussion highlights the balance between following trends and maintaining originality in creative work.
Blake reflects on his time as the Director of Creative Services at Union University, a pivotal moment in his career. He describes the challenges of capturing the attention of high school students bombarded with marketing materials from various colleges. Through intentional design and collaboration with a talented team, Blake learned to create impactful and memorable pieces that stood out in the crowd. This experience reinforced his belief in designing with intention and the importance of teamwork in achieving creative goals.
This conversation offers a glimpse into the life of a creative professional navigating the joys of fatherhood and the challenges of the design industry.
Find Blakes work:Website: barnesandco.coInstagram: @barnesandco1
