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Author Archives: Michael VanPutten
The places you will go
When we watch children at play it is easy to begin to imagine their future. We envision great things and limitless potential. Sadly, as adults, we don’t always recognize or embrace the same potential in ourselves or our peers. This … Continue reading
Hurray: royalty free stock art
As you read this, the deadline for your current graphic design project is quickly approaching. There are so many pieces and parts that need to come together in order to make the project a success. How does your checklist … Continue reading
Sample work: MSU Valentine’s Day cards
In February 2012, our team set out to create a special set of Michigan State University themed Valentine’s Day cards for our social media audiences to share with family and friends. Everyone on our team contributed to the project and … Continue reading
Sample work: 2012 MSU State of the University
My team at Michigan State University created the 2012 MSU State of the University website in February, 2012. Our design challenge was to communicate data-rich key metrics and accomplishments for our institution in an engaging visual way. My participation in … Continue reading
What is the purpose of art?
The purpose of art is not the release of a momentary ejection of adrenaline but rather the gradual, lifelong construction of a state of wonder and serenity. – Glenn Gould from the liner notes for A State of Wonder: The … Continue reading
What do runners think about during a marathon?
“Marathon Thoughts” shares one man’s stream of consciousness while running 26.2 miles. If you’ve run a marathon, perhaps you’ve experienced one or more of these thoughts. If you’ve not had the pleasure of running far for a very long time, then … Continue reading
Will a higher education degree prepare you for the future?
Factoid: 5,000 = The number of PhDs in the U.S. who are working as janitors. This factoid from a 2010 National Bureau of Economic Research working paper has been making the rounds this week — inspiring renewed discussion regarding the value … Continue reading
An insider’s view of Chiat/Day
I really love this 15-minute documentary about the Los Angeles office of TBWA/Chiat/Day Advertising. The piece was directed and edited by Matthew Kalish. Aside from enjoying a hip/fun soundtrack with tunes from the 1970s to present, in this video you will … Continue reading
Sample work: First snow of the season
I shot, edited, and published the first snow of the season video in under an hour the afternoon of Nov. 10. It was produced as a community engagement piece for the official Michigan State University Facebook Page. The video was shot … Continue reading
Will one million dollars be enough for retirement?
I have been thinking a lot about if I will have enough time and money to do all the things I would like to in this life. I consider myself lucky when considering the opportunities I have had thus far. … Continue reading
