“Be prepared to reinvent yourself.  Be prepared to go out on a limb occasionally… and be prepared to do the thing that you feel strongly about, that maybe other people don’t…”

I had a great blog post lined up for today – that was until I read that one of my idols, Hillman Curtis (site here) passed away just a few days ago.  I tend to get news like this on a delay here in China.  Even if you’re not sure who Hillman Curtis is, there is a good chance you’ve seen his work.  The creative world has truly lost a great mind and an enormously generous creator – a person who impacted me greatly as both a designer and a photographer.

I remember several years back at a friends house, I first saw Hillman’s book, MTIV: Process, Inspiration and Practice for the New Media Designer. I was so impressed that I went home that same day and ordered copies of the book for every designer friend I could think of.  That book continues to be an inspiration for me and I’m deeply saddened to hear of Hillman’s passing.

His is a life worth studying.  I’d highly encourage you to get familiar with his work and his life if you aren’t already.  Hillman Curtis was only 51 when he passed away.  With the shortness and uncertainty of life, I think we owe it to ourselves and the world to spend our time doing what we love.

Rest in Peace Hillman.  Prayers to your family.  You’ll be deeply missed.