Designer Spotlight, Mentor Spotlight

Terrence Moline

Tell us about you?

They call me “The Design Unc.” I gladly accept that title. I love design. Designing strictly for capital feels unhealthy for me. I balance life by taking pictures of details and the discarded; I explore new applications and avenues of expressing creativity; I play ping pong with my kid; I’m the founder and head listener of AAGD.

What are some of your favorite tools or applications you use? Or can’t do without?

Grammarly, Text Expander, Basecamp: Those are essential for this career stage. My favorite apps are: InDesign, XD, Audition, and After Effects. The last three are fun and challenging.

What type of work do you enjoy most?

Right now—cause you know how much it changes with us—community design. It’s the most rewarding. For fun, I love putting together motion graphics where I make beats, slice audio clips, and produce graphics.

Which project left the biggest impact on you as a designer/creative?

A branding project for The Southen Institute run by Lance Hill on the campus of Tulane University left the most significant impression. It had nothing to do with the project as much as the people I encountered. For instance, you can check the website today for survivor stories. I met Sigmund Boraks, who told me stories of living in two Nazi ghettos. I learned two lessons from listening to him that I will never forget. I also worked on a project for the Center for the Survivors of Torture. That was intense.

What advice do you have for younger or less experienced Black/AA designers?

Don’t believe the industry hype. If you’re not in this field to provide a design service—heavy emphasis on service—then maybe your ego is in the wrong place. If you don’t take creativity in business building or sales seriously, perhaps you’re not as creative as you think. Don’t get distracted by all. the. things. Focus on understanding and crafting better typography. Lastly, read.

What would you say is the best way to take advantage of the AAGD network?

Research the members of the community. Learn to value connection. Make yourself known and use the resources to get the help you need.

How do you deal with creative block?

I work through it. I don’t really have expectations of output. Just work through it, take a break, do something relaxing, and keep working.

What advice would you give to someone who is interested in what you do?

Focus on what you do best and understand this industry is not for people who are not accustomed to constant change. Also, focus on communication both written and verbal. They are both more important or equally important to visual communication.