I just spent 15 minutes this morning reviewing the AIGA Standards of Professional Practice with two questions in mind:

• Are these standards still relevant in this day and age?
• Am I comfortable asking our members to abide by them?

This recap of the Jonathan Barnbrook lecture event was written by Shawna Harch, Communications Committee Member. The event was hosted by the MFA in Applied Craft and Design, and jointly offered through PNCA and Oregon College of Art and Craft. It was supported by PNCA Communication Design Department, AIGA Portland, and Crack Press.

This recap of AIGA Portland's SHIFT 4 event was written by Jane Pellicciotto, sustainability committee member.

Another well-attended SHIFT confirmed that Portlanders are still hungry for engaging presentations on sustainable design thinking—or maybe it was the free beer. Either way, two key themes emerged from the evening. One was collaboration—joining forces to find solutions to today’s problems, together. A twist on the popular saying is called for: “Many hands make green work.” Another theme was the need to approach projects and solutions from a deeper, more meaningful perspective—highlighting the notion that if we’re to be agents of change then we need to design from the heart, if you will.

AIGA Portland is ramping up their volunteer roster in order to create a more dynamic organization, and we need help to make it happen. As you know, AIGA Portland is an all-volunteer organization, so the strength of the design community relies on the support, genius, and sweat from generous folks like you.

We have many exciting things on the horizon including a new website developed by a local interactive company that will host member profiles, design case studies, work showcases, and a blog that is populated by articles from the community.

As the new incoming President of AIGA President for 2010, I have a questions all the Portland designers out there: What would you like to see AIGA Portland do?

From our round table a few months ago we heard people requesting more crafts and government involvement. We heard that we're doing well with sustainability (SHIFT) and design inspiration (Designspeaks). That said, turn out at the round table was small - so weigh in and post a comment below and let us know what you would like to see us do.

ONE NEW FACE JOIN THE AIGA PORTLAND CHAPTER BOARD

After a rigorous review of nominees last week, the Portland chapter welcomed Billy Huys and Shona Lepis to the board. Lisa Holmes was also reelected to continue her great work as current and continuing Sustainability Chair. These highly accomplished design professionals will serve a three-year term beginning July 1st, 2010.