Thank you so much for listening to my Creative Morning talk! I’m honored that I had the opportunity to share my story of how Pick Progress became a reality. As you can see, it took a lot of embers to get this project going, but once it did, it grew into an amazing global glow. I hope there’s something from my speech that you can apply to your life and journey. Please look at the tabs to learn more about what was shared. Thanks!
Keep Up to Date With Me and Pick Progress
Stay tuned for all the awesome things happening at Kalimizzou & Pick Progress. Sign up to receive an occasional email about new news. Note: I’ll always strive to make those messages worth it (or I won’t bother sending them). Also, we want to know if you would be interested in purchasing a Pick Progress book or in helping create a poster for Pick Progress Together.
My Creative Mornings Talk
Anyone who knows me will tell you that I can get meta quickly. I like to be a sponge for low- and high-culture references. So, I wanted to provide an extended edition of the presentation that features the inspiration for the references. Hopefully, these moments inspire you as much as they have inspired me.
April’s Theme is EMBER
The theme for April’s Creative Mornings is EMBER. It was chosen by our Poulsbo chapter in Washington and illustrated by Sarah Gordon.
The literal meaning of ember is a small piece of burning or glowing coal or wood in a dying fire. But as a metaphor, it means so much more.
The Poulsbo chapter had this to say about the significance of this month’s theme:
“Embers represent the quiet, enduring remnants of fire—what remains after the intensity fades. They carry a smoldering potential, a subtle strength that holds heat long after the flames have gone. As a quieter community outside the city, we may not always burn the brightest, but we never burn out. Our spark lives in reflection, resilience, and the space we have to pause, think, and grow.
In those calm moments, we find what many others miss: the steady glow of ideas, relationships, and dreams that don’t need noise to thrive. Embers remind us that even after challenges or change, something powerful remains—ready to reignite when needed. We hold that same quiet fire within ourselves, and in community with each other, we kindle more.
Together, we tend the quiet fire—fueling one another through presence, care, and shared warmth.”
Watch this video from our Poulsbo chapter for more on what ember means to them.
1996 Olympics
I have vivid memories of the 1996 Olympics. I remember on May 16, 1996, when the Olympic Torch passed through Lawrence, KS. One of my favorite things about the Olympics is the way each hosting site lights the torch. If I had to pick my favorite torch lighting, it would probably be the 2004 Summer Games in Athens. There’s something about the culdron bending over to meet the man lighting the torch that I always loved.
There’s No Place Like Africa
Embarking on a transformative journey to Kenya was a profound experience that left an indelible mark on my perspective and creativity. In this video, I share cherished moments from the trip that continue to inspire and shape my work.
Double Consciousness
I always want to be in a state of play, and the episode “Bring more play into your life” from the Life Kit podcast is an excellent example of why we should.
At the same time that I strive to have fun, I still struggle with my identity. Malcolm Gladwell’s Revisionist History does a fantastic job of explaining how isolating it can be when you’re different. Check out episode entitled ‘The Hug Heard Around The World’.
Pick Progress
Over the past nearly six years, Pick Progress has evolved into a vibrant tapestry of creativity, diversity, and resilience. What began as a personal passion project has grown into a global celebration of Black design, encompassing over 70 extraordinary posters, 31 unique plastic afro-combs, and insightful interviews capturing the diverse Black experiences. This collective effort has not only curated a stunning gallery exhibition but also fostered connections, amplified voices, and ignited important conversations within the design community.
The Power of Vulnerability
Throughout the six years of Pick Progress, I experienced an ‘ego death’. I questioned my identity and my relationship with my friends and family. I questioned my profession and how I fit in the workforce. What I learned is that you can’t or shouldn’t compartmentalize your identity. Doing the work to understand yourself is one of the most rewarding adventures, and when you get to a place where you can be completely vulnerable, I believe it unlocks the full potential of your creativity. Brené Brown studies human connection—our ability to empathize, belong, and love. In a poignant, funny talk at TEDxHouston, she shares a deep insight from her research, one that sent her on a personal quest to know herself and to understand humanity. A talk to share.
Do You See The Light Within You?
Remember… You are the light. It’s not on you, it’s in you. Don’t you ever in your motherfucking life dim your light for nobody
Welcome to Pick Progress Together – a collaborative initiative inviting creatives of all backgrounds, races, and identities to contribute their unique voices! While the original Pick Progress Poster series centered on Black experiences with Black artists, Pick Progress Together aims to unite artists of diverse backgrounds in a shared celebration of inclusivity and togetherness. We encourage you to join this movement by creating a poster that reflects your perspective on unity. Sign up today by completing the Google form, and we’ll provide you with a link containing all the details and requirements. Let’s come together through art to amplify diverse narratives and express the strength found in solidarity.
If you have any follow-up questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at chapterengagement@kansascity.aiga.org.
Note: The sign-up button will take you to a MailChimp form page.
There is never enough time to say all the things we want to say…
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