Cheers, Creative Enthusiasts,
Ah, the end of an era. One of my favorite teachers from college that I wrote about here is moving on to the next phase of his life. I am thrilled for John Langdon as he embarks on an epic journey to the sunny side of life in California leaving my alma mater, Drexel University and the my hometown of Philadelphia behind – but with many fond memories, and even more grateful and humbled students. I met John for the first time in 1988 when this fresh-faced girl with a pencil and paint brush in hand landed on Drexel’s campus wondering what to do with this artistic talent that I came upon honestly. My paternal grandfather had in fact also graduated from Drexel with an architecture degree taking night classes when the “main building” was the only structure to speak of many many moons ago. John’s Farewell gathering was held at the URBN building lobby – which is a gorgeous structure for today’s design and media students that was opened up about three years ago. I wonder if these students know how good they have it compared to the graphic design program’s humble beginnings at Nesbitt College of Art when I was the third graduating class. Back then, I felt honored to be taking classes at Nesbitt under John and many other fine teachers, such as Sandy Stewart and Jack Cliggett who were also in attendance Friday, April 1st (Yes, April Fool’s Day! – but there were no "fools" there to be sure!)
Left: Ambigram created by John Langdon. Can you figure out what it says? Answer in a moment. Right: Promotional poster of John Langdon’s work featuring his ambigram/logo work. Answer: “Advanced Typography.” :-)
I had an absolutely fantastic time, even when I was "fanboying” John asking him to sign my copy of his Wordplay book that he wrote about ambigrams and the art of logo creation back in 1992. He was also sweet enough to sign my copy of one of my favorite books of all time, Angels & Demons (Dan Brown) next to one of his mind-boggling ambigrams that he created for the storyline. It was heartwarming to hear the often hilarious and complimentary stories told of John and his antics as a punchy professor of graphic design. So many good times, and great memories. I will spare you pics of John with his chained wallet on his jeans and me with my 80s coif and turquoise earrings. Use your imagination and enjoy that bit of nostalgia sans proof of it! :-)
From left to right: Drew Fader, Marita Podder Gray, John Langdon, Kerry Fader, myself (Cathy Broadwell), Mike Welsh – Class of ’92, Graphic Design Program, Drexel University. SO GREAT to catch up with all of you cool cats! I'm thrilled that you attended!
John, you were and still are one of my favorite teachers of all time. I am in your debt for the excellence in typography that you instilled in me, my love of the yin/yang symbol, and the playfulness and joy that I find in typographic shapes and graphic art. I loved working with you while enjoying my career and I have every confidence that we will again! Stay in touch, my awesome friend! You ROCK!
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Can I help create your promotional materials for your important, world changing mission or business, or help you with your new website launch, branding, T-shirt or invitation design? I invite you to contact me so that I can offer a free consultation and price quote for any of your design needs. Have an awesome week and happy creating!
To your creative endeavors!
Onward and upward.
Cathy Broadwell
Giant Leaps Creative LLC