I think it's important to get exposed to design any way possible.  Don't dismiss going to hear an artist talk or lecture because you're a sculptor and the presenter isn't a sculptor.  Consider this...listen to the process the artist uses in creating their work, ask questions about their path to success, marvel at their creativity and be inspired.

Recently I heard George Peters and Melanie Walker from Airworks Studio present on their amazing aerial artwork.  They create large scale public art projects for recreation centers, government buildings and hospitals around the country.  One of the things that I became conscious of during their talk was my connection to the art once I knew the artist.  They showed some of their pieces that are local to the Denver Metro Area.  On the way out I heard a number of people comment on how many times they have seen the piece, but seeing it connected to the lecture gave them a new perspective and appreciation for the work.

Whether or not you're planning on doing public art projects, to hear about the process and the details involved gives you ample information to decide if that 's the path you want to pursue.  To see pictures of the work once it's installed is breathtaking.  They had some pictures from an installation in Fairbanks, Alaska that were incredible. 

At the end of the talk they presented their collection of artistic kites.  George and Melanie have been avid kite makers for many years and to see the joy in the kite and the people flying them was amazing.  Their passion about their work is evident by their enthusiasm in the presentation.  Like many of us we could talk for hours when it comes to discussing our art.  Keep up the Enthusiasm!

You can see glimpses of George and Melanie's work at www.airworks-studio.com.

Grounded in the experience...
Greg