Interview with Larry Jensen

Larry Jensen is the owner of Jensen Designs, Inc. As a Graphic Designer and Illustrator he believes creative ideas are meaningless unless they provide a results-oriented solution to the marketing problem, meet quality standards, and satisfy the client’s budget. Jensen Desings, Inc brings together creative and production specialists to work with the client, creating a team that will produce innovative, cost-efficient solutions that generate results.

Now , let’s get to it.

Larry, what are your tools of the trade (Computer, Monitor, Scanner, Cameras, etc.)?
Mac and PC, mostly Mac for design and PC for administrative work. For several years I have used dual monitors with my Mac. I have used expensive scanners and printers, but now use a basic Microtek scanner and HP printer/copier.

What is your favorite tool (Plug-in, Software, Equipment, etc.)?
My favorite software has been Macromedia FreeHand. But, thanks to Adobe, that will be a thing of the past. I also use Adobe Creative Suite. For intial concepts I still like pencil and paper the best.

Favorite Resource(s):
This varies with each project. It may be the web, a trip to Barnes & Noble, or a tour of the client's work...

Who, what, or where do you get your inspiration?
I consider myself to be a right brained individual with left brained tendencies. I often start my creative process brainstorming using a word grid exploring terms that relate to the project.

If you could have one thing what would it be? Why?
God's creativity. Wow, just imagine what you could do.

What are the primary goals of the church as it relates to your position?
"To be a community of believers that glorifies God through Christ-likeness and proclaiming Christ to the World." One-on-one marketing is the most effecetive marketing weapon a church has in its arsenal. My goal is to create tools that inspire and equip people to engage in one-on-one marketing for their church.

What hindrances do you have to overcome?
My biggest hindrance is me getting in the way of God's solution.

What is your favorite trick or technique and would you consider giving an example?
The word grid mentioned above is probably my most effective tool. I use this for myself and also in brainstorming sessions with clients. Along with the word grid I use a visual grid (still words -- not sketches) to explore colors, symbols, abstract, and concrete terms relating to the project. Combined with the word grid visuals begin to emerge -- visual that solve the problem and typically bring results. My second "trick" is to ask questions and take notes. Sometimes asking the right questions will prompt my client to provide the solution.

How did you get started in your profession?
I've been drawing all of my life. I started creating graphic design projects for my church in high school. I was blessed to have a family and church that encouraged my artistic pursuits. I began my career as an illustrator for the U.S. Army where I was selected to head the Graphic Arts Department for the Chief of Staff of the Army in Washington D.C. In this position I designed collateral material and visual presentations for the highest levels of the Department of Defense, the U.S. Congress, and the President of the United States.

Readers can find out more about you by?
www.jensen-designs.com