Joshua Kaufman creates his own imagination.
A product designer based in San Francisco, Joshua uses his skillset to make the world a better place. Joshua was part of the team that created #climate app and is passionate about ideas that have a lasting impact. Joshua has an unconventional outlook on formal education and believes that aspiring designers should use their imagination as they create.
Check out our interview with Joshua to discover who and what inspires him, one thing he wish he knew before starting his career, and why he thinks you should go to Burning Man.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m a digital product designer who likes to solve human problems and make the world a better place along the way. I grew up in rural Pennsylvania, was educated in London, and found home in San Francisco.
How would you describe your design style?
Minimal, rustic, modern.
Who inspires you in the design world?
Dieter Rams, Jonathon Ive, and Mother Earth.
3 tips for aspiring designers trying to find their unique style?
- Don’t be limited by what what exists. Create your imagination.
- Write more stories, take more photos, make more art.
- Go to Burning Man.
What’s one thing you wish you knew when you were starting out your career?
Formal education is nice to have, not a requirement.
How does the work that you do impact the lives of others?
I was part of the team that created the #climate iOS app, which allows environmental activists to easily share climate actions on their social networks, facilitating positive environmental change.
What have you been listening to lately?
My cafe playlist on Spotify, my friend Patrick Ewing’s podcast Warm Focus Radio, and my friend Josh Ostrander’s DJ set, Dance Music for Discerning Individuals.
What’s one crucial part of your daily routine?
Meditating for at least 10 minutes right after waking up.
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Zoë Björnson is an Editorial + Social Media Coordinator with about.me. She is a graduate of Tulane University. You can find her on Twitter @kzoeb.
