As designers – myself included – we think we know everything, but as I get older I have to agree with John Lennon when he said, “The more I see, the less I know for sure.” I think this is why I love the co-design movement. Designers are wonderful at arranging the pieces to make the whole, but we don’t exist in a vacuum. We must engage others to create work that’s inclusive and relevant. 

- -

Dawn Hancock founded Firebelly, a studio committed to socially responsible design. She is involved in Chicago’s art and design community as a co-founder of the annual Typeforce show, co-ordinator of its annual Grant for Good, and community outreach chair for AIGA Chicago. www.firebellydesign.com