Luke Williams, class of 2009

the project

My senior project was inspired by a quote that reads, “life is a series of rooms, and who we get stuck in those rooms with, adds up to what our lives are.” I concentrated on documenting those people who brought me to where I am today, as a designer and artist.

I went back to my high school to reconnect with art teachers who encouraged my initial path toward art and design; employers who helped me cut my teeth in the design industry; colleagues who showed me the ropes at an early time in my career. I featured those who taught me things I couldn’t learn in the classroom; my family who inspired me from the beginning, and supported me the entire way; my close peers who took the journey alongside me, and the many professors who taught me invaluable lessons that I carry with me today.

This collection of straight-forward and objective portraits add up to one considerably intimate self portrait; a nod to where I came from, and to whom I owe all the credit.

luke's advice

1. Take some time to think about what the last four years has meant for you. What lessons did you learn? Was there any particular experience that completely changed the way you look at design, and the way you work?

2. Get excited about your project—like really excited! You know you’re doing it right if you’re working super hard with a smile on your face. Plus, you’re going to have to invest some serious effort if you want to win that Best in Show prize...

3. Before you make your final decision, sleep on it.

---

Luke is currently a designer at Paperless Post New York. He has also worked at Leo Burnett and MoMA. 
See more of his work at lukelukeluke.com.