If I create something that is beautiful, stunning, and unique yet has no purpose, was it worth my time? Think of some of the most beautiful things you’ve ever seen…now think of how effectual they were. It’s not universal, but some of the best designed pieces cause little impact.
If I create something that has purpose yet is ugly, have I done a good job? Consider MySpace, arguably one of the ugliest and least cohesive designs on the internet. Is it effective? Maybe…they have scores of hits and have signed a multimillion dollar advertising contract.
In the end, purpose outweighs beauty hands-down. This is partially a lament and partially a realization of nature. However, the best things are the ones that combine good design and meaning.
Andrew Maddox | Chasing the Wind
thoughts, musings, and writings of Andrew Maddox
Some might call me a meaningless beauty…just sayin’
All too often, though, for those of us aesthetically inclined, it seems the scales are tipped too far away from the “good design” side of the equation.
Nevertheless, I agree with you. Because when you really get down to it, having a purpose and meaning is far more important than what you look like. After all, in the eyes of the one who really matters, we’re all the same on the outside.