To begin the project, we had a fascinating and informative conversation about different techniques and strategies for ways to begin this project – hopefully ways to move beyond our own clichés. In general, however, we talked about the importance of making a lot of crap, taking missteps, and getting lost. The more different paths tried the greater the chance to discover something you didn't know was out there.
Here's the list we compiled:
Translation: For example, start with an existing map and "translate" the content to your own.
Research vs Making: Start in two different ways to see. First, say, do NO research and start map the mapping. Then do research, perhaps looking what others have about graphic design now, then make maps.
Make a list of terms: These would describe everything you associate with graphic design now. Perhaps a second thing would be to organize those terms into categories and then sub-categories – and perhaps even sub-sub-categories.
Start in an unfamiliar way: For example, begin at the end. Make the finish product immediately (but only if you're someone who always has too much process).
Maybe the mess IS the outcome: For example, Janet Malcolm's New Yorker article on David Salle, that was 10 different first paragraphs to an article on David Salle. Each paragraph ended up revealing a different way of seeing or understanding the subject, while at the same time looking at narratives and narrative strategies.
Collaborate: Some techniques might be to begin by brainstorming, interviews
Start with a design you really love: and "interpret" it for your needs
Start with an event: Perhaps some conference, play, film, book, or other event becomes the departure point down a wonky and unpredictable path.
Encouragement to everyone to elaborate this list, correct, embellish or whatever...
Also, do read the Turchi piece and I also recommend reading "The Bathing Ape has no Clothes and other notes on the distinction between style and design." (See the link in the gray sidebar to the right under "Map Project Websites."
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