From An ADX Intern’s Desk: Jered Carlin Signs Off

October 14, 2011

I had been once before. Here to ADX, in June to participate in the senior portfolio show for graphic design students at Portland State. The space had just recently opened and we were capitalizing on the opportunity to make more connections with creatives in Portland. I hadn’t known what to expect when I arrived to set up, but was pleasantly surprised. So much so that when another opportunity came along, I wanted to give it a shot.

My last class at PSU required that we earn credit through a graphic design internship. One of the first places I wanted to pursue was ADX. After several emails regarding interning and setting things up, I got to come in for an interview with Meredith regarding the position. After being taken in, shown facility and their mission further explained, I was stoked that I had a chance to become involved with a community like this in Portland. I didn’t know a place like this existed outside of school or the work environment.

The people at ADX are key in making this community what it is. Sure, maybe you have a table saw and drill press at your availability, but do you have the expertise of professional crafters, shop masters, expert designers and the like at your expense? Probably not. Here, ideas are expressed, researched and constructively criticized among knowledgeable peers. All part of the process that produces a fine and well crafted piece.

It is really a makers dream. And I don’t mean to say that just because I have worked here for the last 3 months. Now that I have experienced it and developed relationships with members, directors and others, as well as make some pretty rad stuff, I truly do mean it. ADX isn’t only a means to produce work, but a community that you can become a part of, learn and grow in as a maker. It is somewhere where you can bring your design or fabrication idea to life.  An idea into something tangible and applicable, that you create yourself.

Having the chance to be an intern at ADX has been an awesome experience that I truly do value. It has opened many doors for me: chances to learn how to weld, specialty tools at my fingertips, freelance work, networking with new people, and much more. Without directors like Kelley, Eric, Meredith and Seamus, ADX and a community of makers, builders, welders, thinkers, designers and doers like this in Portland wouldn’t exist. I don’t know how to and can’t thank them enough for the opportunities that they have presented me with.

Jered