Early in my career, I was often labeled a problem solver — someone who could jump in and get things done. And for a long time, I took pride in that. But there came a point when I began to question whether what I was doing was actually solving problems, or simply patching them. Sometimes it felt less like addressing the root of an issue and more like plugging holes just fast enough to keep the boat from sinking. What I began to notice over time was that in people's rush to solve problems, they often left out others. Stakeholders, collaborators, and those most affected by change are sometimes brought in late or not at all. And when that happens, confusion surfaces quickly and things slow down, often in ways that feel avoidable in hindsight. My path into user experience design, and later design thinking, shifted how I understood problem solving. What user experience design taught me most deeply was the importance of centering the human experience. It was not an afterthought, but the starting point. Design thinking helped me further soften that lens, emphasizing curiosity, listening, and exploration before moving toward a defined solution. One of the most valuable lessons I learned was the difference between active listening and generative listening. Active listening can still be driven by an internal urge to respond, to fix, or to move things forward. Generative listening requires something else entirely: the discipline to be quiet, to sit with what’s being said, and to take in perspectives without immediate response or judgement. This is especially important when working with complex, people-centered challenges. There’s a strong pull particularly for some problem solvers to jump quickly into solution-making. But when people move too fast, they risk missing critical dynamics: relationships between people, systems and subsystems, environmental constraints, and the lived experiences of those impacted by change. Exploration at the start of a project isn’t about perfection, and it isn’t about avoiding mistakes altogether. It’s about trying to get more of the right things visible early. That means being curious enough to ask: Who else needs to be part of this conversation? What assumptions are we making? What perspectives are we missing? I also do not believe exploration means getting stuck in analysis paralysis. There is a difference between thoughtful inquiry and endless deliberation. Exploration, when done with intention, helps teams move forward with greater clarity and fewer blind spots. A key part of this work is understanding stakeholders, broadly defined. Stakeholders are not just executives or decision-makers. In my opinion, they can include anyone affected by a change: from the CEO to the person on the street. Some stakeholders are critical, others are supportive, and some sit on the periphery. And being on the periphery doesn’t mean being outside the system; it simply means experiencing its effects differently. When teams take time early on to engage stakeholders, define shared language, and surface different interpretations of key terms, they create opportunities for alignment. Visioning work, for example, is not just about imagining the future; it is about building shared understanding in the present. Clarifying what we mean by the words we use can prevent misalignment later, when decisions become harder to change. Over the years, I learned that bringing people along especially at the beginning reduces friction down the line. It does not eliminate tension or disagreement, but it makes them easier to navigate. Even those who challenge ideas or raise concerns are part of the process, and their perspectives often reveal important constraints or risks. Exploration is not an add-on. It is a way of working that honors complexity and acknowledges that people and systems are deeply interconnected. The more we involve people early with the listening, mapping, and making sense together, the less confusion we have to untangle later. At its core, this is about learning how to bring people along thoughtfully and intentionally, from the very start.

Video, using Adobe Firefly, created during a session from IDEO U AI and Design Thinking Workshop Series As a design-thinking and visual practitioner, here is my commitment to using Artificial Intelligence (AI) responsibly, creatively, and human‑first. Purpose AI is a powerful amplifier. I use it to expand thinking and not to replace judgment, originality, or accountability. Guiding Principles People first and system awareness. AI supports human creativity and decision‑making. People remain responsible for intent, impact, and outcomes, and systems should be examined for relationships and understanding. Originality Before Optimization I protect time and space for solo thinking. AI enters only after ideas have been formed and questioned. Augmentation, Not Automation AI helps surface options, patterns, and risks, but it does not make final calls or moral judgments. Responsibility Over Convenience All AI outputs are questioned, verified, and contextualized. Speed never outweighs integrity. Care for People & Data I respect privacy, authorship, and intellectual property and avoid using AI in ways that exploit or misrepresent others. Mindful Use I use AI intentionally, aware of environmental, cognitive, and cultural costs. What This Means in Practice I remain accountable for all work I publish or decisions I make. I choose when not to use AI. AI is a lens, not my pen.

As I step into 2026, I am continuing to shape The Social Art Complex with intention and care. My work remains grounded in visual storytelling, and human-centered design, even as the creative landscape continues to shift. I am paying close attention to how tools like artificial intelligence (AI) are influencing creative work - not as shortcuts, but as technologies and systems that require thoughtful use and clear boundaries. For me, AI supports experimentation, exploration, and problem-solving, and it must be guided by a strong sense of ethical responsibility. Over the past year, I have begun deepening my understanding of AI and design thinking. In parallel, I have been considering how AI-enabled tools might support my visual design and illustrative workflows. At the same time, I continue to explore motion and timelapse visuals as part of an ongoing interest in how systems, people, and objects move, evolve, and unfold over time. This year is about focused expansion - moving deliberately, learning deeply, and building work that remains human at its core.

Cultivating Abundance and Individual Power Reimagining Unconference continues to be an incredible open space for listening, learning, and collective visioning. I always walk away energized by the wide range of perspectives and lived experiences that fill the room. Last Year's Theme: Cultivating Plenty Last year’s gathering centered around the theme of cultivating plenty and abundance . This powerful reminder shows us that there’s more than enough when we shift how we see and share resources. It encourages us to rethink our approach to collaboration and community building. This Year's Focus: Personal Creation This year, the focus turned inward. Participants explored what they could create on their own . This shift in perspective highlights what becomes possible when we move beyond the status quo. It also emphasizes the power we currently hold within ourselves. The Energy of Change It’s no small task to imagine new ways of being and doing. During this year's unconference, you could feel that shift happening. Barriers dissolved, ideas expanded , and both individual and collective potential came into view. This energy is essential for fostering innovation and growth. Looking Ahead: Future Possibilities I'm already wondering what next year's unconference might explore. The potential for new themes and discussions is exciting. Each gathering builds on the last, creating a rich tapestry of ideas and experiences. Gratitude for Facilitators Many thanks to Lena, EK, and Susan for their superb facilitation! Their guidance helped create an environment where everyone felt valued and heard. Join the Movement To learn more about this transformative experience, visit reimaginingunconference.com . Engage with a community that is committed to exploring new ideas and fostering growth. Conclusion: The Power of Collective Visioning In conclusion, the Reimagining Unconference is more than just an event. It is a movement towards understanding and embracing our collective potential. By coming together, we can create a future filled with possibilities. Let’s continue to cultivate abundance and explore the power within ourselves.

The hare in the Adversity card set is a symbol of quick thinking, creativity, and resilience. With ears alert and eyes wide, the hare navigates an uncertain landscape. It serves as a reminder that adversity often requires courage and ingenuity. Exploring the Symbolism of the Hare This card invites people to pause and explore: The forces and barriers that stand in the way of transformation. How we might face adversity directly, without turning away from difficult truths. The unconventional wisdom and creativity that can help us move forward. The Importance of Reflection For my upcoming American Future Search facilitation at the Ampersand Gathering , I selected this card as part of a carefully curated set to guide the conversation about how we might grow together as Americans. These cards aren’t answers; they are doorways. The hare reminds us that even in complex, challenging times, we hold creativity and insight that can guide us forward. The Four Crocodiles: A Counterbalance Another card from this set is the Four Crocodiles . They bring a sharper energy, representing tension, power dynamics, and fear. Together, the Hare and the Four Crocodiles encourage us to acknowledge both internal resilience and external realities. The Tree of Life Deck The Tree of Life deck was created as a tool to spark curiosity and connection, helping people reflect deeply and imagine boldly. By weaving these cards into facilitation, I hope to give participants space to slow down, listen, and co-create together. Wisdom in Adversity The Hare, above all else, reminds us that wisdom is everywhere. Sometimes it is hidden, sometimes playful, and always within reach, just outside our windows. Embracing Creativity In moments of adversity, embracing creativity can be transformative. It allows us to see challenges from new perspectives. This shift in viewpoint can lead to innovative solutions and pathways forward. The Role of Community Community plays a vital role in navigating adversity. By coming together, we can share insights and support one another. This collective strength can amplify our resilience and creativity. Conclusion In conclusion, the hare symbolizes the quick thinking and creativity needed to overcome challenges. As we face adversity, let us remember to pause, reflect, and engage with our communities. Together, we can navigate the complexities of life and emerge stronger. The journey of growth is not solitary; it is a shared experience. Let us embrace the wisdom that surrounds us and move forward with courage and creativity. ---wix---

I recently completed the International Forum of Visual Practitioner (IFVP) Master Visual Practitioner application—recorded a live scribing, gathered recommendations, and was accepted to move forward. Then I paused. Not because I doubted my skills. Since 2019, I have been practicing with curiosity, empathy, and collaboration—building a practice rooted in trust, dialogue, and shared exploration. But I realized I want more than validation. I want to lead through creativity, deepening my work as a visual practitioner and creative problem-solver. This prompted me to pursue the Presencing Institute’s Visual Practitioner Certification—a program I have intermittently considered for some time. I believe it will enhance my understanding of how visual practices can be the groundwork for cultivating innovation, collaboration, strategy, community, and collective work—an area I've been curious about for some time. Visual practices are living, transformative tools—a way to generate insight, spark conversation, and guide teams through complexity with imagination and collaboration. More to come later on how my services and offerings will evolve. If you have any use cases and would like to collaborate, please email info@thesocialartcomplex.com . I hope the change in direction will benefit you and future clients. Rest assured, I remain a member of the IFVP and will pursue the master certification in the future.

Print Production of the Tote Bag Design I'm always impressed by the team at The People’s Climate Innovation Center —not just for their dedication to climate justice, but for their deep understanding of the power of visuals as a tool for movement-building and knowledge-sharing. One thing that truly stands out is their ongoing commitment to integrating visual artifacts into their programs and community engagement strategies . They don’t treat visuals as one-time event documentation—they weave them into the fabric of their work , using them to spark conversation, reflection, and even celebration. This particular image began as a live scribing piece I created at their opening reception in 2023 . In 2025, they reached out to repurpose the illustration for the Young Climate Leaders of Color event, asking to bring the artwork to life again as a tote bag design . And in a fun, full-circle moment, the same image even made an appearance on their event cake ! Beyond being visually engaging, scribing and storytelling reflect a thoughtful approach to knowledge-sharing. Visual scribing serves as a tool for capturing community insights, lived experiences, and collective wisdom and in a way that’s both accessible and emotionally resonant. It helps document conversations that might otherwise remain ephemeral, and makes it easier to transfer knowledge across generations , especially in movements rooted in ancestral, cultural, and place-based wisdom. In this way, visuals become more than artifacts—they become living documents that evolve with the community, supporting both memory and momentum. To learn more about how The People’s Climate Innovation Center, visit peoplesclimate.org . Colorful illustration from the 2023 Young Climate Leaders of Color gathering, depicting five figures holding hands under the phrase "The Future is Now," adorned with vibrant patterns and symbols representing unity and sustainability. Celebrating the Young Climate Leaders of Color 2025 convening with a vibrant and meaningful cake that asserts "The Future Is Ours."

One of the most inspiring projects I had the pleasure of working on last year was a collaboration with LA Commons , an organization whose mission is to “engage communities in artistic and cultural expression that tells their unique stories and serves as the basis for dialogue, interaction, and a shared understanding of Los Angeles.” As part of their Cultural District Storytelling Series , I created four visual scribing artifacts —capturing real-time conversations, ideas, and themes that emerged from their community gatherings. These visuals served not just as summaries, but as storytelling tools that helped preserve the energy and insight shared in each session. You can see how LA Commons featured the scribing work post-event by jumping to timestamp 07:57 in the news clip above. Learn more about the powerful work LA Commons is doing here: https://www.lacommons.org .

In January 2025, I had the privilege of collaborating once again with the amazing open space facilitator, April Jefferson , to deliver another art-infused experience. With every collaboration, we refine our processes, learn new things, and grow together. It’s always an exciting journey, and this time was no exception! Illustration by Ashanti Gardner One of the things I really enjoy is when a client has a clear theme or vision in mind for their event or conference. This particular client’s theme was inspired by a concept called escape velocity —the minimum speed needed for an object to escape the gravitational pull of a planet (according to Wikipedia). I will admit, I was not familiar with the concept at first, so I spent a few hours researching it, then another few hours brainstorming and sketching how I could visually represent this concept in an impactful way. The final visuals we created were a hit. The client loved them so much that they wanted to incorporate the designs into their presentation deck for the main stage and as pop-up banners outside the event area. People were also really impressed with April’s thoughtful facilitation , and with the combination of her expertise, people commented how the visuals created a truly immersive and engaging experience . As we move forward, it is clear that how we curate a space makes a big difference. There is always room for improvement, and we learned a few valuable lessons from this event that will help guide our next one. Key Takeaways: Room Layout/Traffic Flow: For a more seamless visual experience, we found it works best to place the agenda board near the door, where participants are entering and exiting. This ensures that the agenda is easy to spot and keeps the flow of the event smooth . Sustainability Matters: Participants raised valid concerns about the plastic fidget toys being used. For future events, we have a selection of sustainable alternatives that still keep the energy of the space interactive and playful without compromising the environmen t. Invest in Good Photography: A good camera is a must for capturing high-quality photos and videos. For next time, we agreed to create a photography schedule to make sure we find time to capture those special moments for the post-event summary document. The other option is to find someone to task with taking photos and/or video. Stay Flexible and Have a Backup Plan: When the hotel misplaced our visual boards, I was able to quickly pivot because I had already researched a nearby art supplier. Luckily they located the boards. Always be ready for the unexpected! Confirm Shipments with the Venue: If you ship products or items to a hotel, avoid relying on a notification that the shipment has arrived. Work with your logisitics point of contact to get a direct confirmation from the hotel that they have received and properly stored the items. This will save you a lot of headaches when you arrive on location. All in all, this event was a great success, and we are already looking forward to refining our process for the next open space event. Every gathering teaches us something new, and that’s what makes this work so special.

Illustration by Ashanti Gardner As a self-described "design tinkerer" (a term coined by a close friend), one of my favorite ways to ponder problem-solving is to think about negative space, the space between shapes and objects. Long ago, a UX researcher and designer introduced a negative space exercise into a UX course to stretch our thinking around how to problem solve. What I learned is that problem-solving is more than thinking outside the box; it’s not about the box at all. To innovate, we had to become better problem-solvers. The core idea was straightforward: innovation is about uncovering what has yet to be discovered and the emergence of new ideas. However, to make those discoveries, we must look beyond what we see in front of us. This concept became even more interesting when I came across the Cynefin framework (Snowden, 2007), which explores how we approach problems based on what we know and do not know. How these two ideas—negative space and Cynefin—intersected made me think about how I could visualize all of this. I created the following visuals. While they might be abstract, I hope these visuals help convey the concept of approaching problem-solving with a touch of negative space. I In the first image, a simple chair represents the clear, straightforward problems we encounter. Just as we can see the chair and identify its issues, these problems have obvious solutions. The Known Known: Simplicity and Easy Solutions The first image is a simple chair—a known . We immediately recognize this, and the problem is apparent. Perhaps the chair has a scratch, or the paint is peeling. The solution is easy: sand it down, repaint it—nothing too complicated. This reflects an apparent problem in the Cynefin framework (Snowden, 2007), where we understand the cause and effect clearly, and there is an easy solution to resolve the issue. The Known Unknown: Exploring Complications The second image shows a chair with a red square object underneath. This raises questions, symbolizing problems that require more exploration and expertise. The same chair is still in the second image, but now a red square object is underneath it. This is a known unknown —we recognize the chair, but the square object raises questions: Why is it there? Who put it there? Should it be removed? At this point, the problem is no longer straightforward. It does not feel impossible to solve, but we need more expertise or input from others to figure out what to do. We need more analysis and probing. This scenario fits into the complicated domain of the Cynefin framework, where we know we do not have all the answers and might need outside help to get to the solution. The Unknown Unknown: Experimentation and Discovery In the third image, the chair is not the focus, leaving negative space. This represents the complex problems where solutions are not apparent, and we must experiment and explore. Now, we move to the third image. Here, the chair seems to have disappeared, and instead of being focused on the chair, we are focused on the emptiness around the chair—what I think of as negative space. This represents the unknown unknowns , a more abstract and complex problem. In the Cynefin framework, this would be the complex domain where the solution is not apparent, and you may need to experiment to see what works and what new ideas emerge. You might need to test different approaches, fail a few times, and iterate until something emerges. The process of experimentation allows for discovery and emergence. You will value curiosity, exploration, and learning from intelligent failures. Often times, these "unknown unknowns" disrupt the status quo. On the other hand, some become complacent and lean into the way everything has always been done . Suddenly, a product or service turns their industry upside down. Think about the fall of Blockbuster and Kodak. The final visual depicts a chaotic cloud, signifying unpredictable and high-stakes problems that require quick, often risky decisions. The Unknowable: Chaos and Disorderliness In the final visual, I imagine a chaotic cloud representing the unknowables . This space feels unpredictable, and nothing in your life has prepared you for what lies ahead. This would fall under the chaotic domain in the Cynefin framework, where everything is disorderly, and you are forced to act fast to regain control. In a time of chaos, how you act might be considered risky, and the solutions may be untested and unclear. In these situations, most people do what they can to rely on the expertise of others and hope for the best. Chaos is unpredictable . Think about the 9/11 attack - the New York mayor and emergency personnel had to act and respond fast. Negative Space as a Visual Tool for Innovation As many problems are all around us, there are also many unknown and emerging ideas around us. Whether the challenge is simple, complicated, complex or chaotic, understanding how to work with negative space helps us embrace uncertainty and take shape of what might be. The n egative space, those empty areas around or between objects, is a powerful metaphor for problem-solving. By focusing not just on what we see but also on what is hidden, we can uncover new opportunities and innovate in ways we had not imagined. Please share below your comments and thoughts. References Snowden, D. J. (2007). The Cynefin Framework . Cognitive Edge. https://www.cognitive-edge.com/cynefin/

Sustainability is more than ever a necessary lifestyle to preserve the earth and its bounty for future generations. At The Social Art Complex, we are working toward integrating more sustainable materials and practices into our work. Here, we will share our thoughts and ideas on a greener approach to being more climate-conscious. Photo credit: Alena Koval From Foam board to Cardboard Some visual practitioners rely on materials like foam boards, which have many environmental concerns due to their non-biodegradable nature . However, there are options like the Neuland wall, which is a good investment for those working primarily on paper. Transporting the wall from job to job is likely to have its challenges, which we are not privy too. Foam boards are typically the way to go for those looking for an easily portable and lightweight option. They are also easy to use when building large visual structures or printing pop-up banners. While practitioners have many options, some increasingly opt for honeycomb cardboard , a more sustainable and eco-friendly choice. Honeycomb cardboard is more straightforward to break down and less environmentally harmful than foam board . Few vendors sell honeycomb boards a sheet at a time. The honeycomb board is primarily used in units or packs. If you are lucky, a vendor may have a broken pack or unit; they may be willing to sell one sheet at a time versus a whole unit or pack. The other option might be buying and breaking a pack with other practitioners. Also, while we have not used honeycomb cardboard to build large-scale visuals, its smooth surface and sturdiness tell us that it might be a suitable replacement. Eco-Friendly Markers and Paper In our experience, most visual practitioners use water-based markers (water-soluble ink or acrylic)  because they are often easy to clean up. Imagine being in a hotel or museum and spilling ink on the floor - you want something washable!  Coincidently, water-based markers are less harsh on the environment . Most of the markers we use, like Posca, Neuland, and Molotow, are refillable too. In addition to markers, we use a significant amount of craft paper, particularly for in-person recordings. Paper is here to stay and easily recyclable. There is an engaging tactile nature about paper that draws in people - it is magical to see a visual evolve in real-time right in front of you. Marker case full of various markers. Going Digital Aside from paper, visual scribing with a drawing tablet, like an iPad or WACOM, is an eco-friendly alternative, reducing the need for physical paper and markers . However, this shift comes with its own set of challenges. For instance,  larger screens are required in-person  to make the scribing accessible and visible for good participant engagement. In a remote situation, virtual cameras allow real-time viewing of the visual practitioner’s work, enhancing participant engagement. Also, the visual can be shared quickly with one or two clicks. As new technologies emerge, we will see more immersive experiences through Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality and broader access to these technologies. Going digital is more of a choice. Think about the physical space, audio and visual requirements, the vibe you want to create, and the needs of your participants, then decide between paper or digital. No More Plastic Fidgets Having fidgets on the table during facilitated events helps some participants self-regulate their nervous systems, de-stress, manage anxiety, or soothe agitation . They are essential tools for supporting participant engagement and keeping people present. Many plastic fidgets are available online - making quick and easy to grab. However, searching for "sustainable figdets" leads you to other options. The best replacement we have found so far is fidget toys constructed of wood and metal,  which are better for the environment than plastics. Photo credit: Markus Spiske A Collective Responsibility People are increasingly seeking more sustainable ways to operate, and our responsibility is to meet these expectations. By adopting eco-friendly practices, we ensure that everyone can feel good about participating in our gatherings . With the current climate and environmental challenges, it is more important than ever to show up responsibly as visual practitioners. We must add value to the world and contribute positively wherever we can. By making these conscious choices, we hope to lead by example and leave a better world for future generations. Please share your thoughts or comments below . Resources Molotow Neuland Posca

Visual by Ashanti Gardner Innovation is all about making meaningful changes to what already exists. As a visual practitioner, I perceive innovation as an endless series of goals that we strive to achieve in order to remain relevant, fresh, and continuously evolving. However, it's crucial to remember that innovation isn't just a destination—it's a journey fueled by creativity. Moreover, creativity serves as the guiding force that propels us toward these innovation milestones, ultimately helping us achieve effectiveness and efficiency. While some may emphasize the importance of efficiency and effectiveness to reduce waste and streamline processes, merely urging people to be efficient and effective won't ignite their creative spark. It's creative, human-centric practices like individual and group ideation, visual business process mapping, contextual inquiries, and visual thinking that truly drive us to think differently, bold and big. While creativity is often undervalued and underutilized, it is essential for problem-solving. It allows our imagination to flourish and enables potential ideas to take shape, leading us to innovative solutions. The journey to creativity can be liberating and sometimes uncomfortable, filled with experimentation, prototyping, testing, making assumptions, and asking insightful questions. Encourage people to embrace this messy process if the risk of failure is minimal and no harm will come from it. Let them play, experiment, and explore without constraints. Guide them in unleashing their ideas without imposing rigid structures or dictating solutions. This approach exemplifies how to lead with creativity. In a world where efficiency and effectiveness often take precedence, we must remember that creativity is the driving force behind innovation. By fostering an environment that encourages wild ideas and playful experimentation, we open ourselves to limitless possibilities. Let people embrace the liberating journey of creativity and adopt a mindset that values imaginative thinking. Through our creative endeavors, we will naturally innovate and achieve the effectiveness and efficiency we seek. The key to staying ahead and remaining relevant lies not in reaching the next goalpost but in starting with creativity. Please leave a comment below and let me know other ideas or thoughts you have.