Design
Things We Can Learn From Jim Henson (The Muppets, Sesame Street)
  by:  |  May 15, 2012
Share this article

Last updated on January 28th, 2021 at 04:19 pm

Jim Henson, best known for his work on Sesame Street and The Muppets, died May 16, 1990. More than 20 years after his untimely passing, Jim still manages to make his work relevant to this day. Needless to say, all of us can learn something from the guy. Jim might have primarily worked with puppets but his work ethic is something all of us – graphic designers included – could strive to have.

https://www.ryanjacoby.com/2012/02/building-design-culture-part-1.html
http://mickeyandminnie.tumblr.com/post/20493416443/when-jim-henson-died-disney-artists-joe-lanzisero
Encourage Playfulness

This eulogy may be hard to watch for those who think the world of Mr. Henson. However, Frank Oz, a man Jim had worked closely over the years, had wonderful things to say about Jim’s playfulness behind the curtains. In an industry where you’re encouraged to entertain kids and adults alike, it’s important that you bring out the inner child in you. Being playful unlocks creativity and makes the job that much easier.

Be Ready for Unexpected Hits

As with any work, you never really know what’s going to mesh well with the public until you’re done working on something. Jim Henson had a surprise moment when he found out that Rainbow Connection has become a radio hit. While the song was designed for the 1979 classic The Muppet Movie, I doubt they thought the song would be this successful, even earning an Academy Award nomination in 1979. The song had also been covered many times by different respected artists.

Have Fun

The real key to Jim Henson’s success was having fun. I know it’s a tired old cliché but having fun while working really does bring out the best in anyone. As you will see in the videos below, Jim’s family of puppeteers had continued on working around that same principle to much success long after the debut of The Muppets and Sesame Street.

So you need to go out there and have fun. If you’re a graphic designer, print posters and share your work with friends and family. Spread the love!

Here are some designs inspired by Jim Henson’s creations. Remember, you can like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to get updated on the latest design posts and news here on the UPrinting Blog.

Disclaimer: Images on this page are not owned by UPrinting and are used solely for educational purposes. Please click on the URL to see their original sources.

http://www.behance.net/gallery/Sesame-3D/3774682

http://www.behance.net/gallery/Count-the-lines/3898383

http://wagnerf.deviantart.com/art/muppets-207775433?q=boost%3Apopular%20the%20muppets&qo=1

http://www.behance.net/gallery/Retro-Muppet-Concert-Posters/2136466

http://www.behance.net/gallery/Retro-Muppet-Concert-Posters/213646


Check out our custom printing options.


 


Share this article