Javier Palomares makes a point while teaching Materials and Methods. Photo by Juan Posada.

At ArtCenter, most of our more than 400 faculty are working professionals—artists, photographers, painters, filmmakers and designers of every discipline—directly engaged with the demands of today’s creative marketplace and bring their knowledge and fresh approaches into the studio. Faculty shape the intellectual life of our community and often build relationships with students that last beyond the classroom.

This Fall, ArtCenter News introduces you to a few of the unique and talented individuals teaching our students.

Originally from Colombia, Javier Palomares has a degree in Industrial Design from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and graduated with honors from ArtCenter in 2003 with a degree in Product Design. Today, as founder of design firm Curve Ahead, a design firm specializing in the full range of capabilities that develops ideas into innovative solutions for consumer products and furniture, his designs have been displayed at the High Point Market, Bernhardt Design at ICFF, Javits Center, and the Dwell in Design show, Los Angeles. He also teaches at ArtCenter.

ArtCenter News: How has working at ArtCenter changed you (or how have your students changed your work)?

Javier Palomares: ArtCenter is a great place to work. I am very grateful and fortunate to be surrounded by design in all its forms, at all times.

AN: Where do you go for inspiration?

JP: Two main factors inspire me in every design project. The first is nature, in which I find endless possibilities for new designs when studying and admiring the living form. The second is traveling, which has allowed me to explore fascinating new places and cultures and learn about the way they see and go through everyday life.

AN: What’s the one thing you can’t live without?

JP: I always keep a sketchbook and pen nearby, as well as a good cup of coffee.

AN: How do you define success?

JP:  Success is difficult to define, but to me, it is finding the perfect balance between being happy doing the work that you do and making the people you love happy as well.