I purchased my first Apple Macintosh SE in 1987, three years after this unconventional computer system burst onto the stage. The concept of overlapping windows, files and folders and a mouse that could point and click was destined to change the world forever. Getting in at this time also had many benefits. It allowed me to experience most of the major popular software in its infancy.

I grew up with the very first editions of a sundry of programs like Quark Xpress, Strata and Adobe products, Illustrator and Photoshop before they became part of a Creative Suite. As every program variant became increasingly complex I was able to simply build on the knowledge and experience of the past. Only the new bell and/or whistle added to the last version had to be learned and incorporated into my ever-expanding foundational proficiency. Learning in this manner was so much easier than for the poor person of today staring blankly for the first time at a complicated and fully evolved program.

Although there are a cadre of applications currently installed on my computer, as a digital illustrator Adobe Photoshop is the main app I repeatedly reach for. It is used on a daily basis. With the countless hours of hands-on practical knowledge of this now ubiquitous industry standard program, I consider myself an expert, but it is impossible to know it all. Seminars are perfect for refining skill and providing insight on a new bell or whistle that might have snuck by. It is often surprising how much I end up learning. These classes have presenters doing their best to maintain interest for attendees of all educational levels. This means I occasionally have to sit through some rudimentary segments of the lesson plan. It can be boring at times but my perseverance is consistently rewarded. Without exception I always walk out of class having learned some precious tip or trick that day that far exceeds the price of admission.

My friends and colleagues at the Pittsburgh Society of Illustrators (PSI) are providing a similar educational opportunity next month. It will be held Saturday September 25th, 2010 at the Pittsburgh Technical Institute in Oakdale, Pa, approximately twelve miles west of downtown. Select prominent PSI members, an acclaimed artist rep and an esteemed keynote speaker are generously sharing their valuable experience and useful knowledge about the perils and rewards of the creative industry. Through stimulating presentations and workshops plus portfolio reviews from recognized leaders within the industry, an enormous amount of information will be shared. Add to that a sensational gallery exhibit of some of the topmost talent Pittsburgh has to offer and unmatched networking possibilities will ensure individuals of all career levels enjoy a captivating day broadening competitive skill and capitalizing on prime opportunities. I encourage you to visit  http://www.pittsburghillustrators.org/Conference2010.html for specific program information, presenters’ bios and how to register.

Regardless of what you know, if you attend this seminar, at the end of the day you’ll know more.

Kurt Pfaff is an illustrator working in Pittsburgh, PA regularly collaborating with numerous agencies and corporations while learning as much as he can. His work can be found on package labels, books, brochures, posters and other printed material or websites. His work also hangs on the walls of galleries and homes. Visit his website at http://kurtpfaff.com