Bob Gill was a legendary graphic designer, educator, and thinker whose words still inspire creativity today. His quotes cut straight to the point, challenging designers to think differently and break free from clichés. Whether you’re a designer, artist, or just someone who loves sharp insights, these quotes will push you to see things in a new light.
Bob Gill on Creativity & Originality
Bob Gill believed creativity wasn’t about following trends—it was about solving problems in fresh ways.
🔹 “If you can’t solve a problem, it’s because you’re playing by the rules.”
🔹 “Good design is not about decoration. It’s about making something work better.”
🔹 “Originality is simply pairing two unrelated ideas together.”
🔹 “Don’t try to be original. Just try to be honest.”
🔹 “The best ideas come when you stop looking for them.”
Ever felt stuck trying to be “creative”? Maybe you’re overthinking it. Gill’s approach was simple: look at problems differently, and the ideas will follow.
Bob Gill on Design Thinking
Gill didn’t believe in design for design’s sake. Every choice had to mean something.
🔹 “Design is not about beauty. It’s about communication.”
🔹 “A good idea doesn’t care who has it.”
🔹 “If your design doesn’t tell a story, it’s just decoration.”
🔹 “The problem contains the solution. You just have to find it.”
🔹 “Simplicity is the hardest thing to achieve.”
Think about the last design you loved. Did it just look good, or did it say something? Gill pushed designers to dig deeper.
Bob Gill on Work & Discipline
Talent alone isn’t enough. Discipline and hard work shape great designers.
🔹 “Inspiration is for amateurs. The rest of us just show up and get to work.”
🔹 “The more you do, the better you get. It’s that simple.”
🔹 “Don’t wait for the perfect idea. Start with a bad one and make it better.”
🔹 “Deadlines force creativity. Without them, nothing gets done.”
🔹 “If you’re not failing, you’re not trying hard enough.”
Waiting for inspiration? Gill would tell you to roll up your sleeves and start working.
Bob Gill on Teaching & Learning
As a teacher, Gill believed in hands-on learning and questioning everything.
🔹 “The best way to learn is by doing—not by listening.”
🔹 “If you can’t explain your idea in one sentence, it’s not clear enough.”
🔹 “Rules are just someone else’s solutions. Find your own.”
🔹 “A good teacher doesn’t give answers. They ask the right questions.”
🔹 “You don’t need permission to be great.”
Ever sat through a lecture and zoned out? Gill’s teaching style was the opposite—active, engaging, and full of challenges.
Bob Gill on Life & Perspective
His wisdom wasn’t just about design. It was about how to see the world.
🔹 “The way you see things changes everything.”
🔹 “Happiness is not a goal. It’s a byproduct of doing good work.”
🔹 “If you’re bored, you’re not paying attention.”
🔹 “The most dangerous word in design? ‘Obviously.’”
🔹 “You don’t have to be the best. You just have to be different.”
Life, like design, is about perspective. Gill’s quotes remind us to stay curious and challenge assumptions.
Final Thoughts
Bob Gill’s words are timeless because they cut through the noise. Whether you’re designing, working, or just living, his advice pushes you to think differently.
Which quote resonates with you the most? Drop it in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going. 🚀