A Whimsical Wander with David Jon Walker

Oh, what a delightful chat we had with the ever-moving, ever-creating David Jon Walker! While Erik and I settled into our virtual seats for this episode, David joined us fresh from his daily run in New Haven—the man literally never stops!

Author

Rachel Elnar
April 06, 2025

In this Cheers & Tiers conversation, David John Walker, a prominent art director and type designer, shares his journey through the design world, his involvement with AIGA and the Nashville chapter, and the evolution of design education.

From Student Member to Design Leader: David’s AIGA Journey

For those who haven’t had the pleasure of encountering David in the wild (and by wild, I mean at one of the countless AIGA conferences where he’s been spotted at since 2008), he’s a New Haven-based art director, type designer, and Yale professor whose work has earned recognition from just about every design publication acronym under the sun.

The conversation with David wandered through his impressive AIGA journey, from student member to chapter co-president, and eventually to those infamous leadership retreats where Erik and I both crossed paths with him. Speaking of those retreats—did you know there's a 6AM “Sunrise Club” where retreaters stay up 24 hours straight just to earn a lapel pin? I must’ve been sleeping during those lovely after-party club meetings.

The Power of Connections: How AIGA Shaped a Career

What truly resonated was David’s reflection on how AIGA connections have shaped his career path. From meeting Bobby Martin at his very first conference in 2008 (after spotting him in Print Magazine and thinking, “Wow, Black people do graphic design on this level?!”), to eventually being introduced to Forest Young, who suggested Yale—each connection became a pivotal stepping stone. As David put it, “There is a sequential order of how AIGA has absolutely played a role in my path and trajectory.”

“Apathy Is Inexcusable”: Finding Purpose Through Lettering

Most inspiring was David’s passion for lettering, which he only began in April 2020. His powerful work often reflects current events, and his recent reflections after visiting Birmingham's civil rights landmarks were particularly moving. “We can’t let our foot off the gas,” he reminded us. “Apathy is inexcusable. Silence is inexcusable.”

As Erik and I watched David’s thoughtful expressions during our chat, one thing became crystal clear: This man embodies momentum—whether he’s running through historic civil rights routes, crafting exhibition designs that engage all senses, or creating lettering that speaks truth to power. And wherever he goes next, you can bet we’ll be following along.

Want to hear more stories like David’s? Subscribe to Cheers & Tiers on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. We’ll have more episodes featuring your friends and your favorite design leaders, sharing their journeys, challenges, and triumphs.

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