This will be more of an FAQ on what I think of the web today, and my own cents on a few things.

1- What are your thoughts on the indie web so far?

Well, this is fairly interesting to answer, mainly because I was told to be part of a "new wave" of web designers. I personally like how the web is starting to be seen as a canvas - it doesn't matter on which aesthetics or visual philosophies you stand on, there's always a way to convey your perspective through code, images and art! It's technically an artistic movement if you think hard enough on it. That's how I see it.

I just wished people remembered that more often. I did make many artsy friends in the niche, but I still hope it'll get recognition as a form of art in its own right.

2- Any favorite design motives?

I have a personal soft spot for Skeuomorphism, purely due to how it was initially meant to define the web as a familiar frontier for us to explore. The use of textures, highlights and noise reminescent of real life objects is a fun way to spice up an otherwise empty place. I guess it's probably because I grew up with Windows XP and old Android?

But yeah, in general, most of my favorite motives are from the 50s/60s, with the midcentury modern design and style. I remember Louie Zong mentioning a bunch of interesting ones in his "Illustration in Blender" video, and I could resonate with them. Maybe you will too!

3- How about the modern design trends?

Hmm... I'll say, Brutalism is indeed cool, I do like it a lot - It feels like a breath of fresh air amidst the liquid glass and all the excessively minimal designs. I guess, I just prefer when people balance the site's utility WITH the design that represents it, instead of letting the UX dictate how the site should look. It may give a bit more work, but it does make a big difference in how we navigate and experience other pages, even more when the web is constantly evolving.

Despite all the tech advancements and everything happening, it's still important to have the signature human touch, so I not only appreciate bolder ways of expression, I also encourage it! It's cool to remember that the web is made of people, not just screens and cursors/thumbs clicking and tapping around.

4- Lastly, do you have anything to say for those just starting off?

My main advice: research. Do LOTS of it. I'm not joking when I say that studying what the code does and practicing your way through does wonders. It's how I started, it's how I went, it's how I am still going nowadays! And, do remember that you're not alone with your doubts. That's the beauty of working alongside a community after all ^^

You shouldn't be afraid of making mistakes either - sometimes, you may even see your problem through a different angle, and find out what could work better. It won't be easy, but there's lots of fun to be had once the juices kick in! I wish you the best :D