Just got an email back from Neil and he has recommended three printers to me that may be able to help with "the book".
Corvette Printing Ltd
FWB Printing Ltd
Dayfold Ltd
Great news and I will try to contact them during the week, but for the moment, too much blogging and not enough concepts and ideas!
Hmmm, I'll go and put the kettle on, always helps...
Monday 22 February 2010
Unemployable Students?
An example of what type of candidate students are up against after graduation.
If other graduates can't turn up on time or even use a spell checker, maybe it won't be so hard for me to get a job after all! Reading this and acting on the advice from Emma (Aquent) has made me feel a little better about my own career prospects.
It's also good to know that making a strong impression really does work, but only if you don't arrive late every day after you've been offered the position.
If other graduates can't turn up on time or even use a spell checker, maybe it won't be so hard for me to get a job after all! Reading this and acting on the advice from Emma (Aquent) has made me feel a little better about my own career prospects.
It's also good to know that making a strong impression really does work, but only if you don't arrive late every day after you've been offered the position.
Sunday 21 February 2010
Professional Project
I saw Luke had made up a handy little wall chart to help with his time planning and after giving him a Chinese burn, he decided that I could have a copy of it and I have now added the relevant details and time scales for my project.
I plan to print this and stick it on my studio wall at home. I want to be fairly strict but I know that things won't go exactly to plan so there is room for flexibility too.
And it all starts from tomorrow!
I plan to print this and stick it on my studio wall at home. I want to be fairly strict but I know that things won't go exactly to plan so there is room for flexibility too.
And it all starts from tomorrow!
D&AD Update
I have come up with some really interesting ideas for D&AD during a brain storming session. I don't want to go into too much detail here as I'll go through it with Claire and Wen tomorrow after another intense session with Dr. Anna!
Some ideas for The Metro brief: The city is fast and tough, and if you can't take it, hard luck! The City is where it is all happening, and I think The Metro needs to reflect this and tap into it.
Who wouldn't read the Metro?
Who wishes they could read The Metro?
Always on the move - no time to waste.
It sounds lame now I've written it on here but I've got some strong ideas. I am hoping to convince my "team" tomorrow that we can use some of this, unless they have something better obviously!
Also got some good concepts for The Bodyshop Brief and Quaker packaging, but having just read back some of the Metro ideas, I'll leave them on the sketch pad for now!
Some ideas for The Metro brief: The city is fast and tough, and if you can't take it, hard luck! The City is where it is all happening, and I think The Metro needs to reflect this and tap into it.
Who wouldn't read the Metro?
Who wishes they could read The Metro?
Always on the move - no time to waste.
It sounds lame now I've written it on here but I've got some strong ideas. I am hoping to convince my "team" tomorrow that we can use some of this, unless they have something better obviously!
Also got some good concepts for The Bodyshop Brief and Quaker packaging, but having just read back some of the Metro ideas, I'll leave them on the sketch pad for now!
Charles Saatchi
I was recently given this book and having nearly finished it, thought now was a good time to give a mini review!
If you're looking for how to run a multi-award winning ad agency, this isn't the book for you. Although it does go into a little detail on Charles Saatchi's previous career, it is more based on his current passion, Art.
The book is in a question and answer format that flows along nicely and you get the impression that Mr Saatchi doesn't take suffer fools but at the same time he is quite personable and I wouldn't mind spending an evening in his company! funny, to the point and an insight, albeit a small one, on a very intelligent and cultured man.
New Look Observer
The Observer has re-launched itself in its latest model this weekend. It is now a slimmed down 4 section Sunday newspaper, after deciding last year it needed to take action to reduce costs after the economic slowdown and reduction in readership.
Part of the reduction in readership is because most people are reading all the content online, at the moment free (although The New York Times is son to start a paying subscription service for online content). Given that the alternative was to close the newspaper, I'm pleased its chosen a slim lined version of itself, although I gave buying the paper around 2 years ago as I just think it lost its mojo! Not a very politically correct thing to say as The Guardian and Observer are supposed to read by those in the media and savvy designers, but I feel it became bland and weak! I do still take a look online during the week and I'm pleased to see it hasn't been totally re designed.
So its smaller and weaker, but a three legged dog is still a dog!
Part of the reduction in readership is because most people are reading all the content online, at the moment free (although The New York Times is son to start a paying subscription service for online content). Given that the alternative was to close the newspaper, I'm pleased its chosen a slim lined version of itself, although I gave buying the paper around 2 years ago as I just think it lost its mojo! Not a very politically correct thing to say as The Guardian and Observer are supposed to read by those in the media and savvy designers, but I feel it became bland and weak! I do still take a look online during the week and I'm pleased to see it hasn't been totally re designed.
So its smaller and weaker, but a three legged dog is still a dog!
Saturday 20 February 2010
Professional Project
Yes! Finally after what seemed like a weeks banging my head against a brick wall and being inside a creative vacuum, I have thought of an idea for this unit.
I want to create and alternative guide to places that aren't the typical "10 places you must visit whilst in London/NYC/Paris".
Kit told me about Mr and Mrs and at first I thought, this isn't what I was thinking of! I was very close to changing my idea o a packaging project as I am really interested in packaging design, but later that day I got my hands on Sophie Calle's book "Double Game" which I thought was fantastic. A bit neurotic but the narrative made it so interesting that I was engrossed.
As a result I am going to borrow a small idea from Sophie Calle and follow people from Barcelona, taking photographs and see where they head fro lunch. It comes back to the Mr and Mrs thing, because its about people in the know. Who knows a city better than those who live and work there? This way, I figure, I will be able to find all the "best" places for lunch across the city with an unsolicited recommendation. I plan to follow people from different walks of life and from different areas of the city and build up an alternative "guide" book to the city.
Its a bit weird, a bit odd and I could get arrested, but its a nice idea for a project and I'm really excited by it.
I want to create and alternative guide to places that aren't the typical "10 places you must visit whilst in London/NYC/Paris".
Kit told me about Mr and Mrs and at first I thought, this isn't what I was thinking of! I was very close to changing my idea o a packaging project as I am really interested in packaging design, but later that day I got my hands on Sophie Calle's book "Double Game" which I thought was fantastic. A bit neurotic but the narrative made it so interesting that I was engrossed.
As a result I am going to borrow a small idea from Sophie Calle and follow people from Barcelona, taking photographs and see where they head fro lunch. It comes back to the Mr and Mrs thing, because its about people in the know. Who knows a city better than those who live and work there? This way, I figure, I will be able to find all the "best" places for lunch across the city with an unsolicited recommendation. I plan to follow people from different walks of life and from different areas of the city and build up an alternative "guide" book to the city.
Its a bit weird, a bit odd and I could get arrested, but its a nice idea for a project and I'm really excited by it.
Live Brief - Theatre Orb
Got a mail from Craig (Theatre Orb) in the middle of the week saying he and his collegue like a couple of my designs and asked for a few amendments to be made.
These are the designs that I have reworked with Craigs mail:
These are the designs that I have reworked with Craigs mail:
>>>>>>Hi James
Many thanks again for your designs.
We especially like the black and white one on Page 5 and wondered if you would mind having a go at reversing the colours so we would have white writing on a black or grey background to see what that looked like? Also, we had concerns that the logo would not print up as well when it is small, it seems to lose its' 3D so wondered if this could be taken into consideration?
We also liked the images on Page 8 in that the word 'theatre' was written inside the word 'orb', however, when printing this page the word 'theatre' was lost so wondered if you could play around with making 'theatre' bolder? We also really like the font but wondered if you could try it with a black or dark background with white writing, but with the backg
round having different levels of shading almost as if the word 'orb' was emerging from shadow and/or some kind of glow in the background as if the glow was coming off the orb somehow.
round having different levels of shading almost as if the word 'orb' was emerging from shadow and/or some kind of glow in the background as if the glow was coming off the orb somehow.Hope this is OK James....
We're being pressed by the Lighthouse to submit a logo/copy to them asap so we would need this as soon as possible, if that's possible....
Thanks again
Craig>>>>>>
Student Power
It was good to see a group of students had won a prize for "Sustain Our Nation". The students from Glasgow held meetings with resident of an estate in the city to identify areas of common interest.
It is good to know that you don't have to be a designer with 10 years experience to have good, workable concepts that can be well executed and effective.
It is good to know that you don't have to be a designer with 10 years experience to have good, workable concepts that can be well executed and effective.
Signing Up.
Following Emma's advice I have now created a profile on LinkedIn and also signed into designweek.
I read design week often in the library but this way I can keep up to date with industry easier. LinkedIn is THE place to be and Emma said it's important to get ourselves an account so we can find people of interest and also they can find you!
I read design week often in the library but this way I can keep up to date with industry easier. LinkedIn is THE place to be and Emma said it's important to get ourselves an account so we can find people of interest and also they can find you!
The impact of Emma
Emma from Aquent paid a visit to our course this week and with it woke a lot of people up with her attitude. She was fun, interesting and bullish from the start and I think a few students weren't sure how to take her.
Her advice on getting into industry was excellent. She simply laid down the facts of how to get noticed, how to put together a strong c.v and how to talk about your work.
She also showed examples of what not to do with your c.v and explained that many creatives cross the line of quirkiness to crap far too easily.
Keep things simple. If you have a piece of work in your portfolio that you are not proud of, take it out. Never start by saying something negative about your work and always start and finish on a strong piece design work.
I spoke with her about working abroad and she also gave me some contact names for publishing houses and and few leads for other things too.
I was hoping that she would offer me a small work placement or similar as apparently she offered a few last year, but it wasn't to be.
Having professionals form industry come and talk is something I would like to see more of. We have had two in the last week, and I know the tutors are trying for more. I would like to see a designer from each discipline visit if possible, so students can get a real inside look at where they might go to work.
Her advice on getting into industry was excellent. She simply laid down the facts of how to get noticed, how to put together a strong c.v and how to talk about your work.
She also showed examples of what not to do with your c.v and explained that many creatives cross the line of quirkiness to crap far too easily.
Keep things simple. If you have a piece of work in your portfolio that you are not proud of, take it out. Never start by saying something negative about your work and always start and finish on a strong piece design work.
I spoke with her about working abroad and she also gave me some contact names for publishing houses and and few leads for other things too.
I was hoping that she would offer me a small work placement or similar as apparently she offered a few last year, but it wasn't to be.
Having professionals form industry come and talk is something I would like to see more of. We have had two in the last week, and I know the tutors are trying for more. I would like to see a designer from each discipline visit if possible, so students can get a real inside look at where they might go to work.
Wednesday 17 February 2010
To 3rd Year or not to 3rd Year
I called student financial services today to inquire about government funding for the 3rd year - should I not be offered a six figure salary as Creative Director at Why Not Associates this summer of course.
Apparently I am eligible for help from the government, although trying to get a straight answer out of them is always near impossible. I was under the impression that I was only eligible for 3 years funding and because I completed a year at Bournemouth Uni many moons ago (12years?) I would only get funding for the 2 years of this course.
I'm sure all the goal posts will be moved by the time a new government is voted in and more red tape wound around the system (things have probably changed in between my phone call earlier and me writing this) but it's great news.
I would still prefer to go into industry this summer as I'm keen to earn money and am more than a bit fed up of being a mature student but, looking at how many jobs are actually out there (in case you were wondering - very few) I might stay on another year to improve my knowledge and let the Industry get up on its feet again. It's got to be better than than job centre!
The downside is, I definitely have to complete the essay for Dr. Anna. Oh well...so, "Gender in advertising and its effect on the postmodern consumer..."
Apparently I am eligible for help from the government, although trying to get a straight answer out of them is always near impossible. I was under the impression that I was only eligible for 3 years funding and because I completed a year at Bournemouth Uni many moons ago (12years?) I would only get funding for the 2 years of this course.
I'm sure all the goal posts will be moved by the time a new government is voted in and more red tape wound around the system (things have probably changed in between my phone call earlier and me writing this) but it's great news.
I would still prefer to go into industry this summer as I'm keen to earn money and am more than a bit fed up of being a mature student but, looking at how many jobs are actually out there (in case you were wondering - very few) I might stay on another year to improve my knowledge and let the Industry get up on its feet again. It's got to be better than than job centre!
The downside is, I definitely have to complete the essay for Dr. Anna. Oh well...so, "Gender in advertising and its effect on the postmodern consumer..."
Anna Steinberg
Anna came to talk to us today about becoming a freelance illustrator. I can't draw to save my life but the general principles of her talk apply to anyone who is freelancing.
A lot of the information was a little "simple" like remembering to take a contact name for someone if they offer you work etc., but the part about exchanging contracts was interesting.
She was keen to stress too how important it is to keep all your finances in order and showed how she keeps track of her money, how much she is owed and similar. It fitted nicely in with the finance talk from the Entrepreneurs Club from Monday evening.
It was a reassurance to see how she first went about promoting herself simply by emailing art directors with a short and sweet couple of lines and a link to her site. She did say that she graduated in 1994 and these days Art Directors would be expecting something slightly more sophisticated.
She also stressed how important it was to calculate what you were being offered set against the amount of work expected. She was asked to do 22 illustrations for £1700 but refused as it worked out at around only £75 per illustration, but its easy to see how you can be blinded by the offer of nearly £2000.
Tomorrow we have someone from Aquent coming to look at our portfolios and give advice, and I think that will be more appropriate for me and I'm looking forward to getting some feedback.
A lot of the information was a little "simple" like remembering to take a contact name for someone if they offer you work etc., but the part about exchanging contracts was interesting.
She was keen to stress too how important it is to keep all your finances in order and showed how she keeps track of her money, how much she is owed and similar. It fitted nicely in with the finance talk from the Entrepreneurs Club from Monday evening.
It was a reassurance to see how she first went about promoting herself simply by emailing art directors with a short and sweet couple of lines and a link to her site. She did say that she graduated in 1994 and these days Art Directors would be expecting something slightly more sophisticated.
She also stressed how important it was to calculate what you were being offered set against the amount of work expected. She was asked to do 22 illustrations for £1700 but refused as it worked out at around only £75 per illustration, but its easy to see how you can be blinded by the offer of nearly £2000.
Tomorrow we have someone from Aquent coming to look at our portfolios and give advice, and I think that will be more appropriate for me and I'm looking forward to getting some feedback.
Monday 15 February 2010
Entrepreneurs club - financial workshop.
I have just returned home from a financial workshop provided by the at the Entrepreneurs Club at the Enterprise Pavilion. I missed the marketing workshop a few weeks ago, but attended this one as I need to understand the financial side of keeping a business for my involvement with Panda On A Bike and it will also be valuable for the future if I have my own company.
We covered accounts, taxation, insurance and raising finance. We also went through basic principles of book keeping, cash books and invoicing.
It s not exactly a subject to get excited about but it is essential to understand these elements for the future.
We covered accounts, taxation, insurance and raising finance. We also went through basic principles of book keeping, cash books and invoicing.
It s not exactly a subject to get excited about but it is essential to understand these elements for the future.
PPRD2
So after putting all my live briefs together last night into folders, I am ready for the hand in. Most of my work for this unit is in this blog so it seems to strange to have a hand when I have so little to actually hand in, but that is the advantage of a blog! My C.V is pretty much up to date ow and I have a designed a simple A3 portfolio for the visit this week of Aquent for portfolio advice. Once again, my birthday books came in handy for layout and typography tips!
I have enjoyed using the blog for recording events as I love writing, and will keep on making entries, at least for the duration of the course. I have also enjoyed following other students, particularly last years 2nd years as it gave me a taste of what was to come and the standards that would be expected.
I have had a couple of pieces of feedback from people too, one with advice of why the colour was inverting on an image I'd uploaded (another student) and another from the Soil Association after I blogged about the brochure I'd received from them.
I think this is the sort of thing future employers will look at too so I am keen to keep blogging!
Edit: I actually have another week until the hand in!
I have enjoyed using the blog for recording events as I love writing, and will keep on making entries, at least for the duration of the course. I have also enjoyed following other students, particularly last years 2nd years as it gave me a taste of what was to come and the standards that would be expected.
I have had a couple of pieces of feedback from people too, one with advice of why the colour was inverting on an image I'd uploaded (another student) and another from the Soil Association after I blogged about the brochure I'd received from them.
I think this is the sort of thing future employers will look at too so I am keen to keep blogging!
Edit: I actually have another week until the hand in!
Live Brief - Theatre Orb update
I sent Craig a text over the weekend (he said it was fine to do so) saying that I had mailed him some designs for him to look at for Theatre Orb, and he replied on Sat evening with:
"Hi James, apologies for the late text. Thanks for the text and email, will take a look and be in touch asap. I need to get together with my colleague and make a final decision on designs"
So I will be checking my inbox regularly for some feedaback!
"Hi James, apologies for the late text. Thanks for the text and email, will take a look and be in touch asap. I need to get together with my colleague and make a final decision on designs"
So I will be checking my inbox regularly for some feedaback!
Clockworx not working
I have now called Clockworx three times regarding the position they have available for a Junior Designer with no joy!
Every time I call the person I need to speak with is unavailable and hasn't returned my calls, so I'm going to presume that they aren't that keen on my application. Hardly a surprise as they are looking for a full time designer and I could only do 25-30 hours per week.
I'm still keeping my eyes open for further opportunities and I will still try to speak with someone at Clockworx, just for some feedback as to why I haven't been successful.
Every time I call the person I need to speak with is unavailable and hasn't returned my calls, so I'm going to presume that they aren't that keen on my application. Hardly a surprise as they are looking for a full time designer and I could only do 25-30 hours per week.
I'm still keeping my eyes open for further opportunities and I will still try to speak with someone at Clockworx, just for some feedback as to why I haven't been successful.
Sunday 14 February 2010
Live brief - image consultants update
I had some samples printed of this business card last week for the client. They love the design and are really happy with the outcome but after conducting some market research (a little late in the day maybe?) are considering changing the wording of the card from "Image Consul
tant" to "Stylist" as the research concluded that not enough people were familiar with the original term but could relate more to stylist.
I am awaiting confirmation of the change but it will only be this that changes (I hope) and after this, the client has asked me to begin work on a website. Due to my work and Uni commitments I have said that I can't really dedicate much time until I have finished my Professional Project but I will start on it as soon as I can.
I kept the silhouette from the design I made in the summer but have used a more simple colour palette and changed the typeface to Gill Sans. It has a more professionals feel than the previous card and makes the company a lot more approachable and friendly.
tant" to "Stylist" as the research concluded that not enough people were familiar with the original term but could relate more to stylist.I am awaiting confirmation of the change but it will only be this that changes (I hope) and after this, the client has asked me to begin work on a website. Due to my work and Uni commitments I have said that I can't really dedicate much time until I have finished my Professional Project but I will start on it as soon as I can.
I kept the silhouette from the design I made in the summer but have used a more simple colour palette and changed the typeface to Gill Sans. It has a more professionals feel than the previous card and makes the company a lot more approachable and friendly.
Saturday 13 February 2010
D&AD Update
After coming up with very little on my own for the D&AD briefs I was asked if I would like to join up with Wen and Claire to work on the Metro brief.
I don't usually work with others as my timetable is taken up with work but Claire also works and I hope we can find time for all of us to meet up and produce something. If I have time I would still like to work on the Quaker Oats packaging design, but now that my Professional project is underway I will have to see what time I have available and if it will be realistic.
I don't usually work with others as my timetable is taken up with work but Claire also works and I hope we can find time for all of us to meet up and produce something. If I have time I would still like to work on the Quaker Oats packaging design, but now that my Professional project is underway I will have to see what time I have available and if it will be realistic.
Sony Fallon Split
I read in CR and Campaign that Sony have moved their advertising account to Anomaly from Fallon, resulting in the split of one of the most successful advertising partnerships for a decade.
I always thought Fallon were one of, if not the best, ad agency in the world and for Sony to move their account is bad news for them and other ad agencies as it must make them feel what more can they do?
Anomaly are a strategic thinking company rather than a design/advertising agency and its said the split was not acrimonious and purely marketing strategies.
Fallon recently lost the ASDA account to Saatchi and Saatchi too, so maybe their crown is slipping? Regardless of this, the Ads they produced for Sony will, I think, go down as some of the best in television advertising history.
Apparently the brief they were given was short and sweet: show the world how great the colour is on a SONY tv!
SONY Balls
SONY paint
I always thought Fallon were one of, if not the best, ad agency in the world and for Sony to move their account is bad news for them and other ad agencies as it must make them feel what more can they do?
Anomaly are a strategic thinking company rather than a design/advertising agency and its said the split was not acrimonious and purely marketing strategies.
Fallon recently lost the ASDA account to Saatchi and Saatchi too, so maybe their crown is slipping? Regardless of this, the Ads they produced for Sony will, I think, go down as some of the best in television advertising history.
Apparently the brief they were given was short and sweet: show the world how great the colour is on a SONY tv!
SONY Balls
SONY paint
Theatre Orb
I have just sent off around 15 logo designs to Craig for his theatre company. I had planned to send him something earlier in the week but I was busy with work and trying to make some progress for my professional project so I hope that he hasn't already chosen another design. He said he wanted to see designs by Mid Feb so it should be fine.
Thursday 4 February 2010
Live Brief - MADD Events - more communication!
Having been hassled...sorry, contacted again by the MADD Events group, this time via text, I have liaised with Claire and taken the CMYK values of her design and changed mine appropriately.
The MADD team seem quite stressed as their deadline draws closer. In fact, as their deadline draws closer, so does mine. At first it was by Fri afternoon, then by Thurs afternoon and now it is by Thurs early afternoon! Despite the moving of the goal posts, I have met the deadline, mainly because the changes required were minimal and also because I managed my time well in order to be able to complete the design with the minimum fuss.
I was unsure of what format to pass the logo to the MADD group and Claire said the best way was a high resolution JPeg and as a pdf. document. Never send the original was also stressed! Obvious thing to say but I was going to until told otherwise, another lesson learned!
I have now mailed the final logo to the group and they have asked to meet tomorrow (Fri 5th) to go over a few things with Claire and myself. I'm not sure what more there is to discuss but I will attend the meeting regardless.
The MADD team seem quite stressed as their deadline draws closer. In fact, as their deadline draws closer, so does mine. At first it was by Fri afternoon, then by Thurs afternoon and now it is by Thurs early afternoon! Despite the moving of the goal posts, I have met the deadline, mainly because the changes required were minimal and also because I managed my time well in order to be able to complete the design with the minimum fuss.
I was unsure of what format to pass the logo to the MADD group and Claire said the best way was a high resolution JPeg and as a pdf. document. Never send the original was also stressed! Obvious thing to say but I was going to until told otherwise, another lesson learned!
I have now mailed the final logo to the group and they have asked to meet tomorrow (Fri 5th) to go over a few things with Claire and myself. I'm not sure what more there is to discuss but I will attend the meeting regardless.
Wednesday 3 February 2010
Live Brief - MADD Events - Success!!!
I'm delighted that the MADD Events team have chosen one of my logos for their final design. I actually put more effort into the logo they didn't choose -and the one they are going to use I actually produced in an about a couple of hours, from start to finish!
They have asked me to make some changes but they shouldn't take long.
I really think I have learned so much from this process. Working to deadlines, keeping a professional and constant dialogue with the client and also keeping promises and doing something when I have said I would.
I know other students had produced logos, most of them were of a really high standard, but I kept in regular contact with the client and turned around amendments quickly, within 24 hours of receiving the feedback and made suggestions and offered further ideas on my designs. I think this helped, as from the clients point of view I could be trusted to finish what I had started and they probably felt assured from our constant communication.
Its been a great experience, from receiving and interpreting the brief through to the communication with the client and producing the final designs.
I think all this will be valuable to further my career and although I am very pleased to have my design chosen, I have taken even more satisfaction from complete process of seeing something develop on a layout pad, rendered using my software skills (something I could still improve but wouldn't have been able to do 18 months ago) and all the communication, feedback and liaison with the client.
They have asked me to make some changes but they shouldn't take long.
I really think I have learned so much from this process. Working to deadlines, keeping a professional and constant dialogue with the client and also keeping promises and doing something when I have said I would.
I know other students had produced logos, most of them were of a really high standard, but I kept in regular contact with the client and turned around amendments quickly, within 24 hours of receiving the feedback and made suggestions and offered further ideas on my designs. I think this helped, as from the clients point of view I could be trusted to finish what I had started and they probably felt assured from our constant communication.
Its been a great experience, from receiving and interpreting the brief through to the communication with the client and producing the final designs.
I think all this will be valuable to further my career and although I am very pleased to have my design chosen, I have taken even more satisfaction from complete process of seeing something develop on a layout pad, rendered using my software skills (something I could still improve but wouldn't have been able to do 18 months ago) and all the communication, feedback and liaison with the client.
Live Brief - MADD Events -feedback on re design
Email from Alycia, organiser for MADD Events Team:
Hi James,
Once these minor amendments have been made, please can you send the logo over to me ASAP, in the best resolution.
Could I take your mobile number please?
Regards
Alycia
Hi James,
Apologies for the delay in getting back to you.
Having met with my team members yesterday, I can now confirm that we would like to use the 'Spectacle in the Square' logo design on page 14 of your latest document. Unfortunately we have decided to go with another design for our 'MADD Events' logo.
We love the use of colour in this design. There are just a couple of changes - please can the you swap the two colours over for the words 'Spectacle' and 'The' ('Spectacle' = blue and 'The' = green). We would like to use the same shade of blue as the shade that is being used by Claire Hughes in her 'MADD Events' logo design. I have sent her an email asking for the exact shade but if you see her first, then please liaise.
Finally, we have decided against incorporating the slogan in the design - so please can you remove - and we don't want the logo in a blue box (as presented).
Could I take your mobile number please?
Regards
Alycia
Sunday 31 January 2010
Job search - Clockworx
We received an email saying there was a position at Clockworx Design in Poole for a junior designer/artworker this week, so I decided to go for it!
This is exactly the sort of career start I'm looking for. They specialise in branding, print, advertising and digital design and have some important clients like L'Oreal, Sony Pictures and, a favourite of mine for many reasons, Dorset Cereals! The re branding of Dorset Cereals around 18 months ago was very impressive, I loved it, it's been hugely successful and it looks wonderful. I particularly like the typeface they chose for it.
However, the position is full time and obviously I can't work Monday to Friday, but I emailed them and asked them to consider my application and would they consider a reduced hours (say 25-30 hours/week) until I finish my studies this summer. I am working those hours currently and believe I could still dedicate enough time to my studies whilst giving Clockworx all I can during the rest of the week.
I got an Out Of Office response so I will re-send my application on Tuesday, when they are back in the office and hope that it is well received.
This would be a fantastic opportunity!
This is exactly the sort of career start I'm looking for. They specialise in branding, print, advertising and digital design and have some important clients like L'Oreal, Sony Pictures and, a favourite of mine for many reasons, Dorset Cereals! The re branding of Dorset Cereals around 18 months ago was very impressive, I loved it, it's been hugely successful and it looks wonderful. I particularly like the typeface they chose for it.
However, the position is full time and obviously I can't work Monday to Friday, but I emailed them and asked them to consider my application and would they consider a reduced hours (say 25-30 hours/week) until I finish my studies this summer. I am working those hours currently and believe I could still dedicate enough time to my studies whilst giving Clockworx all I can during the rest of the week.
I got an Out Of Office response so I will re-send my application on Tuesday, when they are back in the office and hope that it is well received.
This would be a fantastic opportunity!
Live Brief - MADD Events development
I have developed my logo ideas for MADD Events to incorporate the word "events" into the title. I have produced a 16 page pdf. document of different ideas and hopefully they will be well received...except they can't be at the moment as the blackboards/outlook mail server isn't working.
Initially the deadline is today, so I'll keep trying. I think Alycia has been ill recently and she did say we could maybe meet early next week to discuss ideas, so I don't think it will be a problem if she receives them tomorrow rather than today.
It was hard to include the word events in the title, because they had chosen one of my designs that was quite compact initially. I did some research in some of my recently acquired books but struggled to find a solution. As is the way sometimes, the idea came to me around midnight last night, when I was just about to turn off my computer and call it a day. I cam up with two more designs which I am quite pleased with and don't alter the original too much. Neither are particularly groundbreaking, but sometimes the
most simple and obvious...just works!
Maybe I should take more breaks?
1) I decided to use Gill Sans for the word event, as it doesn't detract from the original design and sits well with the logo. It also contrasts from the heavier Helvetica font. It makes it quite elegant and keeps the logo to good proportions.
2) I decided to use the M character to place the word events. This keeps the over
all proportions similar to the original but as it is white on green it also draws the eye to it.
These are my two favourite re designs, which experience tells me they won't get chosen!
Initially the deadline is today, so I'll keep trying. I think Alycia has been ill recently and she did say we could maybe meet early next week to discuss ideas, so I don't think it will be a problem if she receives them tomorrow rather than today.
It was hard to include the word events in the title, because they had chosen one of my designs that was quite compact initially. I did some research in some of my recently acquired books but struggled to find a solution. As is the way sometimes, the idea came to me around midnight last night, when I was just about to turn off my computer and call it a day. I cam up with two more designs which I am quite pleased with and don't alter the original too much. Neither are particularly groundbreaking, but sometimes the
most simple and obvious...just works!Maybe I should take more breaks?
1) I decided to use Gill Sans for the word event, as it doesn't detract from the original design and sits well with the logo. It also contrasts from the heavier Helvetica font. It makes it quite elegant and keeps the logo to good proportions.
2) I decided to use the M character to place the word events. This keeps the over
all proportions similar to the original but as it is white on green it also draws the eye to it.These are my two favourite re designs, which experience tells me they won't get chosen!
Dreamweaver abc
In what is turning out to be yet another busy weekend - aren't they all? - I have just completed my work for the dreamweaver abc certificate. I'm not overly interested in web design although I did enjoy producing my portfolio site for our most recent unit, and the more strings to my bow, the better.
I have zipped the file to mail it to Neil, but the bloody blackboard mail service is under maintenance so I can't send it! I will keep trying and hopefully get it done later today. I'm at work 8-6 tomorrow so no chance of getting into uni! Fingers crossed it's up and working again soon!
I have zipped the file to mail it to Neil, but the bloody blackboard mail service is under maintenance so I can't send it! I will keep trying and hopefully get it done later today. I'm at work 8-6 tomorrow so no chance of getting into uni! Fingers crossed it's up and working again soon!
Live Brief - Theatre Orb
I met with Craig Norman about the Theatre Orb brief on Weds.
He was very clear about what he is looking for. He already has a colleague working on a website so all he needs at the moment is a logo for his new company. It is a theatre company specialising in new writing (from the last 20 years) and is therefore looking for quite a contemporary design that is bold and accessible with a target audience of 15-35 year-olds. His would like it to be grey, blue, black - simple and classy. Sounds perfect for me.
As some ideas of logos that he likes and inspiration, he has given us the following:
saltfactory
shared experience
platform4
actorsofdionysus
so I plan to do some research and have some initial ideas to send to him within a week. The deadline he set is mid February as his first production starts in April and he will need to have flyers, website and other media prepared to advertise the performance.
Sometimes clients know what they want but cannot explain it and the worst are the ones who have no idea and can't help you at all! I like the fact that Craig seems to know what he wants and can also articulate that to me. The brief seems clear and understandable from my point of a view and with a clear deadline to work to. He has provided 2 email address to send work to or ask any questions. So far it seems like a great brief with clear instructions. What could possibly go wrong?
He was very clear about what he is looking for. He already has a colleague working on a website so all he needs at the moment is a logo for his new company. It is a theatre company specialising in new writing (from the last 20 years) and is therefore looking for quite a contemporary design that is bold and accessible with a target audience of 15-35 year-olds. His would like it to be grey, blue, black - simple and classy. Sounds perfect for me.
As some ideas of logos that he likes and inspiration, he has given us the following:
saltfactory
shared experience
platform4
actorsofdionysus
so I plan to do some research and have some initial ideas to send to him within a week. The deadline he set is mid February as his first production starts in April and he will need to have flyers, website and other media prepared to advertise the performance.
Sometimes clients know what they want but cannot explain it and the worst are the ones who have no idea and can't help you at all! I like the fact that Craig seems to know what he wants and can also articulate that to me. The brief seems clear and understandable from my point of a view and with a clear deadline to work to. He has provided 2 email address to send work to or ask any questions. So far it seems like a great brief with clear instructions. What could possibly go wrong?
Live Brief - Panda On A Bike
The designs for Panda On A Bike are complete. I visited the client this weekend and after the trial print run, a few changes were made (like putting the correct postcode!) and he and I are both happy to get the final printing done.
In total I have produced a logo, invoice sheet, headed paper and compliments slip. No business cards as yet as he is still in employment and would like to keep it discreet. There is a possibility of a web page to show off previous work, but this will be further down the line.
I have learned how to see a project through to completion, from the initial sketched to the final printing process. Working in Image XL last summer helped me understand the printing process quite well and I was able to suggest to my client paper weights for the printing and also had an idea of costs.
It has taken time to complete but as he is often busy it can be hard to locate him, even on his mobile or through his mail. Basically I just pestered the heck out of him when I needed some information and finally got it. I imagine working in industry will be similar, although as I know this client I was able to hassle them more than I would a professional client.
He has sent off invoices for work he has completed but as I haven't worked on anything yet, I have no client based work to show. But with his contacts we are hoping that in the summer, when I am more available, we will work more closely on projects.
In total I have produced a logo, invoice sheet, headed paper and compliments slip. No business cards as yet as he is still in employment and would like to keep it discreet. There is a possibility of a web page to show off previous work, but this will be further down the line.
I have learned how to see a project through to completion, from the initial sketched to the final printing process. Working in Image XL last summer helped me understand the printing process quite well and I was able to suggest to my client paper weights for the printing and also had an idea of costs.
It has taken time to complete but as he is often busy it can be hard to locate him, even on his mobile or through his mail. Basically I just pestered the heck out of him when I needed some information and finally got it. I imagine working in industry will be similar, although as I know this client I was able to hassle them more than I would a professional client.
He has sent off invoices for work he has completed but as I haven't worked on anything yet, I have no client based work to show. But with his contacts we are hoping that in the summer, when I am more available, we will work more closely on projects.
Live Brief - Master Aerials
This is an advert I did for Yellow Pages for a friends business.
It was the first time away from my University work, that I've worked to a strict deadline. The final design had to be completed and sent to Yellow pages by September and I was asked to start work on it at the beginning of August. This gave me plenty of time but I was still nervous until final approval had been given by my friend and also Yellow Pages.
The design was completed within a week. I then emailed a copy to the client, who asked for some small changes (make the telephone numbers bigger) and amended as requested. I printed an actual size copy of the add and showed it to the client, as it would look on completion.
I then made copies for him and he emailed it to Yellow Pages, who replied with a confirmation that everything was fine and it was ready to print.
The design part wasn't hard as the client knew exactly what they wanted and I understood the brief as it was so clear, but they insisted on sitting next to me, directing every move! This is very frustrating. Eventually he let me do my own thing and when he left the room to put the kettle on (my request) I drew up a basic layout which he liked. I completed the advert later in the week, without the client being present.
I learned how hard it can be to take direction from someone who doesn't necessarily have much knowledge of design and layout. However, as he is the client I had to be respectful and do as I was asked, even though the final design is different from what he had in mind.
I have kept all email correspondence as a record.
Thursday 28 January 2010
Live brief - MADD Events Further Feedback
Thanks James; I will look forward to receiving those amendments shortly.
With regards to the colour of the 'Spectacle in the Square' logo, I think it would be nice to see a few different colours and we can then make a decision based on which one we like the best.
Unfortunately I can't meet with you this week but I am around on Monday. Once I have received your designs on Sunday, I can let you know whether or not we have chosen to use any of your work and if so, arrange to meet with you to discuss the next step.
Should you be interested, I do have another project that I would like to work with Visual Comms Students on. I am sending the brief over to Neil today.
Thanks for your time, your effort hasn't gone unnoticed.
Have a good weekend and I'll look forward to seeing the amendments.
Kindest regards,
Alycia
P.S. Should you have time to design any more 'Spectacle in the Square' logos, it would be nice to see some comparisons.
With regards to the colour of the 'Spectacle in the Square' logo, I think it would be nice to see a few different colours and we can then make a decision based on which one we like the best.
Unfortunately I can't meet with you this week but I am around on Monday. Once I have received your designs on Sunday, I can let you know whether or not we have chosen to use any of your work and if so, arrange to meet with you to discuss the next step.
Should you be interested, I do have another project that I would like to work with Visual Comms Students on. I am sending the brief over to Neil today.
Thanks for your time, your effort hasn't gone unnoticed.
Have a good weekend and I'll look forward to seeing the amendments.
Kindest regards,
Alycia
P.S. Should you have time to design any more 'Spectacle in the Square' logos, it would be nice to see some comparisons.
Live brief - MADD Events Communication
Subject: RE: Feedback on Logo Designs for MADD Events and 'Spectacle in the Square'
> Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 10:31:20 +0000
> From: 3185292@aucb.ac.uk
> To: aly67_2000@hotmail.com
>
> Hi Alycia
>
> Thank you for your feedback, it was great to hear you and your teams views and I apologise for not being able to present my ideas to you all myself, I had to work.
>
> I'm delighted that you are interested in two of my designs. I will incorporate the word "events" into the logo and send it to you when it is complete. If you wish to make any changes from there, please let me know.
>
> I will also amend the 2nd logo (spectacle in the square) to be more eye catching, bold and spread the tag line over two lines; as per your comments. Are you happy with the colours for this logo or would you prefer a change?
>
> I will send both the amended logos as soon as they are finished.
>
> If you wish to meet to discuss any ideas further, you can email me to arrange a time. I am free all this week and if necessary this weekend too.
>
> Regards
> James
> Date: Thu, 28 Jan 2010 10:31:20 +0000
> From: 3185292@aucb.ac.uk
> To: aly67_2000@hotmail.com
>
> Hi Alycia
>
> Thank you for your feedback, it was great to hear you and your teams views and I apologise for not being able to present my ideas to you all myself, I had to work.
>
> I'm delighted that you are interested in two of my designs. I will incorporate the word "events" into the logo and send it to you when it is complete. If you wish to make any changes from there, please let me know.
>
> I will also amend the 2nd logo (spectacle in the square) to be more eye catching, bold and spread the tag line over two lines; as per your comments. Are you happy with the colours for this logo or would you prefer a change?
>
> I will send both the amended logos as soon as they are finished.
>
> If you wish to meet to discuss any ideas further, you can email me to arrange a time. I am free all this week and if necessary this weekend too.
>
> Regards
> James
Live brief - MADD Events Feedback
Thank you very much for submitting your designs for our logo; we are very impressed by the standard and versatility of your work.
We particularly like the logo on page three of your document; we are fond of the colours and the simplicity of your design. However, we would like to see this redesigned incorporating the word ‘Events’ as our company name is MADD Events and we feel this is an important part of our title.
When we first saw the logo designs on page eight of your document, we really liked the style and the use of the figure and the stars. However, on reflection, we would like to see this redesigned so that it is more bold and eye-catching and more suitable for using on a poster (rather than a letterhead). In your redesign, we would also like to see the tagline spread over two lines and the event title ‘Spectacle in the Square’ flipped (so that it’s on the right-hand side).
With regards to your other designs, although we did like them, we felt that those mentioned above better suited our style and vision.
Thank you very much for your time and we look forward to seeing the amended logos by Sunday 31st January. Please send them to 3180157@aucb.ac.uk.
Alycia Maylen
Marketing and PR Manager
Tuesday 26 January 2010
Birthday books & D&AD
As it was my birthday last week, I asked for books when the obvious question came along. So what did I get I hear you ask? Only these little beauties:
Typography (Ambrose/Harris)
Logo (Evamy, Michael)
Guerrilla Advertising (Lucas, Gavin)
Design Matters: Logos (Various)
The Art of looking sideways (Fletcher, Alan)
Grids (Ambrose/Harris)
Quite happy with those, as you'd imagine. I had flicked through most of them previously or loaned them from the library, but now they're all mine! I'm starting to build up quite an impressive library of my own actually.
And for those of you paying attention, the also recently acquired (at large expense) Grid Systems in Graphic Design (Muller-Brockamn) was a really good purchase. I was concerned with paying over £35 for it but it's currently on amazon for £50, so I actually think I did quite well.
D&AD
I am going to attempt the Quaker Oats packaging brief for D&AD and I will be working on my own. Its hard to find time to work with others although these briefs seem quite intimidating and the chance to work with someone would be good. I may complete more than one brief as I like the look of The Bodyshop, Metro, Elmwood and LBi briefs too.
Probably a bit ambitious to have a go at all of them though!
Typography (Ambrose/Harris)
Logo (Evamy, Michael)
Guerrilla Advertising (Lucas, Gavin)
Design Matters: Logos (Various)
The Art of looking sideways (Fletcher, Alan)
Grids (Ambrose/Harris)
Quite happy with those, as you'd imagine. I had flicked through most of them previously or loaned them from the library, but now they're all mine! I'm starting to build up quite an impressive library of my own actually.
And for those of you paying attention, the also recently acquired (at large expense) Grid Systems in Graphic Design (Muller-Brockamn) was a really good purchase. I was concerned with paying over £35 for it but it's currently on amazon for £50, so I actually think I did quite well.
D&AD
I am going to attempt the Quaker Oats packaging brief for D&AD and I will be working on my own. Its hard to find time to work with others although these briefs seem quite intimidating and the chance to work with someone would be good. I may complete more than one brief as I like the look of The Bodyshop, Metro, Elmwood and LBi briefs too.
Probably a bit ambitious to have a go at all of them though!
Live Brief - MADD Events
I have produced some logo ideas for a live brief from a group of students studying a BA (Hons) in Event management.
The company is called "MADD Events" (Music, Arts, Drama, Dance) and they needed a company logo and also a logo for an event this summer called " Showcasing Bournemouth's Performing Arts on a Journey Through 200 Years".
With so many elements to focus on in the title of the company and the event, it was hard to know where to concentrate my efforts. I chose to go with bright colours and bold typography, to reflect the energy and impact of music, arts, drama and dance.
The turnaround was quite quick, which should help me when I'm working in industry to get ideas down and develop them. With my working commitments I wasn't able to dedicate as much time to it as I would have liked, but the most frustrating aspect was I was unable to present my ideas in person for the same reason. I would have enjoyed to hear the feedback they gave first hand as it would have been very valuable and influence how I work on future projects
The company is called "MADD Events" (Music, Arts, Drama, Dance) and they needed a company logo and also a logo for an event this summer called " Showcasing Bournemouth's Performing Arts on a Journey Through 200 Years".
With so many elements to focus on in the title of the company and the event, it was hard to know where to concentrate my efforts. I chose to go with bright colours and bold typography, to reflect the energy and impact of music, arts, drama and dance.
The turnaround was quite quick, which should help me when I'm working in industry to get ideas down and develop them. With my working commitments I wasn't able to dedicate as much time to it as I would have liked, but the most frustrating aspect was I was unable to present my ideas in person for the same reason. I would have enjoyed to hear the feedback they gave first hand as it would have been very valuable and influence how I work on future projects
Friday 22 January 2010
Live brief - image consultants
For one of my live briefs I have been re designing a logo and stationary pack for an Image Consultants.
I have managed to get hold of the previous image, which they were looking to change for two reasons. Firstly, the image looks a little dated but most importantly, they are now in the UK and need business cards etc., made for the UK market.
I first re designed the card last summer, but the client has since decided to adapt that design for something more subtle. I am looking to change the typeface and overall layout, keeping only the silhouette. It will be posted as soon as its finished!
Sunday 17 January 2010
Peugeot Re brand
Not a car enthusiast myself but I spotted that Peugoet have re branded themselves with a new logo.
It's not often that a huge multinational company does this, and even less so considering the current financial climate but it is to celebrate 200 years of the brand.
The logo is strong but what I particularly like is the typeface they have chosen. I'm not sure what typeface it is, probably developed for Peugeot. It's very smooth and elegant, moving away from the chunky more awkward style of before. This, for me, is the most interesting and important part of the design.
It's certainly modern and fresh looking, but will it work?
It's not often that a huge multinational company does this, and even less so considering the current financial climate but it is to celebrate 200 years of the brand.
The logo is strong but what I particularly like is the typeface they have chosen. I'm not sure what typeface it is, probably developed for Peugeot. It's very smooth and elegant, moving away from the chunky more awkward style of before. This, for me, is the most interesting and important part of the design.
It's certainly modern and fresh looking, but will it work?
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