Student Spotlight

Here is some of the latest work students are doing in their beginning Illustrator class. They were instructed to make a postcard for their local zoo which had to include at least 4 animals that are drawn completely in Illustrator. This class is a beginning class and some students' first quarter at school. They go from learning the basics of their new Apple computer to being able to create postcards, CD covers and posters all in Adobe Illustrator.

Good work students!

Happy Birthday Helvetica

OK - So, I'm a year late to this party. Helvetica turned 50 last year and there is a new documntary about typography, graphic design and of course the beloved font 'Helvetica.' I saw a blip about this flick last year and then it showed up as an option in my Netflix. So, it is next in my queue and I will give you a review after I've seen it. It looks great.

About the film
"Helvetica is a feature-length independent film about typography, graphic design and global visual culture. It looks at the proliferation of one typeface (which celebrated its 50th birthday in 2007) as part of a larger conversation about the way type affects our lives. The film is an exploration of urban spaces in major cities and the type that inhabits them, and a fluid discussion with renowned designers about their work, the creative process, and the choices and aesthetics behind their use of type.

Helvetica encompasses the worlds of design, advertising, psychology, and communication, and invites us to take a second look at the thousands of words we see every day. The film was shot in high-definition on location in the United States, England, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, France and Belgium."

Here's the link for more information

Design can make a difference

In my Graphic Design 1 class - I have a slide that says "We might not make the world a better place - but we will always make it a prettier place."
I say that tongue-in-cheek because I do believe that great design can have an impact on many levels. I found this website today that matches up creative professionals with non-profit organizations that need design work. Often, these groups can't afford to hire expensive ad agencies and this site is providing a way for designers who want to do pro bono work to find organizations in need. The site is called Designismconnects.org

If you sign up - you can list a creative profile
Click here for more info

GO VOTE!!!

Unless you've been living in a hole - you are aware that today is your opportunity to vote. I went to my location this morning at 8:00 a.m. anticipating headaches and long lines and found neither. And I was also impressed with Utah's touchscreen voting system. I inserted a plastic card, voted on a touchscreen, reviewed my ballot, got a printed copy and then hit submit. It was completely slick and I am proudly wearing my 'I voted' sticker as I type. Whatever obstacles you are facing today, make the time and the effort to vote in this historical election.

In honor of patriotism, I found these historical military posters for your viewing pleasure.