OUGD502 | STUDIO BRIEF 1 | ANORAK TALK

Today we had a talk with Anorak Magazine. Cathy Olmedillas, the founder of Anorak ran the talk and really inspired me. I've been interested in children's design since I designed my Penguin childrens book submission, and Anorak has a certain charm that I would like to achieve with my designs. 

Anorak also run a studio to fund the magazine, and I asked Cathy at the end of the talk whether work experience would be feasible. Unfortunately the studio space is based in London (and very small), so she can't accept any internships at the moment. Anorak is 99% illustrated so it would be difficult for a graphic designer to fit in, though I feel I would like to look more into an illustrative, detailed style.

Cathy has also created Dot, a magazine for younger children with simpler illustrations and colours. I feel my work would be more suited for this magazine as I equally love the style. After talking to Cathy, she encouraged me to send her my CV to get some feedback and possibly pass my name on! Once I have solidified my self branding and promo pack, I'll be contacting her and giving my details. 

This talk has really inspired me to look more into children's design and what the future holds for my career.

OUGD502 | STUDIO BRIEF 1 | INTERVIEW WITH NATASHA

Natasha contacted me again with some extra questions before she uploads the interview to the blog:

What are you expecting from third year?

From what I've heard, quite literally blood, sweat and tears. 3rd year is definitely going to be a challenge but hopefully in the next few months I can start preparing and get my dissertation subject finalised! I'm really hoping to be involved in some really cool projects next year and establish myself within the industry (and hopefully get a job at the end of it!)

Do you know what aspect of the graphic design industry you want to be a part of? (packaging etc)

At the moment I'm really into branding and packaging design, but that may change! I think I have quite a distinct style now, but hopefully that won't hinder my chances of having quite a varied practice. I'm also really interested in making design for children. This year I designed a children's book cover for the Penguin Random House competition and really enjoyed myself, as well as making something I'm proud of! Anorak magazine are a particular inspiration of mine. They make beautifully illustrated magazines for children and I really really love their style. 

Have you engaged with many creatives/practitioners. Could you give me an anecdote of a interaction with them?

As part of one of our modules we had to contact a working designer and create a report about them. It was such a good oppertunity to talk to someone in the field and ask them about the industry. I contacted Matt Baxter from the studio Baxter and Bailey, and he gave me some wonderful advice about starting out in the industry as a graduate. His best piece of advice was to learn the industry first, make mistakes on a salary then go out and try it for yourself! 

The blog is now live and my interview was the first to be featured! You can view it here: http://teaandtalks.tumblr.com/post/139909500847/talk-charlotte-walker

OUGD502 | STUDIO BRIEF 1 | OUGD504 MODULE EVALUATION

This module had many different types of brief, ranging from quick 1 week logo designs, to spending 4 weeks developing a promotional website for a music artist of our choice. Having a wide range of briefs helped me get back into university projects after the summer, and the quick 1 week briefs definitely got me back into it. 

The first brief was to create a leaflet that informed the user of the about The Design Process. This was definitely a good brief to have at the beginning of the year, as it acted as a huge refresher for the process in general. I enjoyed having a short brief at the start of the year, as I was eager to discover the future briefs within the module. The brief itself was quite fun, and experimenting with folds and leaflet design was something new to me. 

The second brief was to pick any project from Kickstarter and create a logo for them. I particularly enjoyed this brief, as it had a “live” element to it, as we were encouraged to speak to the owners of the project and get any feedback we could off them. The project that I chose was the Bagelry based in Liverpool. Their Kickstarter was raising funds for their new cafe. I contacted the owners and they really liked my designs, but unfortunately they’d already purchased everything for the cafe with their existing branding on it. Even though my designs weren’t used, it was a really cool brief and being encouraged to speak to clients and get feedback outside of the classroom was really refreshing! 

Our third brief for the module was an extension of the summer brief. We were to create a publication based around a place we had taken pictures of over the summer. As I was going to Amsterdam in the summer break, I decided to base my publication here. I felt a pressure to get really good images in a short amount of time over the summer, but fortunately I had enough good quality images to fill the publication. Laying out many images over a double page spread wasn’t something I had done before, so I decided to do some primary research for this brief. It was useful to see successful designs and how they were laid out. There were many considerations in this brief, and it showed us that we need to be able to balance lots of different ideas. 

The final brief was set by Only Studio. We were given a brief that they received while working in industry recently, and it was really exciting to see what a “real” brief was like. We had to create a campaign website that was immersive for the user, and boosts record sales for the latest album by an artist of our choice. This brief was very different from all of the briefs we’ve done before. I did struggle quite a lot with getting the design right, as I’ve never created a website or had any experience with UX design. Overall, I enjoyed this brief even though I found it quite challenging. Having the crit with Only was really useful as they had such an in-depth knowledge, and gave me some really valuable feedback.

The diversity of this module has been really enjoyable. It’s been challenging and exciting all of the way through. I did enjoy this module, though looking back I feel as though I could improve some of the work I created. Even though it was a 1 week brief, I think my logo could be more refined and friendly looking. I also feel like the finishes on my publication could be to a better standard as I had to bind it again. This brief has been the start of a huge learning curve for level 5, and I have really enjoyed it. 

OUGD502 | STUDIO BRIEF 1 | COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE REFLECTION

As part of the Responsive module, we have to collaborate with others outside of our field. I am working with a fellow graphic designer and Illustrator.

So far the project is going quite well. We have a good idea and concept, though I'm worried that the differences between Illustration and Graphic Design. We seem to have different design processes, and creating the initial artwork for the project seems to be taking a long time.

I've always found it quite difficult to work in a group on this course, and I feel that I often compromise more than others do. I think its important to find a balance in saying what you want to do and letting others take control of parts of the project. At the moment, the Graphic Designers of the project haven't really had much to do as we're waiting for the completed artwork.

As the deadline for D&AD is in roughly a month, we need to try and do as much work as possible before then! Hopefully we can all work together to finish the project in time, and create something that fits the brief and is considered for a pencil.

OUGD502 | STUDIO BRIEF 1 | INTERVIEW WITH NATASHA

I was recently contacted by a first year student via Twitter as she wanted to interview me for her PPP project. I happily agreed and she sent over the questions this afternoon.

My response: 

1.Why did you choose to come to Leeds College of Art?

Funny story actually. 

I originally applied to the University of Leeds and listed it as my first choice, Northumbria being my second. Leeds is pretty close to where I live, and having somewhere thats only an hour or so on the train is great! Looking around the Uni of Leeds, it was so exciting with all of the huge buildings and events going on - I instantly fell in love with it. I was quite an academic person coming straight from A-levels, so thinking about art school didn’t even cross my mind. 

Then, A-level results day happened. I worked really really hard for my A-levels, but my results just didn’t cut it. I did Physics, Graphic Design and ICT and no guesses for which one let me down! I was utterly devastated, reading my UCAS status saying I was in clearing made my heart sink. My college were really helpful on the day, and I called up a few uni’s there and then! I called Leeds College of Art because I absolutely loved the city and really wanted to go there, and they asked me to come for an interview that day. As nervous as I was, my dad drove me all the way there on short notice (he was in the middle of a game of golf) and I held myself together for my interview. 

Amber and Simon were absolutely lovely, asking me whether I preferred cats or dogs, tea or coffee. They could really see that I wanted to do this course (as most people in clearing just take what they can get), and I was really lucky they had any spaces left! After what seemed like a huge blur, I was stood shaking hands with them and receiving loads of forms, but the best part about that day was running down to my dad in the cafe, telling him great news and sharing a huge hug!

2. What are three things you've learn in uni so far? (can be social etc)

I feel like I’ve developed so much as a person since I began in 2014. I am so much more confident in myself and my work! The 3 most important things I’ve learned so far are:

• Don’t take criticism personally, its a critique of the work - not yourself!
• Its important to take a break every now and then, don’t overwork it.
• As long as you have enough money for food and rent don’t worry! You’re at uni once, you need to have a good time! 

3. What have you enjoyed doing at uni the most?

There’s so many highlights from my uni experience. I think the best thing thats happened so far is moving in with my best friend, Lo. We have so much fun together and can laugh at almost anything! 

Course-related, the best thing thats happened so far is probably seeing how my work has improved over time. Looking at my submission folders for Level 4 is quite embarrassing. 

4. What is your favourite thing to do in Leeds?

I’ve recently been visiting the Hyde Park Picture house quite a lot! It’s right around the corner from my house and they rotate the films around really often. It only has one screen, so the film times can be quite odd but it has a certain charm to it that you can’t find anywhere else! 

5. What made you choose Graphic Design?

I studied Graphic Design at A-level (just on a whim really), and as I had a lot of academic subjects I felt like I wanted an outlet for my creativity. I’ve always been into art and design, so I felt like I’d fit in there great! 

Overtime, I realised I didn’t want to go into Astrophysics or become an IT technician, and Graphics soon became my favourite subject. I looked into it and attended university open days, and that solidified my choice. I loved design, and if I wasn’t studying something I loved doing, what was the point? 

6. Was the course what you expected it to be?

I think the course has gone beyond my expectations. The amount of support and absolutely amazing projects Leeds College of Art has to offer is unbelievable! 2nd year so far has been a time to experiment, and really find where I fit in with the industry as a designer. Over the time I’ve been here, there’s been many visiting professionals, live briefs and exciting projects that really keep you stimulated. Obviously, everyone has a bit of a lul and can become overwhelmed with the workload, but I believe everything they do has a purpose. They’re preparing us for the industry, and isn’t that what its all about?

7. What is the biggest struggled you've faced since being at uni?

My biggest first year struggle was definitely loneliness. I wasn’t in the accommodation where most of my friends lived as I went through clearing, and my flat didn’t really speak much. I often went home and visited my boyfriend, but looking back, it was definitely tough! 

8. How did you overcome this?

Focussing on the course really helped. I enjoyed my work, and doing it gave me a lot of happiness. I also spent a lot of time with my friends during the day at uni, so going back to my flat was sometimes welcome. As I mentioned earlier, I visited home and my boyfriend at the weekends so I filled up a lot of my free time! Keeping busy (and watching Netflix) when you’re on your own really helps.

9. As a second year how do you find the work differs from first year?

We’re given lots more independence this year. We’re encouraged to really push the brief, and the tutors often love it when we do. We’re also told to engage with the industry more. Contact real life graphic designers (scary!) and get our foot in the door. We also have a module focussed just on entering the big design competitions, so that helps us make our way into the industry. 

10. How do you manage your time?

I feel I’m quite good at managing my time. I make a list of EVERYTHING I need to do, and colour code it due to importance. I take this list and break it down into what I want to achieve that day. Making small, obtainable goals is really important so you don’t get overwhelmed! 

Closing questions:

11. What is the best piece of advice you've ever been given? (from a tutor or something like that)

We’re only in the office, come and ask for help. We don’t bite! 

12. What is a piece of advice you would give to someone else? (for example a student or something.)

You don’t HAVE to listen to someones feedback. If you disagree - don’t change anything! Its your work, stand up for it.

I tried to be as in-depth as I could, and give her some useful advice for 2nd year! I really enjoyed writing my answers for this interview, as it prompted me to reflect on my own practice and experiences throughout university so far. The interview is going to be featured on a blog created by Natasha, and I'm looking forward to seeing the outcome! 

OUGD502 | STUDIO BRIEF 1 | ONLINE PRESENCE

In the graphic design industry, its important to have a presence online. I already have a Linkedin and Behance, but everything felt quite muddled and didn't work together.

Twitter:
I decided to create a professional Twitter, as I use my personal Twitter regularly and have gained a substantial amount of followers. Social media is a hugely important tool, which I have already experienced as my job at Sighh came about through an Instagram comment.

My Twitter handle is @charlotte_arts and I will be using it to showcase my work and interact with the graphic design industry. I felt it was time to start making myself known, and showing my work that I'm most proud of. 

Website: 

I also have a website created through Wix. I'm using the free version at the moment, just as a platform to showcase my work in a more pleasing way. 

The website also gives people a chance to contact me as there is a contact page built in. 

http://charlotterosewalker.wix.com/graphicdesign

Behance:

Having a Behance is important to creatives, as its like a Facebook for artists. I've had my Behance page since May 2015, but only recently linked all of my other social media pages to it. 

LinkedIn:

LinkedIn is a place to meet with other professionals, not strictly creative. Its a great platform to connect with other designers and alumni of the university. It also adds to your credibility, as others can endorse you with skills related to your field. 

I'm also looking into making an Instagram for myself, but I feel I need to be producing work more often and more cohesive for that to be feasible at the moment. I'm hoping from creating these pages, I can find some opportunities for myself and become more well known within the field of graphic design. 

OUGD502 | STUDIO BRIEF 1 | ME

Rhys: 

Physically - Good outfit game, loving the septum
Mentally - So so organised, great time management
Socially - Fun, great organiser, more nights out and cheese & wine nights!

Cameron: 

- Very self motivated and driven
- Organised in terms of time management and workload
- Good at developing an idea quickly and efficiently from the initial concept to the finalised design
- Mentally: positive and optimistic about things all of the time
- Socially: Good at understanding and giving advice, good support system
- Self confident, happy in own skin
- Forward thinking

Emily:

Physically - Confident in your own body
Mentally - Very focussed, hard working, fun & positive
Socially - Loving, caring, friendly.

OUGD502 | STUDY TASK 1 | PRESENTATION

OUGD502 | STUDY TASK 1 | LOGO AND SOCIAL MEDIA

Rhys created the logo with input from the team. This is the final design:

We wanted to go for a contemporary feel so we can appear to be "on trend" and showcase work that is also popular at the moment. 

The general aesthetic of the cover of the first issue is very minimal using photography that has quite muted colours. We thought this was a good idea so that it catches peoples attention and contrasts the bold serif logo. We also wanted the work inside the booklet to stand out, which is why we went for a simplistic tone for the publication. 

We chose a selection of unique images that have a collective aesthetic by Jan Vranovsky. We featured these images across social media and the publication for continuity purposes, and this will be a feature throughout each issue. 

Lo created the front cover as lead designer. The front cover features the brightest of the images, enabling us to grab attention while still remaining quite clean. 

Our cover doesn't feature anyone on the front, its more about the work they have created. This creates a juxtaposition between the title and the content, which is quite fitting given what we're setting out to achieve. 

Once we had a solid aesthetic, Jack created the website and various promotions. 

Once we had a solid aesthetic and logo, I began to mock up what the social media would look like. 

As I am in charge of the social media aspect of the company, I will be managing these pages along with email to discuss with potential clients and anyone interested in the magazine. It's important for the social media pages to be consistent with the rest of the brand, as it's most likely the biggest point of contact for consumers who aren't aware of our brand. 

OUGD503 | STUDY TASK 1 | STUDIO SPACE

In the first 12 to 24 months, we will be using our own space to run the magazine. We will put aside money every month for hiring out conference rooms for meetings. This will be considerably cheaper than renting a studio until we get on our feet financially.

Once we have a stable income, we will be looking to move into a studio full time. There are a considerable amount of studio spaces located in Leeds. There are two main studios that would be suitable, Duke Studios and Castleton Mills.

Duke Studio:

Duke Studio is located at No, 3 Sheaf St, Leeds LS10 1HD. Their building is stylish and has a lot of financial options. 

The studio space would be the most beneficial for us as it has a dedicated phone line, free meeting room hire and a contract length of 1 year. 

Castleton Mills:

Castleton Mills is located at Castleton Mill, Castleton Close Leeds LS12 2DR. The studio rent is £3600p/a and deposit is £600. Their studio space is light and airy and works out much cheaper than Duke Studios. We can hold meetings in our studio to give clients a feel of our work ethic and studio structure.