1. Create 2 Show-Stopping Hero Designs
When you’re designing for an art call, it’s all about making a strong first impression. This means your collection should feature two hero designs that stand out and grab attention. Hero designs are bold, unique, and should instantly align with the brand’s vision. These designs should reflect both your artistic voice and the specific aesthetic the brand is looking for.
- Tip: Limit yourself to only one or two supporting blender designs. You don’t want them to outshine your hero pieces—these are meant to complement and highlight your stars!
Pro Tip: Look for that unique element in your hero designs. What makes your work different from everything else out there? Elevate those qualities to make your work unmistakable.
2. Read the Brief Three Times
Think of the design brief as your roadmap. It outlines the specific requirements, themes, and even the aesthetic preferences the brand or art call organizer wants to see. Too many designers make the mistake of skimming over it and missing crucial details.
Here’s how you can break it down:
- First reading: Get an overall understanding of the project.
- Second reading: Revisit it before you start designing. Ensure you’re still on track with the main themes and requirements.
- Final reading: Right before submission, check your work against the brief. Double-check that you haven’t overlooked any small but important details.
Pro Tip: Take notes as you read! Highlight specific colors, styles, or motifs emphasized in the brief so you can refer back as you design.
3. Stay True to Your Unique Style
While following the brief is essential, staying authentic to your unique style is just as important. Remember, brands choose designers not just for how well they follow directions but for the distinctive qualities they bring to the table. Even as you align with the brand’s aesthetic, make sure your signature style comes through in your designs.
For example, if the art call is about playful, bold designs, think about how you can bring your own twist to that theme. Does your work stand out because of your color choices? Or maybe it’s your intricate patterns? Whatever your artistic strength is, let it shine.
Pro Tip: Strike a balance. Don’t stray too far from the brief, but don’t blend in so much that your design loses its identity.
4. Follow the Color Palette and Theme
If the brief provides a specific color palette or theme, don’t deviate from it. Following these guidelines shows your ability to take direction, a key skill that brands look for when selecting designers. For the Carriage House Printery Art Call, remember the brand is targeting kids, so think fun, playful, and non-traditional colors that pop.
- Tip: While you should adhere to the palette, feel free to experiment with how you combine the colors. This is where your creativity can still shine within the provided framework.
5. Submit a Cohesive Collection
A strong submission isn’t just about individual pieces but how they come together as a cohesive collection. Each design should stand out but also feel like it belongs to the same family in terms of style, color usage, and overall mood. The goal is to create a visually appealing collection that tells a story.
- Tip: Use consistent motifs, textures, or themes across your designs to tie everything together. Even if each piece has its own flair, they should all feel connected.
Pro Tip: Collections that feel disjointed can confuse the viewer. Maintain a consistent tone throughout to make sure your work is seen as a strong, marketable whole.
6. Give Your Work Time to Breathe
One of the best things you can do for your designs is to step back and let them sit for a while before submission. When you return to them with fresh eyes, you’ll likely spot small adjustments or improvements that can make a big difference.
- Tip: If you finish your designs early, use that extra time to review them before the deadline. This breathing space can help you fine-tune your work to perfection.
7. Leverage the Creative Brief Community
Don’t forget, you’re not alone in this journey! The Art Call Chat channel in the Creative Brief community on Discord is an invaluable resource. If you’re stuck or unsure, chances are someone in the community has the answer. Reach out, ask for advice, or just share your progress for feedback!
- Tip: The community is a great place to refine your designs and make sure you’re submitting your best work. Many designers have found incredible support and even collaboration opportunities here.
