Monday, 6 May 2019

Self Branding: Research & Solution


The design explored a variety of self-branding projects, noting the aspects that constitute a ‘brand’. This included more minimal approaches, to more extravagant ways of communicated yourself to the world. Creative CV’s were a particular area that showed a selection of out-of-the-box ways of showcasing your originality. In a pile of however-many A4 CV sheets, one can really stand out but considering format and context for presenting themselves. I have always gone against the grain, and so it was important to consider if the design was to reflect me wholly, how to present a part of me to a unsuspecting employer.




The design was also really inspired by old matchbox designs, especially from Japan. Research was conducted into ‘Phillumeny’ - the hobby of collecting different match-related items: matchboxes, matchbox labels, matchbooks, matchcovers, matchsafes, etc, to see the full extent of this design production. The design found an array of intricate designs that play with structural layouts, colour and form. The size of them makes their design particularly applicable to business cards, and thus informed the idea of a series.

The design was thus inspired by old matchbox designs for their:
  • geometric form and grainy texture
  • subtle use of bright colours 
  • interesting grid systems






I also looked on social media at what other designers were producing for their self-branding, and noticed the use of variety. I like the idea of designing a collection of sorts that all link. Different cards may speak more to different clients depending on the colour arrangement. The idea of folds was also noteworthy, in producing a card that comes to life by becoming three-dimensional. The focus was definitely to be on colour and form, utilising shape and grid systems to accentuate type and aesthetic. 






Conclusion 
Words I want to visually communicate:
-       Play
-       Transparency
-       Inclusion / variety
-       Interaction
-       Nostalgia



Concept 

Combining the analogue and digital to produce design that is playful, aesthetic and contextual. There is a strong emphasis on type, colour, layout and format – all the elements that constitute graphic design. That branding seeks to be interactive, utilising stock to create an open and thus inviting experience.

To Produce:
- A postcard series
- Business card series
- Website tumblr style page
- Consistent branding guidelines / colour palette  

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