February 05, 2010
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On Wednesday, January 13, 2010, twenty-four professionals from a range of fields gathered at the ImaginOn to participate in AIGA Charlotte's first "Eat Your Greens" event. The discussion served as a "Sustainability Roundtable," with everybody contributing and exchanging ideas. The event was put together by the AIGA Charlotte Green Team made up of Trent Edwards, John Howard, Jenna MacFarlane, Rachel Martin and Luke Atkinson. The Green Team's mission is to promote sustainability and socially responsible design within our local design community and at all AIGA Charlotte events. Leigh Brinkley of Brinkley Design, served as the moderator for the event and kicked things off by going through some of the ways she incorporates green practices into her lifestyle, hammering home the idea that it's hard to, "Separate my thinking about sustainability as a design issue and thinking about it as a way of life." From there, the discussion touched upon a variety of issues and…
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December 08, 2009
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Last week AIGA Charlotte members met to boycott outsourcing and foreign manufacturers. Well kinda. After we wiped the sleep out of our eyes and consumed a healthy dose of caffeine, discussions about what to make this gift-giving season ensued for over an hour. Holiday DIY (design it yourself) was the topic du jour. And if you’re strapped for cash, looking for a creative outlet, or on a mission to make a smaller carbon footprint (because those tiny coal shoes didn’t work), then this Buzz is for you. Topics ranged from places to find handmade inspiration in Charlotte, to web resources, and what to make for all those special (read as: materialistic) family members and friends. For those of you unable to make it, but still desperate for ideas, here’s a quick recap (please feel free to add additional ideas/resources in the comments section): ///RESEARCH/// Places to find Inspiration: Paper Skyscraper (Dilworth) Boulevard (NoDa) Hong Kong (Plaza Mid) Handpicked (Dilworth) Boris…
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November 02, 2009
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On Friday, October 23rd we held our annual Fall Studio Tour and took about 25 students from UNC Charlotte, The Art Institute of Charlotte, Appalachian State, CPCC, and even one student on fall break from Taylor University in Indiana to four different firms in town: BOLTgroup, WrayWard, Mode, and Hawse Design. The following is a recap from 2 students of their experience during the Fall Studio Tour. Andrea Gregory CPCC AIGA Student Group Awesome! Our hosts were very accommodating and genuinely interested in helping to educate students about the opportunities and networking available to them. I can't truly describe the gratitude I have for them taking time to give back and mentor others. It's like having an extended family! Our tour included small to large firms, from 5 employees to 70 employees. It gave insight to working in intimate surroundings to expansive surroundings, all with a very open and collaborative theme. A common theme for all of the firms was high energy, enthusiasm, collaboration,…
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September 28, 2009
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In August, I had the honor of presenting at the Designers Accord Charlotte Town Hall which was a great success and the first ever in the southeast hosted by BOLTgroup. At the event I discussed what AIGA and the AIGA Center for Sustainable Design are doing to empower designers with resources to help them to create positive environmental and social impacts. I spoke about how AIGA endorses the Designers Accord to reflect its continued commitment to inspiring sustainable business practices in the design profession that imparts the value of sustainable design at every level. Some inititiaves that AIGA has been involved with which reflect this commitment are: The Aspen Design Challenge The Aspen Design Challenge is a global AIGA project to invite faculty and students from around the world to take on a major global problem and develop projects that demonstrate the value of design thinking. This year’s theme was Designing Water’s Future. Seven projects were selected from entries from…
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September 02, 2009
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The topic of the September AIGA BuzZ was freelancing for friends, family, and trade; is it worth it. I, John Howard a local freelancer hosted the BuzZ that was held at our new meeting location at Amelie's Bakery in NODA. Maybe it was the environment, or perhaps it was the topic, either way everyone was very engaged and there was a lot to say whether it's worth it. Below are some of the questions asked to the group as well as three stories of nightmarish situations that have happend to my friends. Question 1: Who's the worst to do work for, friends, family or probono? As we went around the room everyone seemed to lean towards family. Working with family members is tough and complicated and it usually comes down to them not separating you from the kid you once were. Family members also have a special way of bringing their issues into the project that makes the whole experience a bit of a headache. Friends seemed to be the second trickiest because they also don't have a clue as to what you…
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June 04, 2009
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Thursday evening, May 14th at the Charlotte Chamber capped a perfect day with Patrick Coyne. Charlotte's creative community -- copywriters, designers, educators, photographers and students flocked into the hall and enjoyed a lively reception, mingling with Patrick before the evening presentation began. Earlier in the day, Patrick conducted a portfolio review with local design students and awarded Ellen Dykes from Winthrop University with a free subscription to CA for the most compelling portfolio. Mr. Coyne's tour of the Southeast began on May 10th in Hampton Roads, Virginia followed by Richmond, Raleigh, Charlotte and was to wind down the following day in Columbia, South Carolina. All five of the AIGA Chapters pulled together to sponsor and host Patrick's presentations. Like Charlotte, several of the Chapters organized student activities. For the Charlotte student runners up, Patrick personally autographed 50th Anniversary Annuals for each. As Patrick stepped out in front of an attentive…
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April 10, 2009
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Designers from across the state came out this weekend to celebrate the Carolina's most creative design at AIGA Charlotte's BOOM! Gala and Exhibition. The BOOM! competition had over 440 entries of which our judges selected 96 amazing winners. All winning work was displayed at the Gala for attendees to view as they mixed and mingled with our cross-Carolinas crowd. Attendees consistently remarked on the incredibly high caliber of work that was displayed -- North Carolina we should be proud! The Gala's opening reception was followed by a video presentation of the competition's awards. AIGA Charlotte Board member, Trent Edwards cleverly combined the awards presentation with kinetic type interpretations of audio quotes from Debbie Millman's radio show Design Matters. Following the video, fellow Board member, Nikki Mueller announced BOOM's top awards: BEST OF SHOW Mitre Agency for: "Brew Nerds Brand Identity" BEST USE OF PRINTING The Catevo Group for: "IRS Poster" BEST USE…
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March 10, 2009
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On a glorious Saturday afternoon in the not too distant past a handful of AIGA Charlotte members trekked to Raleigh to hear Chip Kidd speak. The carpooling teams made great time and the driving weather couldn't have been more favorable. At the opening reception, we were able to mingle with Raleigh Board members, in some cases meeting our 'counter parts' which was quite enjoyable. We met educators and fellow designers and were able to chat about our different though similar design landscapes. Chip Kidd delivered a speech which often had the audience giggling uncontrollably. He is very, very funny as a speaker and I found myself actually slapping my knee without realizing. He both illuminated with examples of inspired design work and capitulated, letting us in on his 'ordinary' challenges designers face every day while presenting great designs that sometimes don't fly. He let us in on his life and an interesting one it is. Chip has held the same post as Art Director at Knopf for over twenty…
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March 09, 2009
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So, the days are counting down until the unveiling of the winners of this year's BOOM! design competition. While I can understand the excruciating agony it must be to keep waiting to see if your work was selected, on the other hand I've appreciated the luxury of time it gave me to get around to penning some thoughts on judging the show. First let me say that coming out to judge the BOOM! entries was a fabulous experience. The city of Charlotte is truly a crown jewel, and Carolyn and all of the hosts from AIGA Charlotte made us feel right at home. (Not to mention the support provided by Scott McClure and AIGA Raleigh.) Shane and his team ran an efficient and seamless judging weekend, and I have no doubt the exhibition will come off without a hitch. It was an honor and a pleasure partnering with the lovely Kenna Kay and the suave Josh Silverman to judge the show. I think we worked really well as a team, and despite coming from different backgrounds and places, regularly found common ground…
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March 04, 2009
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Wondering if your portfolio is up to par and if you’re ready to take it on an interview? Now’s your chance to find out from local professionals in your field! Students and recent graduates (open to graduates after Dec 1, 2008 and current students) this is your opportunity to get feedback on your portfolio from Charlotte area professionals! Since space is limited, please sign up today to reserve your spot. $25 for Student AIGA Members | $40 for Student Non-Members (student AIGA membership is $75.00 when you sign up online). Volunteers/Reviewers needed: Interested in being a part of our review team or to volunteer to help with planning or promoting this event? Please contact Katie Hart at education@aigacharlotte.org (prefer reviewers with a minimum of 5 years of professional experience). Prizes: AIGA Charlotte is pleased to announce that all participating portfolios will be judged by the review team to select a Best of Show winner, a Runner Up and a chance to participate…
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February 19, 2009
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I’ve been doing what I love for over fifteen years and I have always believed that I am always learning. It’s not a philosophical belief but an undeniable truth. Thus, when I was asked to moderate the panel at the latest Design Unplugged event I was more than happy to accept. Seriously, what a great way for me to learn from over a half-dozen leaders in Charlotte’s creative community than to do it under the guise of hosting the event? (Beats taking each of them to lunch over the course of a month.) With a room of 70+ students, graduates, young and experienced professionals, Jim Mountjoy (LKM), Leigh Brinkley (Brinkley Design), Kara Hollinger (Kara Hollinger Design Company), Pamela Maret (Aquent), Deanna Mancuso (Newell-Rubbermaid), David Elliott (Limerick Studios), and James Sack (carbonhouse) were gracious with their time and forthcoming and honest with their experience in answering questions about preparing and presenting for a job today. With the make-up of the…
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December 30, 2008
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On Friday November 21, 2008 Students from Central Piedmont Community College, The Art Institute of Charlotte, Johnson C. Smith University, Appalachian State University, UNC Charlotte, and Winthrop University joined together on a "green" tour of a few design studios around uptown Charlotte. The LINX was our tour bus in helping keep our environment clean during our insightful excursion. We visited 7 studios: Eye Design, Brinkley Design, Hot Sake, Limerick Studios, Visit Charlotte/CRVA, The Pursuit Group, and Birdsong Gregory. I asked Kristin Junco, a Senior Graphic Design student at The Art Institute of Charlotte to give her perspective on the event. “Networking is the most powerful way to build professional relationships, actively foster contacts and publicize information. The Studio Fall Tour was an excellent example of the best way to know who you might want to work for one day. I could not have been more thrilled to be a part of this group! This experience not only helped…
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December 15, 2008
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Have you ever been terrified and amazed at the same time? Imagine being in close proximity of a tornado snarling down on you, coming straight for you, and knowing that there is really nothing that can be done about it. Well, that tornado is the future of interactivity.Amazing and terrifying are probably the best two words to describe AIGA Charlotte’s Top 10 :: Interactive Media Tips and Trends workshop that took place November 20th. For those of you who missed out, John Pietrafesa, Partner and Creative Director, and Tyler Hawes, Partner and Interactive Director, at the multi-disciplinary design studio, MODE gave a top ten workshop on Interactive Media tips and trends. This presentation took the pulse of some of the most cutting edge interactive technologies in use today, and some of the most exciting examples that have yet to be released to the public. This technological tornado is terrifying in its power, incredible ingenuity and ever-changing advancement but even more amazing for…
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November 26, 2008
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AIGA Charlotte has undoubtedly flourished over the past year. From informational workshops, to hosting Stephen Sagimeister and Sean Adams, to the success of BOOM!, to membership growth, it’s easy to see why we’re considered one of the chapters to watch. But while we have much we can celebrate, AIGA Charlotte also recognizes the need to move forward, continuing to aid our members in developing new skills, insights, ideas, and sources of inspiration. Our Annual Meeting is the perfect time to reflect on our growth and inspirations and no one is a better speaker on the topic than Debbie Millman. Please join us in welcoming her to Charlotte! Debbie Millman has been creating work based on the principals of honesty, energy, and integrity for the past 25 years. She is a partner and president of the design division at Sterling Brands, a leading identity firm with offices in New York, San Francisco, London, and Singapore. Their “team" is…
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October 08, 2008
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An AIGA Charlotte membership definitely had its privileges on the evening of September 25! A great time was had by all when Boone Oakley opened their doors to host the Fall edition of Meet Your Neighbor. At this members-only event AIGA-ers braved a gas shortage and bad weather to learn what makes Charlotte’s notorious out-of-of-the-box agency “tick.” The evening began with a studio tour lead by Boone Oakley’s President Phil Smith. 
Recognized by the Charlotte Mecklenburg Historic Landmark Commission, the workspace was originally built as a warehouse by the Joseph Sykes Brothers Company (a textile company coincidentally originating from the same area of Britain as Phil Smith). Although the original “bones” of the warehouse are still evident, attendees were delighted by the surprising updates; such as the original business’s safe that now houses the company’s server and the basketball court located in the kitchen. …
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September 25, 2008
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In the 2004 election, approximately 57 percent of the voting age population in the U.S. actually voted. Turnout was higher for women (65%) than for men (62%). Of voters 18-29 years old, 49 percent turned-out to vote, representing only 16 percent of total votes overall. This turn-out, or lack of, isn't surprising. Over the past several decades, there has been a trend of decreasing voter turnout, not only in the U.S., but also in most established democracies. In general, low turnout is suggested to be due to disenchantment, indifference, or contentment. In response to this trend, in 2000, AIGA mounted a campaign to demonstrate the power of design in the public arena by asking designers to contribute to a coordinated get-out-the vote campaign for national elections. The purpose is to encourage voter turnout and, while there is no single message, the intent is a call to action, motivating people to register and turn out to vote. Get Out the Vote is a public service initiative of AIGA Design…
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July 27, 2008
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Solving design problems, we often inject emotion into our work. We can't help it. Because as objective as we'd like to be about something we created, it’s still inevitably a part of us, something that helps define who we are. I've often thought that this is what differentiates design from so many other professions. It's the creative process that makes us passionate, driven, inspired as we strive to not only communicate a message, but convey a feeling to the audience. And therein lies what the re|THINK initiative is all about. Bringing a talented group of creative minds together around a common cause: in this case, advocating important environmental issues, with the aim of broadening perspectives and changing behaviors. re|THINK was created to be more than just a poster show. It’s a personal call to action to all who experience it. It's the type of social design advocacy our region has needed for a long time. So when AIGA Raleigh put out a call for entries…
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June 05, 2008
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At the first summer buzZ of the year, 24 devoted AIGAers made a stop by The Perk on South Blvd. before heading to work to participate in this month's topic. Karro Bean Design House's Maggie Bean led a lively chat about how to be your own boss and not fire yourself, targeted toward small business owners and freelancers. When Maggie posed the question "What does it take to be a business owner?", the group came up with the following: You have to have guts It's important to be able to stand up for yourself and it takes a lot to get out there when you are starting out. You have to know your limitations Recognize when you have to step back and refocus, whether it be your business plan, your design concept or your work–life balance. You can't be a prostitute. Make lasting relationships with clients, vendors, colleagues, etc. And be selective. You have to be able to vent. Make sure you have a support group. You have to possess a well-rounded personality. You must possess…
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May 28, 2008
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Last night AIGA Charlotte paired up with Ad 2 Charlotte for some friendly competition, tasty pizza, used shoes and tons of fun, also known as bowling. The conclusion was drawn that the creative field does not always yield the most skilled bowlers. No offense to Nikki Mueller & Jason Robinson who were the top scorers of the evening with 2-game combined scores of 236 & 333 respectively. Lindsey Greenwald wowed all who attended with her combined score of 116, awarding her with the title of Lowest Score of the evening. All winners were awarded $15 itunes cards. Way to go guys! Ad 2 generously donated two awesome Laura Vossburg prints that were raffled off and went to two photography-loving recipients. If you missed this event don't fret. We'll host one again soon, just watch the site for upcoming Meet|Markets. Special thanks to Abby Crocket of Ad 2 who helped organize the event, Mark Keys for creating all of the promotional design and Glen at Pappas Park Lanes who graciously hosted…
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May 22, 2008
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Chris Bradle, owner of Eye Design Studio & outgoing AIGA Charlotte President, guest moderated the May buzZ entitled "Get Your Foot in the Door & Keep it There". There was a great mix of seasoned professionals, newcomers to the field and curious members who love getting up early. Chris structured his discussion around three main points: your portfolio, narrowing in on where you want to work and the process of getting there. He stressed the importance of getting feedback from as many people as possible on your book and always making sure to follow up in an unique, appropriate way that targets the company and who they are. Some of the designers working in the field offered up anecdotes about things they have tried in the past, both successful and dreadful. The people looking to make a change in their job situation were able to ask questions and bounce ideas off of the rest of the group. In June, Maggie Bean, president of Karro Bean Design House, will moderate a discussion…
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May 07, 2008
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The 2008 Student Portfolio Review went very well and was a great time!
This year we gave away a 3 month internship in addition to "Best of Show" and "Honorable Mention". We are excited to announce that this year's Best of Show winner was also awarded the internship. The student who won was Attabel Artiga from Appalachian State University. The Honorable mention went to George Greenoe from The Art Insititute of Charlotte. I think everyone will agree that we all saw some great portfolios and the competition has gone up a notch since last year.
Good luck to all of the participants in your future as you grow as a designer.
AIGA Charlotte would also like to thank the 16 reviewers that were present to provide feedback and encouragement to the students throughout the day. Without them the event wouldn't be possible. We hope you all had fun being a part of each of the student's future in the profession.
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April 29, 2008
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This past Thursday AIGA co-sponsored an event with AAF Charlotte and it took place at Morehead Tavern in The Cellar. Justin Gammon of Brains on Fire in Greenville, SC treated us to a thought provoking talk. He gave a presentation on the difference between Campaigns versus Movements. And yes, there were the requisite jokes like, “I think I’ll go make a movement of my own.” Not from Justin, of course, because he is a true professional. Brains on Fire is an identity company. They help other companies create and sustain excitement about who they are and why they’re in business. Justin began by giving an intro about his identity. At Brains on Fire he holds the title of Design & Illustration Rock Star but as he points out it’s not quite as fulfilling without the groupies. Before attaining Rock Star status, Justin went to Winthrop University where he studied graphic design. He’s held several different jobs including librarian, shoe factory worker,…
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April 22, 2008
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Last night’s Talk About with Stefan Sagmeister event was an immense success! The event sold out with over 150 attendees, making this event one of AIGA Charlotte’s largest turnouts. Attendees mixed and mingled during the one hour reception and Stefan visited with many of our members on the steps to Spirit Square. Stefan gave an incredible lecture. His words and work inspired on both a professional level and a personal level. The craft and creativity of each project was compelling. He shared many stories about the process of each projects’ creation and production. My favorite story was his near arrest for being mistaken as a jumper from an Empire State building window. When in fact he was merely doing a photoshoot for his maxim “Over time I get used to everything and start taking for granted.” Although, it is easy to see how the police would confuse him for a jumper when the shoot consisted of him sitting in one of the building’s open windows with…
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February 28, 2008
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Three years ago, I was attending my first HOW Conference in Chicago. In the mist of wall to wall sessions, I found myself sitting in a conference hall listening to Sean Adams’ presentation. Although entering the session with no idea of who he was, I left the session completely inspired. I couldn’t stop thinking about all the different design theory played out in intricate charts and how strong of a speaker he was. Upon return to Charlotte, I attended my first board meeting as incoming Vice President a couple weeks later. To this day, I remember the animated conversation I had with our events team asking them if we could find a way to bring Sean Adams to Charlotte. Time past and then at the National Leadership Retreat last year, Sean Adams was introduced as the incoming National President. That once distant thought of having Sean come to speak in Charlotte suddenly came back to life. Though now it was even better. What if we could get THE Sean Adams, of AdamsMorioka, and the…
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