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GRAPHIC DESIGN USA NEWSLETTER | JULY 07

IN THIS ISSUE

Publisher's Note: Reconcile This
Awards: It's Corporate, Yo
Housekeeping: Anatomy Lesson
People On The Move
Take Five! Vacation Escape
Trendspotting: Flying High
Special Promotion: Creative Express
Upcoming Events
New Online Store: Smart Papers

 
 

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PUBLISHERS NOTES: RECONCILE THIS

What does it say about our society that the three most consumer-friendly new drug names — according to the respected TippingSprung/Brandweek branding survey — are the menopause pills Enjuvia, an anti-anxiety treatment for dogs called Reconcile from the makers of Prozac, and a brand of inhaled insulin dubbed Exubera? There's must be a blinding flash of insight hidden in there somewhere but, honestly, it is too hot out today to wrap my brain around it. Anyway, it doesn't really matter since this is the internet and it's okay to just throw stuff out there, label it as content, and hope it sticks. Right? So, just for summertime fun, here is more content from the survey. Favorite brand extension: Nike Tailwind. Favorite hotel name: Starwood's Aloft. Low cost airline: go! from Hawaiin Air. Alcoholic beverage: Spykes. Fragance: the text-messagey CK IN2U. Worst fragrance name: Intimately Beckham for Him. The survey sponsors are able to tease out some sensible generalizations, most notably the growing tendency for marketers and designers to go simple and safe, and to purposely misspell words for impakkkt. As for me, it's back to Central Park to lie in the sun and ponder what other species might benefit from a Prozac-like substance. Cats for sure, squirrels definitely, and I know my daughters' hamster is really stressed about the whole immigration debate. But I won't think about it too hard because I'll be working on a tan, and I'm no good at multitasking. Contact: www.tippingsprung.com.

— Gordon Kaye

AWARDS NEWS: IT'S CORPORATE, YO

We have written thousands of words on the inhouse life. But one designer nailed it with a brief and simple phrase. When asked his advice to creatives considering an inhouse position, he said: "It's corporate, yo!" And so it is. The question and answer are part of from a new survey that will be published in our supersized July/August American Inhouse Design Awards Annual. This upcoming edition of our magazine showcases nearly 700 pieces of award winning design work, and also explores the battle for creative freedom that makes inhouse design a unique experience. The competition and the Annual are sponsored by two leaders in their respective areas of expertise: The Creative Group, a division of Robert Half International, is the paramount specialized staffing service placing creative professionals with companies on a project basis; and Agfa, a worldwide leader in prepress solutions for the printing and publishing, and a dedicated friend of the creative community. Late July is the estimated time of arrival in your mailbox.

HOUSEKEEPING: ANATOMY LESSON

The Anatomy of Design: Uncovering the Influences and Inspirations in Modern Graphic Design (Rockport Publishers) is an important new book by Steven Heller and Mirko Ilic. Intended as "an iconic collection of design work presented in fresh and useful format," the book explores dozens of "contemporary artifacts that are well conceived, finely crafted, and filled with hidden treasures." Included is the front cover of GDUSA's January 2006 issue — our 500th edition — which features a self-portrait by Stefan Sagmeister, photographed by Matthias Ernstberger, with overall art direction by our own creative director Ilana Greenberg. The special issue featured a reader poll in which Mr. Sagmeister was voted today's "most influential designer." http://www.gdusa.com/search_view.php?art=/issue_2006/01_jan/feature/feature.php.htm

Anatomy_Of_Design   January_Cover

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Ron Brant, Larsen: An award winning creative director, art director, designer and brand architect, Ron Brandt has become a design director at Larsen, the well-known Minneapolis-based communications design firm. Brant has helped shape well-known brands including Apple, Coca-Cola, CBS Television, Honda, Xerox, Merrill Lynch, Universal Pictures, UW Hospital and Clinics and Visa. His approach: "Always pushing to humanize the world through design."

Andy Bateman, Interbrand New York: Interbrand New York names Andy Bateman as CEO. An 18 year veteran of the industry, he led the Intel brand and business globally for McCann Worldgroup. "I believe Interbrand is uniquely positioned to be able to help clients manage the tectonic shift occuring in both developed and developing markets — the shift from a supply to a demand economy."

Douglas Timmermeyer, Savage Design Group: Savage Design Group, a Houston-based agency, promotes one of its longtime associates Douglas Timmermeyer from Art Director to Design Director. An integral part of the Savage design team for seven years, Timmermeyer has won several awards in design and communications, and received his degree in design communications from Texas Tech University. Of the new leadership position, Paula Savage says that "Doug is primed for his new role."

Anthony P.D. MacLaurin, Fibermark: Anthony P.D. MacLaurin has taken the reins as President and CEO of FiberMark, a leading producer of specialty fiber-based materials, based in West Springfield, MA. He brings with him more than three decades of experience in the packaging industry, with key management posts at the likes of Rexam, U.S. CAN International Division and, most recently, as head of Vitex Packaging Group. Chairman Tom Weld says "we are pleased to have Anthony on board with his reputation for leadership, innovation and results." FiberMark is best known among graphic designers for it's distinctive covering materials and cover stocks.

Barbara Friedsam, Jager Di Paola Kemp: Jager Di Paola Kemp, in Burlington, VT, names Barbara Friedsam as director of interactive media. She is working on all of JDK's online, video and sound projects with a holistic role for the design firm: to make sure the interactive team understands the strategic branding for each client and that "all of the branding comes through the design process in a way that reaches consumers intelligently."

Terri Edelman, The Edelman Group: Founded by Terri Edelman, The Edelman Group celebrates its 25th anniversary as a successful small, independent New York City-based marketing communications and design firm. Based in NYC's financial district, the company has thrived as a result of Edelman's clear vision and unparalleled focus on the customer. She was a GDUSA Person To Watch in 2005 and an Enterprising Woman of the Year Finalist in 2006.

Brian Bernier, PJA Advertising and Marketing: Brian Bernier joins PJA Advertising and Marketing as Associate Creative Director on a range of acouunts. Bernier previously spent five years at the Allen & Gerritsen agency. Other stops along the way include Donovan Group, PC Connection, Via Design and Wechsler & Partners. PJA was the 2006 Aency of the Year according to BtoB Magazine. Bernier is based in Boston, MA.

Jason Kim, Handelan-Pedersen: Jason Kim is the newest Senior Designer at Handelan-Pedersen. He is responsible for designing corporate and promotional marketing materials for Motorola. A University of Wisconsin graduate, he has held the position of graphic designer at Tiger Group in Chicago.

Leslie Parker and Tom Paul, The Association of Professional Design Firms: The Association of Professional Design Firms (APDF) has apointed Leslie Parker and Tom Paul to its Board of Directors. Parker is currently operations director at Jager Di Paola Kemp Design in Burlington VT, where she is responsible for studio operations. Paul is chief operating officer at Pop art, a full service interactive agency in Portland OR. Cathy Brownlee is the assocation's executive director. APDF is based out of Chicago, IL.

Whitney Wilkerson, Stop Studios: Whitney Wilkerson, principal and creative director of Stop Studios, in Durham, NC, has received the Triangle Business Journal's 40 Under 40 Leadership Award. Before founding the communication design and event management firm, she worked with Condé Nast Publications, as well as in the marketing department of the Italian fashion house Giorgio Armani. The journal honors recipients for their business accomplishments, community involvement and future goals.

Tom Saggiomo, Agfa Graphics: A Gamma Gold Key is now in the possession of Agfa Graphics President Tom Saggiomo. He was presented the honor by Gamma Epsilon Tau of the New York City College of Technology of The City University of New York. The international graphic arts honor society honored the NYC College of Technology alumnus for 30 years of business leadership, as well as his ongoing commitment to the graphic arts industry including his role as chairman of NPES (The Association for Suppliers of Printing, Publishing and Converting Technologies). The award was presented in Ridgefield Park, NJ.

Dave MacDonald, christiansen: creative: Dave MacDonald is upped to Senior Designer at christiansen : creative, located in Hudson, WI. With the design firm since 2004, MacDonald is a Drake University graduate, and has held creative and production positions with Fallon Worldwide in Minneapolis and The History Factory in Washington DC. At christiansen:creative, clients have included Marvin Windows and Doors, Madison Marquette, and BI Worldwide.

Heather Hoyt, Cultivator Advertising & Design: Heather Hoyt is a Designer at Cultivator Advertising & Design, working with clients such as Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Keystone Resort, and Denver Rescue Mission accounts. With a BFA in graphic design from the College for Creative Studies, Hoyt previously worked on Daimler Chrysler and Mercedes Benz projects as graphic designer for the Elevator design studio.

Eric Zeitoun, Dragon Rouge US: Eric Zeitoun takes over for Jonathan Asher as President of Dragon Rouge US. The large privately-owned international brand consultancy is based in New York City, but also has offices in Brussels, Hamburg, London, Paris and Warsaw. Asher helped develop the US business and is said to have left to explore new challenges. Zeitoun has held brand and management posts at Interbrand, Sara Lee, and Lippincott Mercer.

Christian Schmidt, Image Source: Christian Schmidt joins the global team at Image Source in London as Creative Communications Manager. Schmidt is responsible for developing a new communications plan accross Image Source's marketing channels and offices. Schmidt arrives at Image Source with a history of creativity and award wins within the visual communication industry. In his previous role as Design Manager Europe at Masterfile, he helped win several creative awards for that stock agency. Says Phillip Jennings: "Christian is from a new generation of creative communication professionals — a true netizen..."

TAKEFIVETAKE FIVE! CAREER TIPS FROM THE CREATIVE GROUP

Are you spending more time looking at laptops than landmarks during your vacation? You're in good company. A new survey by The Creative Group shows that 47 percent of marketing and advertising executives check in at least daily during holidays. To avoid being electronically tethered to the office on your next break, try these five strategies:

1. Time it right. For example, the best season to venture to new lands isn't necessarily in the summer if you're a catalog company. Plan your breaks for periods when your office is traditionally slow.

2. Head someplace truly exotic. Perhaps your cell phone and BlackBerry won't work there — darn!

3. Limit your access. If you must remain connected, plan to check in at a certain time each day, and let colleagues know that's the only time you want to be contacted.

4. Use out-of-office technology. Direct people to others who can help them while you are away.

5. Get outside help. If you feel like the office will cease functioning without you, consider bringing a freelancer or consultant on board during your absence.

The Creative Group is a specialized staffing service placing creative, advertising, marketing and web professionals on a project basis. Find more information at www.creativegroup.com.

TRENDSPOTTING

Flying High:
US flag sales rebounded this past Flag Day, retailers say, as citizens replaced worn flags, got ready for the Fourth of July and showed support for troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Sales hit record levels after 9/11 and the beginning of the Iraq war in 2003, but had slumped by 2004. The latest increases, however, do not approach the levels seen early in the Bush administration, say many retailers. Some flag retailers say that they have seen a shift in customers' ages as younger adults buy flags to support friends and loved ones serving in the war. Experts estimate an increase in production of about 5% as compared with a year ago.

Privatize:
The popularity of private-label grocery products has been long established. What is different these days, according to a study by the Private Label Manufacturers Association, is that the popularity of private-label foods seems to be creating a halo effect for other product categories. About two-thirds of respondents who buy private-label say that if stores stocked a wider variety of such products, they'd buy them. Moreover, because retailers have done a better job of making private-label brands appealing, that appeal is stretching far beyond the budget shopper. The PLMA study also found that one-fifth of consumers say they frequently buy private-label products in the health and beauty, home office, household and home improvement categories. Recent examples include Whole Foods' mineral cosmetics, Target's new Bath & Body family, and Costco's Office Impressions line of office supplies.

Prescribing Print:
The threat of regulatory oversight appears to be having an effect on one of the most dynamic advertising categories of the past decade — direct to consumer prescription drug ads. That is a preliminary conclusion by analysts at ad tracking firm TNS Media Intelligence as it studies new data about US advertising trends. Their study finds that, although prescription drug advertising has skyrocketed, the surge is beginning to disproportionately benefit print media. To make good on the plege to provide more detailed information to consumers about risks and alternatives, pharmaceutical marketers are turning to magazines to tell long-form advertising messages, and buy more space for additional disclaimers and informational copy. It is speculated that another category facing increased regulatory scrutiny — food advertising — may begin to join the media migration.

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UPCOMING EVENTS

Today-July 27: The Art Directors Club of New York holds its 86th Annual Exhibition featuring the work of all the winners in advertising, design, interactive, photography, illustration and more. www.adcglobal.org

July 9-11: Throughout the AMA Nonprofit Marketing Conference participants will hear presenters speak on the power of good marketing strategy to improve business and society. All at the Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC. www.themarketingfoundation.org

July 12: Come join your fellow AIGA Minnesota members and enjoy some Cocktails with Creatives at Joe's Garage. www.minnesota.aiga.org

July 12-August 22: The School of Visual Arts presents "The Missing Peace: Artists Consider the Dalai Lama." The exhibition reflects artists' interpretations of the Dalai Lama and explores his multiple roles and inconic status. www.sva.edu

July 17, 2007. The Art Directors Club of New Jersey is one of the important sponsors of this all-creative Joint Summer Networking Event. It takes place at Lenfell Hall, The Mansion, Fairleigh Dickinson University. www.adcnj.org

July 17: Type Directors Club presents the New York opening of the exhibition of winning entries for the most recent competitions, TDC53 and TDC2 2007. www.tdc.org

July 19: Inside the Designers Studio is the AIGA Arizona's behind the scenes look at spaces and projects. Switch Studios of Tempe AZ is on deck. arizona.aiga.org

July 24: The next edition of AIGA Chicago's Small Talk series, a chance to visit and learn about top design firms in the area, focuses on Liska + Associates. www.aigachicago.org

July 26: Boston summer AFTA events are free form "afta" work gatherings of creative folk, this time sponsored by Catapult at Sorriso, 107 South Street. www.boston.aiga.org

August 1-5: SOTA's ninth annual TypeCon conference is set for Seattle, offering great presentations and panel discussions, hands-on workshops, tours and special events. www.typecon.com

August 9-11. Society of Environmental Graphic Design is a sponsor of New Directions: Affecting Thought and Changing Minds Symposium on exhibit and environment design at Cranbrook Academy of Art in Bloomfield Hills, MI. www.segd.org

August 9-12: Image, Space, Object 2007: People Centered Brand Experiences, presented by Rocky Mountain College and AIGA, is about small teams of participants and mentors working to create multi-dimensional environments, human interactions and brand strategies. www.aiga.org

August 12: The AIGA/LA sponsors Craftivism, a stylish outdoor marketplace experience with ticket proceeds benefiting the AIGA Scholarship Fund. www.aigalosangeles.org

September 9-12: Named one of America's top trade shows, Graph Expo at Chicago's McCormick place, is expected to fill more than 450,000 square feet of exhibition space and attract tens of thousands of graphics industry professionals. 703.264.7200 or www.graphexpo.com

September 19: The fourth annual Design Legends Gala will honor... well, um... design legends. This year's honorees are Edward Fella, Ellen Lupton, Bruce Mau and Greg Olden. www.aiga.org

September 29-October 2: The University & College Designers Association presents its 37th Conference in Toronto. Conference includes speakers, hands-on workshops, studio tours and publication reviews. www.ucda.com

October 14-20: National Design Week promotes a better understanding of the role design plays in all aspects of daily life. Several national design winners, including Chip Kidd for Communications Design, have been selected for honors through the auspices of the Cooper-Hewitt Museum. www.nationaldesignawards.org

October 17-19: 8th Annual DesignThinkers Conference takes place in Toronto; it's the largest annual conference of graphic design and branding in Canada. www.designthinkers.com

NEW ONLINE STORE: SMART PAPERS

This new online retail store provides quick ordering and delivery of specialty printing papers in any quantity for North American printers, designers, businesses and consumers. More than 1,800 SKUs of premium papers are available in a wide variety of sizes, weights, colors and finishes via the online store, including Forest Stewardship Council certified papers. The offering can be accessed by brand, paper type, color, finish, end use or stock item number. http://www.smartpapersstore.com.