Adrienne Van Luvender Graphic Design

Web Design for CBS Electronics

2011-11-14T17:15:00.001-08:00

Hi. It sure has been a while since I have had the time to post any new blogs. I guess it is time to play catch up...
Over the last year, I have been working as a web designer at CBS. It has been quite a wonderful experience. I have had the chance to dive fully into HTML hand coding, CSS, HTML5, and even a little of Javascript, PHP, and JQuery. I have also had the chance to work with high profile clients, which I think has been helping me hone in on a more professional style of design.
Currently, I am creating a website for CBS Electronics. While I have been working with many other sites, this is the first at CBS that I am creating solely from scratch. I have created new looks and updated all kinds of sites, but to be the one who is coming up with the structure and the design for a corporate website is a whole other beast.
After a bit of research, and a few different design trials, I think I am getting close to nailing down the overall look, feel, and structure of the site. The trick to getting this far and feeling so good about it is that I designed wire-frames for the whole site, so that I would know exactly what information we want to display and where.
You can see the wire-frames here: http://vanludesign.com/electronics/index.html
I have gone through a couple of revisions with these wire-frames, adding and subtracting necessary elements and sections. Now we are ready to add style.

I started by choosing a color palette. When I was doing research, I took snapshots of a few templates that had colors, elements, or even just an overall style that was appealing to me. There was one that stood out as professional, technical, and sleek:

My director thought this was a good way to go too. So, using this color palette, and the wire-frames I had already created, I began to give the site a little bit of style...

I am happy with the direction the site is going in. There are a few tweaks I want to make to the homepage. Then, I will take the style I have settled on and move it across all of the different pages. More to come soon....

Skydive Santa Barbara Logo Redesign update.....

2010-10-19T15:24:00.000-07:00

I have made some progress with the logo redesign for Skydive Santa Barbara. I just recently emailed some images to the client to see what he thinks and am awaiting his response. The following is where it is at right now:

The top two are definitely my favorite. They feel strong and steady, yet somewhat free. I also think they would print very well in full color or as one color. Plus, Santa Barbara is clear and very easy to read, but not over-bearing. Let's see what Dave's response is..... I'll let you know!

Skydive Santa Barbara Logo Redesign

2010-10-02T15:46:00.000-07:00

Okay, so there is one more project that I currently have my hands on. Skydive Santa Barbara needs a new logo. This one is a little trickier. The client, Dave, has told me he has other people working on a logo as well. I guess I am trying to beat them to the punch. How cool would it be to have my logo for a skydive company?! I have been working on my certification by the way. I jump out of planes for fun! I have five more levels to complete before I can jump unsupervised. Then, 8 more jumps to become fully certified to jump alone! Well, not alone. There are always others in the plane of course. Anyway, I have been kind of stuck on this one. It's interesting. I find that working with musicians and mechanical engineers is really pretty easy compared to someone who is more business inclined.
First, I did some research. I looked up logos for as many skydive companies as I could. Below are a few of the snapshots I took.....

I have to say that Skydive Dubai and Skydive Arizona are my two favorite. Dubai just looks so strong, simple, and new-age. Plus, they used the parachute in a different way than others Arizona is also a very strong and stable logo with simplicity, plus they managed to express DZ as important (for "Drop Zone"). I thought that was very clever.

So, I put together a series of font examples for Dave to see which direction he wants to move the logo in.

Again, some of these I did not really like myself, but it is all about what the customer wants. So, I gave him different styles of type to see what could be. He likes 17 the best. So, from there, I can tell he wants more of a solid, simple, and stable logo. One that's not too retro. I will be working to crank this out in hopes that I can give him something he really likes before anyone else gets the chance. Let's see what happens.....

Oh yeah. So you have a reference, here is the current logo......

Viking Off-Roading Enterprises Website Design

2010-10-02T15:22:00.000-07:00

As I venture into the world of freelance design work, I also am working on a couple of other projects. I am creating a website for "Viking Off-Roading Enterprises". The owner, Sean, is a well respected off-roading mechanic in Ventura, CA. He also can do any mechanic work on cars, but specializes in souping up cars for running wildly among roads uncharted, or barley charted anyway. This client already has a logo, and a very good understanding of what he wants for his website. I think this project will definitely work out to be a growth spurt in web design for me. We met up last week to discuss what he needs....
This will be a six-page website that is very simple but exciting and eye catching. As we looked at other websites of mechanic, off-road and regular, it was noticeable how cluttered so many of them are. After all, they want to let you know all they can right off the bat, right? So, we want this to be a very clean, but informative site and for it to look like it's in the "now", not outdated, like so many. Sean was excited enough to draw up some sketches and give me a definite direction to take it in. With this, I created some comps of the home page for him.....

I was hoping he would not go for the comps with the buttons, but just wanted to show him, so he knows he has options. Luckily, his fav's were not with the buttons, but we now have that possibility out of the way (sometimes you have to show a client, so they know that's what they don't want as well). So, with his feedback, I will be making minor adjustments and get the ball rolling on the rest of the site. Usually, I would have to work on a mood-board and draw wireframes, but I was lucky enough to have a client who already had pretty much done that! Yay! I can't wait to get more of this done. It is a balancing act though. I also have a job that I am currently training for, so this may take a little bit of time. More for you to see soon!

Jon Lee and The Strays logo design.....

2010-10-02T15:03:00.000-07:00

I have also been working simultaneously on a logo design for "Jon Lee and The Strays". Jon Lee has a couple of other CD'S out, "Songs for San Francisco" and "Calder Plaza". He plays acoustic and sings about love and life, but with more of a reality check involved. So, now he has joined up with a team of friends from all different genres and backgrounds who are musically inclined. Actually, one of his bass players, Thomas, is head of "Crazy Never Die". Jon and Isa (the drummer from Jon Lee and The Strays) also play in Crazy Never Die, just different instruments and styles. All of the members of the band have been taught how to vocalize so beautifully by the amazing Professor Christine Gengaro from LACC. She also plays keyboard and sings as one of The Strays. Then, there is the presious Nola with the voice of an angel and percussions. You can check them out more at www.johnleesongs.com . It's pretty awesome how versatile they all are. And their music has a very real and fresh approach to life.

So, Jon wants a logo and promotional items, such as an album cover, t-shirts, and a poster or two. I am starting with the logo first, of course. I put together several styles and variations of each for him to choose from.

With is feedback, I started playing with certain fonts, arranging and rearranging the type to see where we can take this.

After a little more feedback, I worked with a couple of different versions for him....

This part was a little tricky. You see, the problem with using such stylized fonts is that, not only is kerning so often kind of off, the most "minor" adjustments are not really minor. I had to create the ampersand myself for the bottom two.

For the top two versions, the "J" was too bold. The lower case "j" was just not legible. So, I had to create a less bold "J" that would match the font. Jon seems pleased and is sitting on them for a minute to see which direction we want to go in. Once I get the logo down, I will then work to incorporate it with other items. I have been drawing a guitar with charcoal in hopes that somehow I can incorporate it in the album or something. We will see where this goes. I have a great feeling about it.

Crazy Never Die Logo Continued Progress

2010-10-02T14:43:00.000-07:00

Okay, so we are honing it down. The logo is almost ready. I made some adjustments per Thomas' request to a few that he really liked and am taking it in a new direction I think. It may end up looking like an "ink stamp" logo....

Soon, I will have the final product for you to see.... :)

"The Crazy Never Die" Logo progress.....

2010-09-23T17:52:00.000-07:00

So, I have almost honed in on what Thomas wants for his band logo "The Crazy Never Die". I tried playing with the type and am going to be doing some slight adjustments and a little more play. Here's what I have so far..... (This logo is a little crazier than any usual one. Lots of fun to work with!)

More to come soon! Stay tuned....

Freelance work!

2010-09-22T10:50:00.000-07:00

So, here I am in California, working to set my career off onto a path of new heights. Though I am working day in and day out to get a job in a design firm, I find that it seems to be working out for me to do freelance. California is full of artists and entrepreneurs of all types and everyone needs promotion. I have made a few friends that are helping me to get connected in the community out here. Fortunately they are also in need of logos and album work. So, here is some progress work for you to check out.....

The first logo is one for a band called "The Crazy Never Die". It is a rock band that is sings to bring about more innovative thought and to break boundaries that have been set by our society. You can check them out at the following link: www.thecrazyneverdie.com

They are in need of a logo and I am pretty excited about what is coming about. The leader, Thomas, wanted a unique image to make people think twice.
I started by presenting several different fonts that could possible give the feel he is looking for.....

Thomas picked a couple he liked and I started thinking of an image to go along with it (though I had been doing this the whole time). Sometimes having a font style chosen can help you to figure out what imagery would suit the client I believe. So, as I was thinking and thinking Einstein and several other famous people who were once thought of as crazy came to mind. I kept going back to Einstein though. Seeing as how he broke many boundaries of his time. The image of a light bulb (an idea) also came popping into my head. So, I thought, what would happen if you took a light bulb and broke it, but warped as if it were plastic or something. This would be the perfect way to display something that is against all rules- a bent broken light bulb. S o I looked up images of broken light bulbs to have a reference and low and behold I came across images of broken bulbs with matches in them! Forget warping it! This was the perfect idea! A broken bulb with a match in it says to me that you may not use it the way it was intended, but it still will work. The match and the flame from it symbolizes hope and life as well as making things work even when they seem broken. Just brilliant! There is so much more too that it symbolizes. I will let you make your own call.

My client was pleasantly surprised at the image. So, now I am working on incorporating the type with the image. Below are the two font types he liked...

So, as I continue to work on this, I will keep you updated. I also have more to share about other projects, but I have to get to work. I will post more soon!

Website Redesign...

2010-08-18T12:20:00.000-07:00

Hey! So it has been a while since I've updated you....
I have been redesigning my website, which even though the new site and design is almost ready, it will be changing again soon. I have really come to love working with web design through all of this. Here are some images of what will be up and active....

I changed my logo. I felt that the previous one did not have enough play within the typography. Also, I took out the background drawings on the main pages. It was too busy for me before. I am going for a simple yet elegant feel.

"Root Up Kindness" Logo

2010-04-23T15:13:00.000-07:00

So, I think I have finished the logo. Of course, I'm sure some idea will come along to change it as I progress through making the separate pieces of this campaign. Here it is (for now)....

(Fonts: Chalet New York Nineteen Seventy and Inked God)

With this logo I want to show that kindness grows as it also helps people grow. I picked Inked God as a font because it has a classic structure that seems sturdy as well as light. It feels like a good fit to resemble "kindness", with it's support and accented edges. For that's what kindness so often really is- support with a little something extra behind it (good intention). I chose to use Chalet for "root up" because it has a very "stable" appearance. Also, the roundness gives the feeling of constance. I used lower case give the feel that it could also be a small act that makes all of the difference in the world.

Does anyone have any feedback on this by any chance? I thin I could use another pair of eyes.... Thank you.

Root Up Kindness Campaign

2010-04-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

Hey ladies! So, it has been a while since I have seriously taken a good look at my once dreamed of campaign, "Root Up Kindness". It was one of those things just sitting there in the back of my mind, taunting me as a major project on my to-do list in life for so long. Over the last week-and-a-half, though, I have had nothing to do but think. In the end, I figured out that until I act on what I have been saying over all of these years about certain issues, my heart will not stop beating through my chest. So, after sitting, and staring at the computer screen for what seemed like forever, I have finally put the idea of this campaign for kindness to the screen. My ideas are still changing, as I work through ideas and issues, but this is the start. I am so excited!
First of all, the campaign "Root Up Kindness" will be a movement for people to simply act in a kinder manner to people they come across on a daily basis. Ideas of simple ways that people can improve the lives of others around them will be distributed in products such as postcards, keychains, t-shirts, hats, posters, video, website, etc. The campaign simply asks others to do things such as smile or even wave sometimes, or maybe hold a door open for someone. You never know when someone just needs that one little nudge of compassion to get through their day. This campaign is to remind people of how easy it is to show kindness to others, and that often, kindness helps the one acting on it to be happier as well. So, here goes... (keep in mind, this is just the beginning).

(round 1 logo start^)

(Round 2 Logo ^)

(Round 3 Logo)

So this is the direction in which I think I'm taking the logo. What I am going for is to make it seems as though the kindness actually "rooted up" in a way. I think the version on the upper right may have too much going on, but that was the original idea, to build every element out of words of kindness and such. Also, I cannot tell if this is really legible enough. The two on the left are only different in the "D". One is filled in. Also, I think the "r" might be hard to read. I am playing with other ideas. Does anyone like any of these more than the others? Or do you have any feedback? (I know it has been a long time. I sort of got caught up in life's action for a moment.) Any suggestions or comments are greatly appreciated! Thank you....

Here is the beginning of the motion design piece ......

(the artwork for it anyway) that I am working on for this campaign.

I am making a tree of text. The text will include this quote from Amelia Earhart: "No kind action ever stops with itself. One kind action leads to another. Good example is followed. A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees. The greatest work that kindness does for others is that it makes them kind to themselves.", as well as words that symbolize kindness. I plan to at first zoom into the quote growing out of the ground so that viewers easily ready it. As I am zooming out, it will grow and become a tree that then blooms words of kindness. Then, a gust will make them float off and create new trees. I really have my work cut out with just the animation for this campaign. I cannot do it half way though. It has to be what I have been dreaming of all this time. It's al or none. that's why I was so scared to start in the first place.

So, along with the logo and the animation, I will be designing several campaign items or pieces. All of them are listed as follows:

poster- "Tree of Kindness" (34" x 24") This piece is aimed to make people see how kindness grows and how it helps people grow as they give or receive it. Amelia Earhart's quote regarding kindness ("...and the roots spring up to make new trees") will be the basis for the image. With the quote in text form, and different words symbolizing kindness, I will draw a "tree of kindness.

post card- This will be a twelve card set, one for each month. It will include twelve different designs expressing gratitude to the person receiving it. The idea is to send one random "thank you" at least once a month, even if it is just for being a friend.
wallet size reminder cards- These will be business card size. On the back, they will simply have a list of random and easy ways to be kind to people. There will be several different separate designs that combine to make a complete picture when all put side by side (like a mosaic). Each card will also have a part of the Earhart quote, and (again) when pieced together, it will be the full quote.
t-shirt- This will have a sort of "urban" wear look to it, with a little bit of "grunge" appeal. It will be a one color print displaying the "tree of kindness" in some way, or part of it, along with the campaign logo, and website info.
hat- This will simply be a hat that has the campaign logo on it. It may be available in different styles, colors, and sizes.
inspirational animation- (1920 px x 1080 px) This will include the same image from the poster, but in motion. I plan to make a hand out of the word "kindness" planting a seed of "kindness" into the ground. That seed will then turn into the quote, growing out of the ground. It then grows into a tree, which blooms "kindness", blowing off into the wind to "make new trees". It will probably be 15 to 20 seconds long.
website- This is going to take the longest. After I design the logo, I will start with the basics in creating a website. I have to make wireframes, and mood boards. I also will need to do a lot of research. I want to include links, facts, and a comment board, along with the items I am creating to get the word out.

For now, that is all I have. Whew! I have really got a lot to do. Better get going! Once again, any words of advice or feedback is greatly appreciated! Thank you! I hope you have a great day!

Wireframe Adjusted.... And first home page attempt

2009-11-16T20:07:00.003-08:00

After adjusting my wire frames according to today's critique, I started designing my home page. This is just the start, so things may change. I like the look and feel except it may feel too busy. I wanted more white space originally. I keep needing to add or adjust something due to balance issues. What do you think? I want to have it so you can scroll through (I have to create the scroll arrows still) the images (zoom-ins) and as you cross over the image, I want to swap it out with a full color version. Then, you can click on the image and go to its page, where I will have the description, slides, elements, etc of that particular campaign. Everything will fit within that bar throughout the whole site.

Does anyone have any feedback?

Portfolio Website Wireframes and MoodBoard

2009-11-16T10:51:00.000-08:00

So, these may change some, but this is the general direction I am taking. I want to still use the idea of a tree of artwork. I have found an old drawing I drew of a tree that is actually a woman. The tree is divided into segments exhibiting different styles of art. I may work on the tree a little more to personalize it for this site. I want to combine simplicity and complexity for my ultimate layered piece of work. I can't tell if these two fonts could help me play that out or not (together). Here goes...

My Design Portfolio Website

2009-11-11T06:33:00.000-08:00

Adrienne Van Luvender’s Portfolio: Website Content Outline

What are the goals of this site?

The goals of my site are to promote my artwork and designs in order to obtain work and experience. I want to show that I can do things on a more simplified level, but I really want to show how intense I can go. I want to display my work in a way that an employer would want to hire me or bring me in for an interview at least. Also, I would like to inspire others with my site as well. I want to use the idea that design helps people to understand more (sort of like organizing chaos). So I am thinking of using design elements that make this obvious. I want to use my site not only to display my work, but as a piece of my artwork itself.

Who are the defined users of this site?

The defined users of this site are potential employers, fellow designers, and anyone looking to find inspiration (in design, and problem solving).

Who are you trying to reach?

I am trying to reach anyone I can. First of all, I really do want a job in motion design, so potential employers are currently at the top of that list. Other than that, I want to reach people who may be looking for a different way to view things or want an abstract view of what they already know, or don’t know. I am thinking that this site is going to hone in on the intense feeling I want to give from my work.

How will your site benefit them?

I hope that I can be a good fit for what a potential employer is looking for. Also, I hope that I can inspire people. Whether they are fellow artists and designers or just a regular Joe, I want to be able to move them with my work. Hopefully I can bring some sense of good feeling or strength into their hearts with some of my pieces and the overall feeling of the site. It will give the feel of “design is good for the world” (enjoy it).

Design Portfolios Online

2009-11-09T05:57:00.000-08:00

Browsing designer websites, I realized that it is not the easiest thing to create an effective online design portfolio. You have the issue of dealing with impatient people like myself with a slow internet connection. This means the longer your page takes to load, the quicker I move away from it. Of course, imagery is key in design and the more imagery, typically the longer it takes to load. This seems like a double negative of sorts. With only a matter of seconds to catch the viewers eyes, what is a designer supposed to do? I have found a few sites that I think are great examples of what to do and what not to do when it comes to building an online design portfolio.

What not to do....

http://www.eveninglab.com/ by A.S.

This site is somewhat decent. It is very clean and loads quickly. I do have one major issue with it though. It looks like an ad to me. It does not come across as someone's very own personal site. Also, when you click to view her work, it is not clear whether or not you are able to click on the images to make them larger. I wanted them to get larger or be click-able for some reason. There is an annoying arrow that moves with you mouse over her work signaling that you can move through her work, but it is not clear what to do at first. The feedback of this site is confusing somewhat. I think too that when viewing the work, it may feel somewhat jam packed in a little amount of space. I think there needs to be more of a looser feel.

http://www.nisgia.com/

This site really bothers me actually. The flash takes way to long to load the page. Then, once you have it loaded, the artists work is not displayed. You can see it by clicking on links that are the image of some silly face. The fact that I can't preview the work that I am about to wait to see makes me not want to even click on it. I am to impatient and think that maybe if I do it will just take forever for something that is not worth waiting for. I think this is because it already took so long for the home page to load.

http://www.formrausch.com/

This site has competing patterns. The clipboard against the wood wall background messes with my head. It may have worked if the clipboard were a different style or texture, but they do not mesh together well. Also, the colors are very dull. On top of that, the clipboard is repeated as you scroll down, in different sizes. This really bothers me. No one would ever have so many clipboards of different sizes all hanging on the same ugly wall, except for in a used car salesman office. I guess that's a little harsh. It's just aggravating when someone tweaks real world stuff without a thought out solution. The smallest one at the bottom bothered me the most. I have never seen a clipboard of those dimensions. The idea of using a clipboard is great. That's why I first stayed looking over this site. I think is the designer had don't it so you don't scroll (using the same clipboard) it could have worked better.

What works....

http://foxie.ru/

So this site is a great example of how to use real world objects in a website design. This designer used a desk as her layout. It makes it so I want to click on everything. There is a little bit of comical relief as well. The "will work for food" sign is hilarious! I think any reasonable person would get a kick out of this. Everything is relatively easy to find. I am not too crazy about how the artwork is displayed when it's blown up, but my feelings about it are countered by the ingenious work on the desk objects.

http://www.enila.fr/

I love love love this site! It's not even in english, but I don't care. Her artwork is what seems to be in a tree with leaves made of blocks. There is great user feedback on the site. The home page has the interesting design of the tree to pull you in. Her page layouts feel very fresh and clean. There is no real confusion, even though I can't read it. Also, it is very interesting how the pieces come into the page. They have an interesting movement. They seem to sort of grow on the page.

http://www.visualboxsite.com/

So this may be my favorite of the sites that i have browsed. It is very clean and bold at the same time. This designer has parts of his pieces at the top of the page (with a tiny bit of a required scroll down on the page). The thing is, I didn't mind scrolling down because it was so visually attractive. Then, as you click on the separate blocks, it will take you to a place lower on the page with more pictures or parts of that piece. So, you can either click instantly to get where you want, or just scroll down. I found myself clicking on the pictures below, only to get no feedback, but this may be a good thing. I wanted to see more, but couldn't. He had shown me enough for me to know he knows what he's doing. But, if I want to see more, I have to contact him. This is the whole point of a design portfolio online! I think this designer nailed it! The one thing I do not like is the way the designer moves you to the artwork. Way too fast of a scroll. Would be nicer if it were just another page probably.

Not sure.... You tell me....

http://superlover.com.au/

This one I'm not sure what to think. The work is amazing. The layout is simple. But it just may be too much of a preview. It doesn't feel like a preview anymore. It feels like the whole thing. I would not want to see more because I feel overloaded, even though it is absolutely beautiful artwork. Also, I think this artist could put his art into categories of some sort. If I am looking for one particular style or subject, I do not want to sift through a gazillion pictures to find it. This site is lacking some sort of organization, but the work is so cool that I don't know if this is a bad site or a good one. I just think there is definitely a lot there.

Senior Seminar Project Finished!

2009-10-28T21:43:00.001-07:00

Here it is... WOw! That took some serious patience. What do you think?

For real... Carolina Ballet's Home Page and two secondary pages

2009-10-28T10:54:00.000-07:00

Homepage, AboutCB Page, and Picasso Page

2009-10-26T10:55:00.000-07:00

Carolina Ballet Homepage (2 variations)

2009-10-21T10:57:00.000-07:00

CB Wireframes....

2009-10-19T10:59:00.001-07:00

Carolina Ballet Site Map...

2009-10-19T10:25:00.000-07:00

Here's my site map for Carolina Ballet's new site...

Carolina Ballet,Inc. Website Redesign Content Outline

2009-10-16T13:22:00.000-07:00

Website Redesign

Carolina Ballet, Inc.

www.carolinaballet.com

What are the goals of the site?

The goals of this site are the following:

1. To connect with web viewers who may be interested in enriching their lives with the fine art of ballet.

2. To raise donations for community outreach dance programs and education.

3. To contribute to the enhanced reputation and ever-increasing quality of life in our community and the State of North Carolina.

Who are the defined users?

Users of www.carolinaballet.com will be possible audience members, dance students, dancers, employees, sponsors, and anyone remotely interested in ballet.

Who are you trying to reach?

All of the defined users and people who are interested in an ever-increasing quality of life in the community around them.

How will your site benefit them?

They will have access to shows and their schedules, tickets, and story-line. They will also be able to see pictures (giving them more of a preview so they feel better about paying for a ticket). They can find information about dance classes or just information about ballet in general. The site will have instant access to buy tickets or donate. They can also learn about the company, its dancers and choreographers and how ballet can enrich their lives. Students can get information about applying for an internship. Employees can do the same for a job. Sponsors will be acknowledged for their generous effort to support community growth. Kids may find that they have a whole new life's goal after reading and seeing pictures of ballet. This site can benefit almost anyone who has an open mind to classic dance.

To make the above goals and objective happen, I will be creating a website with the following categories:

About CB

who is CB? mission statement & overview
history
repertoire (simplify)
Dancers & Staff
Job/Internship information

Season & Tickets

Full Season at a glance
Show details
Buy tickets (in house and on tour), Packages, Group Sales, Subscribe

Community & Education

kidZclick
cARTwheels
Dancers in Schools
Internships
Ballet Meet-ups
Talkback Blog
Join Jete

Support CB

Why do we need it? Where does it come from? Annual Funding Overview
Benefits of giving support to CB
Ways to give or donate
Volunteer
Partners
Sponsors

Press

Recent articles and noteworthy accomplishments of CB

FAQ

Map/Directions
Seating Charts
Parking
Show etiquette/dress
Hotels/Restaurants nearby
Other questions.....

Word it

2009-10-14T11:25:00.001-07:00

2009-10-14T11:24:00.001-07:00

I will be redesigning the website for Carolina Ballet Inc. I never knew it was a non profit until looking up organizations. I am going for this too because it is different from what I typically work with. I feel like it will have a calming effect maybe in my life to work with something so easy-going.

www.carolinaballet.com

Posting website

2009-10-07T05:51:00.000-07:00

Does anyone know how or where we need to go to publish our websites? I tried it on tripod.com like in lynda, but there are so many adds that are covering my site page now. I thought we had space at peace.edu. How do we access it?

Final Busy Bee Homepage

2009-10-05T09:59:00.000-07:00

So I think this is what I'm going with.... a lighter and more fluid feel throughout the page. Any suggestions?

Busy Bee Comp 2

2009-10-03T10:05:00.000-07:00

So I have been trying to give a lighter feel to my website. I took out some unnecessary elements out and worked with the ones I kept. What do you think?

Busy Bee Comp 1

2009-09-27T19:13:00.001-07:00

Here's the beginning of my first comp for the redesign of Busy Bee's website....

Busy Bee 3 Wireframes....

2009-09-23T12:19:00.000-07:00

So this is the beginning of my website redesign of Busy Bee Cafe and The Hive.....

Inspiration! Flamingo and cheerleader art....

2009-09-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

Okay so check out Cassandra C. Jones if you're looking for a new perspective on design and pattern. She makes intricate designs of flowers and such for wallpaper using things such as flamingos and cheerleaders at an extremely small size. Not only does she do wallpaper design, she also has interesting ideas with motion design time lapse. She collects all of her photos from online or other artists, but uses them in such a way that they become her own artwork. Check her out sometime at

http://boingboing.net/2009/07/30/bb-video-send-me-a-l.html or

http://cassandrac.googlepages.com/

Here are some snapshots of some of her work....

Three Design Career Paths

2009-09-15T05:24:00.000-07:00

If I had to pick a career right this very moment, it would be in working with motion design. I have found a new love while working at my internship in broadcast design at UNCTV- motion graphics. Print is still fun, but there can be so much more energy for the viewer to experience when watching effective motion design. There is such a deep level an artist or team of artists may be able to tap into because of the ability to use different sizes, colors, and depths on screen. I think it may just be that it feels as if the designer is taking the artwork a step further. Sometimes it's not even the designer's own artwork, but the collaboration of the artwork is still a masterpiece. Actually, in my experience, the best motion work comes from collaborative effort.

The main reason though that I want to work in motion design is because that can be one of the most effective ways to reach a massive amount of people. I hope to work for some explorative company someday, such as Discovery Channel or even the History Channel. I think that these channels try to send out information not only to make money and be number one, but they work to help people understand why things are the way they are. I think we need so much more understanding in this world. I think that hate comes from ignorance, no matter who is at fault. There is always a reason for one thing or another and if we can just try to understand, maybe we can have some peace with it. My dream job would be to travel the world working with the Discovery Channel. They have several locations including in New York, California, Atlanta, and more.

Other than motion design, I would probably be most interested in Advertising and Branding or Music and CD design. I say advertising and branding second because it is still so broad, that maybe I could work with print and motion design. I enjoy working to persuade people and can hopefully use my persuasiveness and patience as a designer to make the world a better place. I think that music is also one of those things that can help make the world a better place. The happier people are on a whole, the nicer the world will turn out, right? Hopefully anyway. I think by helping to spread the good feelings that come from good music, I can attribute to this.

There's really not much for me in Raleigh as a motion designer. I can temporarily go work at one of the news stations such as ABC or WRAL. I think news may not be a bad idea, considering that I want to influence a lot of people, but it is too dry for me too often (for me to be interested). I originally wanted to go work for DreamWorks or some major movie production company. There is a call for 3D design right now in working with them though,

which I wold need a lot of training in. I think it is possible, but a lot more work. I also think that working for a company like MTV would be a great job. That logo has been one of the strongest in logo design, yet it has so many versions. It seems like it would be a fun place to work.

Back

2009-09-09T16:52:00.000-07:00

So, I was sitting there thinking....

"Back"....... Hmmm.....

Way "back" when....... Hmmmm....

All these years..... All my experiences.....

All the memories and lessons that have added up to equal my life....

Some years were lighter than ones behind them.

Some years were free and clear of strife.

Looking "back", I would not trade any of it.

Through mistakes I learn and with experience I gain.

Looking "back" 2009 to 1983......

How far back do you look?

My Portfolio Pieces....

2009-09-09T15:52:00.000-07:00

Picking and choosing portfolio pieces has proven to feel bittersweet. As an artist, I have grown attached to some of the pieces that, actually, I should take out of my portfolio all together. On the other hand, I am then able to hone in and focus on my strongest pieces. I think I have thirteen pieces or sets that I am going to incorporate into my portfolio. This includes four motion graphics packages that I have recently worked on at my internship.

The following are what I intend to have mounted and ready for my portfolio this semester:

1. Mayan Desk Calendar

2. Peaceful Place Farms Brochure

3. Human Rights ENG/SPA Piece

4. Root Up Kindness Wellness Center Project

5. Things Fall Apart Book Cover

6. Power of Women Postcard Project

7. Suburban Safari CD Package

8. Sticks and Stones Social Justice Poster

9. Bookworm Cache Corporate Identity Set

10. Black Issues Forum Graphics Package

11. NC Rising Graphics Package

12. Legislative Week In Review Graphics Package

13. Blueprint North Carolina Graphics Package

There are several others that I would love to work on, but I think they are not as strong or purposeful for my intended career path- motion design. I am extremely excited about working with my motion design pieces. I think piecing together the elements and screenshots will be fun. I am hoping to have the time, patience and creativity to make a motion design reel this semester. I am very excited to work on all of my portfolio projects again.

3 Bad Websites....

2009-09-02T08:30:00.000-07:00

The three websites I found that could use improvement are as follows:

- www.wakegov.com

- www.checkintocash.com

- www.crowleysofstonehenge.com

www.WakeGov.com

This website is just a clutter of mess at first glance. Not only does the home page have lists that seem to go on forever, the pages that those links lead you to have more lists of links which lead to more links. The lists also all look so similar in font size, and color that there is no immediate distinction from one to the other. The side navigation changes as you move from page to page. I think the home page leads you to believe that it will stay the same for some reason. This is because I found myself surprised that the side navigation had changed. It made me want to return to the home page to make sure I wasn't missing any important info. I think this website also needs some more white space somehow as well as more consistency throughout it with use of color and list headings.

www.checkintocash.com

First off, the colors that are used for this site- red, white and green- are not my favorite combination (unless it is near Christmas time). There are gradients even using these colors on the home page. I think red may not be the most inviting color to use when trying to convince someone to borrow money with a ridiculous interest rate on return pay. The whole website looks very elementary and unprofessional. As soon as I get onto the site, I feel pressured to give away my information, rather than being coaxed easily or gently. It seems very "car-salesman-like". I think if the colors were changed, this may help tremendously. Also, there is no consistency with the feel of the pages. Main colors change to all green (which is an understandable color for the site, just not consistent).

www.crowleysofstonehenge.com

This website surprised me in that it has no feel of the little "hole-in-the-wall" bar it represents. Crowley's is a little bar that you don't typically want to admit going to, but it is always a ridiculous amount of fun. If one were to guess what it was by the looks of their website, they might not think so. The website is just so bland. There are no pictures. There color choice does not scream "fun!" or "dark dirty bar!". It reminds me of a little family owned italian restaurant that is going out of business. There are only three pages, which are not very pleasing to scroll through. The font color against the background is just disturbing to look at really- not good for reading. This website could use some color, pictures, and maybe something silly or fun to make it seem like more of a place where you can go to enjoy yourself.

3 Websites...

2009-08-31T05:02:00.000-07:00

Three good websites that I use are:

- www.pandora.com

- www.crossroads.org

- www. schedulefly.com

PANDORA.COM

This website seems to be one of the hottest right now. At pandora.com, you can type in an artist or song you like and an online music channel featuring that music is created for you. Not only does it give you a list of similar artists and songs, it also plays them and allows you to skip them if you do not like them. You are able to rate songs or mark them with a thumbs up if you like them. A thumbs up will ensure that it plays more regularly. You can also mark the song thumbs down, which will ensure it is not played anymore. There are also other options you can choose, such as: "I'm tired of this song", "Why was this song selected?" "Move song to another station" "Bookmark" and "Buy". These options put the user in even more control, with a completely personalized radio station.

With 1000's of songs accessible online and in one site, you are now able to listen to music you like and even find new music that is of a similar feel and genre. As you are listening to music, you can also read facts about the artist, the album, and the song. Lyrics are included within the profile of the song, as well as album artwork. There is even a tab that allows a listener to add themselves as a fan and connect to other fans, or listeners. You can create tons of different radio stations on pandora.com.

This site is especially pleasing in that it is simple. There are obviously a limited amount of options when it comes to the actions you are able to perform. The visitor is not overwhelmed by imagery or decisions to make. It is very obvious that the main purpose of the site is to listen to music, but there is also the other option to use the website as a learning tool. It seems as though there is an endless stream of information on its featured artists once the visitor starts to dig. Throughout the website tough, the options are given in separate lists of five or less. They are definitely following the So-Called Rule of Five. It helps to make everything on the site seems so simple and easy.

CROSSROADS.ORG

This is a website for the church I go to. It is a huge church that has over 7,000 members. I believe their website helps bring in new members as well as help people who are already regular attendees and members. This is because it is simple, aesthetically pleasing, gives a lot of feedback and holds a lot of information.

There is consistency in the way the navigation is set up. There are a limited amount of choices, making it easier on the visitor to choose. The links at the top of every page are as follows: Home, About Us, Children, Students, Adults, Make a Difference, Care & Support, and Resources. As you scroll over these links, there is a list of options that drops down. There are a couple that seem like they are a little on the longer side, but they are still not too overwhelming. Most of them only list three to five options. I think these choices give almost anyone who visits a choice that may be what they are looking for or somewhere to check out. There are options to learn about it or get involved. Also, they use imagery to connect the pages to the links. This creates more consistency and flow through out the website. There is constant feedback given to the visitor as you scroll over links, images change, and links are highlighted. This website is very elegant but not cheesy. The colors give a warm, earthy feel.

I think this site makes it very easy for a first time visitor to explore Crossroads without committing (in case they are nervous about going to church or sunday school classes). It may have helped to make the church congregation so large, easing some people into it. There is more than enough information for a person to figure out how they can get involved or if they even want to.

SHEDULEFLY.COM

This site organizes schedules for companies. I have been using it lately because it is how I get my work schedule from the restaurant that I work at. I think this is a good site because it is simple and helps organize lives. On the home page, there are a 5 options at the top, giving the user direction. This site connects to Facebook, Twitter, and even has a Blog Spot. These are just other ways to keep connected with the people you work with. Schedulefly allows you to not only view your schedule, but to make schedule requests or shift trades. You can offer your shift to one person specifically or to anyone who wants it. Since it is connected to Facebook and Twitter, you can even receive alerts when a shift is posted for trade or the new schedule comes out. Email based scheduling is becoming more popular it seems. In order to get my schedule, all I do is login and there it is, on my home page! And with the option to give it up as a link right below the shift info. It doesn't even take three clicks necessarily to get what I want. Also, there is a message board where you can post comments for others you work with. My managers often make announcements on it.

Hairy....

2009-08-30T19:44:00.000-07:00

Haa haa! My roommate's dog, Stella, aka Scruffles, comes to mind.... With her fuzzy painted face, spiked mohawk and long gray beard hairs, she looks like a little old teddy bear come to life.

Proposal Round 3

2009-06-08T18:39:00.001-07:00

2009-06-08T16:57:00.000-07:00

PAge 1 of 2

2009-06-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

2009-06-04T22:53:00.000-07:00

Progress Social Justice...

2009-04-29T06:18:00.000-07:00

Ooops. I forgot to post this the other day. Here's where my poster was going on Monday....

Sticks and stones

2009-04-22T08:27:00.001-07:00

Sandy words

2009-04-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

Who would think it would take 2 and a half hours to draw in the dirt? I miss being a kid. It was easier somehow. Wasn't it? Haa haa. So, now I have this idea to tie everything together. I want to incorporate a woman's face within the sand (if I can figure it out) and to kind of have it cracking. With this idea though, I have not figured out what to do with my sticks and stones.

Here's the drawn type I did just over the last couple of hours....

2009-04-14T19:35:00.000-07:00

I created a beam of light. This effect could help give intensity or emotion to a piece. You can find this tutorial at

http://psd.tutsplus.com/tutorials/photo-effects-tutorials/how-to-break-sunlight-through-the-clouds/

It's not hard to do. Check it out.

Dark Night In Woods Tutorial

2009-04-07T19:22:00.000-07:00

2009-04-03T07:57:00.000-07:00

I made metal type using the Fx options. This tutorial was awesome. there are so many diffent varieties. Check it out if you get the chance

2009-03-25T07:22:00.000-07:00

This tutorial was hard but worth it. I learned how to use adjustment layers and worked with a cool abstract brush.

You can find it at

http://psd.tutsplus.com/tutorials/photo-effects-tutorials/creating-a-touching-story-scene-in-photoshop/

Tutorial

2009-03-18T10:55:00.001-07:00

I made Selma Hyak glow. Sexxxxxy! Enjoy.

The tutorial is at

http://www.photoshplady.com/photoshop-tutorial/sparkling-hot-girl-in-photoshop/

2009-03-18T10:50:00.001-07:00

I have been working on drawing the women I am using in my postcard project. It's going to be a long weekend with the rest of these..... Oh well. I love drawing!

Here they are

Woman Empowerment!

2009-03-16T10:21:00.000-07:00

Watr Tutorial

2009-03-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

I created text that looks like water. I found that if you play with the bevel and embossing, you can make it look more ice-like too. Pretty neat. Typically you would want to use a font that looks like it would be liquid, but I wanted to try something different.

Women POWER!

2009-02-23T08:19:00.000-08:00

For my postcards, I plan on using women activist figures as inspiration. People like Virginia Wolfe, or maybe even women like Mother Theresa, Rosa Parks, Oprah, Georgia Okeefe, Cleopatra, Joan of Arc, Amelia Earhart, and Mary Tyler Moore. I plan on putting a little information about the women featured on the back of the card. I am very excited about this. I am still thinking whether or not it should just be "Woman POWER" or "Behind every great man is an even greater woman". If I go with that, I will do a tribute to "women's firsts". I am catering to an audience of women of all ages. I would like to inspire women to push for greatness and to never let society hold them down.

Here are a few of my original sketches....

2009-02-18T09:01:00.000-08:00

2009-02-18T07:54:00.000-08:00

Hello all. I am blogging to share the solution and design process behind the new logo and identity of Expresskins. It is a web based company that sell Ipod andMP3 Skin covers. The word "express" has a duel meaning- 1. as in quick (in delivery/ and application) 2. as in "to express one's self". I used the font family "Zurich" because it is a san-serif that is slightly different than norm, sleek, and it has about 20 different varieties. I used the Bold and the thin to show contrast. I think contrast is always interesting. I married the two "s" ' to ease the transition somewhat.

It was real hard to get the feel for this logo. I could not figure out how to integrate my IPod drawing into the logo. I wanted a sexy but classy look. A couple of people kept reminding me to go back to the feel of my graphic and sophisticated ipods. After toying with lighting style, I figured it out! I could bring the light into the words! It turned out to give that sexy feel. Then, someone had also mentioned that my "E" could be an IPod. I played and played to make it look like an Ipod. This is actually how I came to a solution for my graphic style iteration. It's funny. The drawing enforced the logo, which then enforced the drawing again!

HelloooOOOO!!!

2009-02-16T12:27:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my first blog. It might get crazy so hold on!