ART 425 - ADVERTISING DESIGN
SELF-PROMOTION PROJECT
In addition to a well thought out Resume (Curriculum Vitae), and a similarly well planned and impeccable Portfolio, many graphic designers and practicing artists develop Self-Promotion elements and/or "packages." The purpose of these Self-Promotion efforts is to "promote / sell" the professional services of a designer and/or artist, whether it be as an employee, as a "free lance" contractor, or if you are trying to place your art production (show, publication, etc.) A well designed Self-Promotion "package" is an integral part of a marketing strategy to "capture" the attention of prospective client(s) or employer(s) and "sell" them your services or products. If you (your services) are the product to be sold, then the Self Promotion "package" could be described as the centerpiece of your advertising campaign.
A well designed "Self-Promotion "package" makes available basic information about the designer/artist and at the same time provides an opportunity to showcase samples of your work for the prospective employer/client to review (preview). In addition, it's the ideal situation for the designer/artist to demonstrate his/her capacity to carry out a project from concept to finished product.
Because Self-Promotion "packages" are often mailed or hand delivered they should be "manageable", easy to handle, and sturdy. It should provide as much information and as many samples of your work as you consider necessary to get your "message" across. As in any good advertising element for a "new product" it should have a good balance between the aspects of Recall (Memorability), Persuasion (sales proposition), and Appeal (Likability).
You want the prospective employer/client:
• To remember you, your name and how to get in touch with you, and to have your basic information available (accessible) when and if he/she may need your services/product. Be succinct and to the point.
• To develop an appreciation and ultimately to be convinced of the quality of your work, your commitment to your profession (trade), and your sense of responsibility. Don't be shy or coy, be assertive and clear.
• To "like" and "enjoy" your Self-Promotion "package", even before it's opened. If it's not "attractive", curious, different and thus appealing, it probably won't make pass the secretary or assistant.
The following will be required for this class exercise:
For this project you are required to make a decision (real or hypothetical) regarding your professional interest(s). You can decide to present yourself (your business) as a graphic designer or any other type of designer, an artist (personal expression), an art educator, a photographer, an illustrator, an animator, a video/film director, any combination of the previous, or some other related endeavor or business. You can also decide to present yourself (your business) as an "all-around" provider of creative art work/services in all its forms; a "jack of all trades."
In addition, for this project you should also prepare an updated resume or curriculum vitae (or a dated list of accomplishments and achievements) and if available, a student portfolio 5 piece (minimum) or examples of your work.
In the development of a promotional concept and the preparation of a Self-Promotion "package" for the purpose described above, all formats will be considered in adherence with the objective and concept.
ALL FINAL WORK FOR THIS PROJECT IS DUE ON THURSDAY, APRIL 26th
Review of work in progress:
- Thursday April 12, (Concept review)
- Tuesday April 17, (Format Review)
- Thursday April 19, (Copy/visuals Review)
- Tuesday April 24 (Prototype Review).
Useful Links?
40 examples of Self Promotion elements
IdN Magazine (International Designers Network) - Self Promo Issue
Web Self Promotion example
A cute and informative animation...
