funxionology

This Blog has left the building

2011-04-04T14:04:00.000-07:00

For branding purposes, I have developed a new blog for GIT information, events and opportunities. You will find all of the content from this blog on the new one: http://psugraphics.blogspot.com/

All future posts regarding freelance, internships, announcements, and scholarships will appear on the "new" blog! Thanks

2011 ADDY Carnavale

2011-02-21T08:30:00.000-08:00

Saturday, February 19, 2011, Joplin AAF hosted the 2011 ADDY Carnavale. Our students and instructors won 11 Gold, 18 Silver, Student Best of Show and 2 Special Judges Awards! For more information about the competition, click here.

Entries on display

Caitlin Lawrence and fiance Keith. She won for their wedding invitation package.

Curtis Thornton, Sara Hixon and fiance Matt.

Jessee Swezey checking out her camera before the presentation.

Chris Huitt accepting award from GIT student volunteer, David Staton.

Hillary Reeve Heflin accepting one of her four awards.

Jessee Swezey accepting her first award.

The whole gang!

The Student Best of Show, Lauren White. Special Judge's Award recipient, Sara Hixon. People's Choice Award winner, Jerime Carpenter. Jerime also won a Special Judge's Award, last year!

Jerime and his lovely wife.

Check out a few student perspectives:
Hillary Reeve Heflin
Caitlin Lawrence

Also in attendence:
Kimi Dowling and family
Ian Yates

Student Volunteers | David Staton & Cassie Pierce.

Jenny Durkin | PSU PR Department

Congratulations, Nicole!

2011-02-14T11:19:00.000-08:00

Nicole Smith, Commercial Graphics Major, recently completed a freelance job for the Mount Carmel Foundation 27th Annual Gala. Over 500 invitation packages were printed.

"Nicole did an excellent job of providing exactly what we need, in a very short time frame!" Marlene Willis, Interim Director Mount Carmel Foundation

SCHOLARSHIP: Nolan Moore Memorial Education Foundation

2011-02-11T08:15:00.000-08:00

The Foundation’s main purpose is to support industry education, as well as offering scholarships to students who are pursuing a career in printing technology/management. Since its inception, the Foundation has provided over $150,000 in scholarships to students in Texas, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Missouri.

Eligible students must attend an accredited printing management or technology program and have permanent residence in one of the four states served by PIA MidAmerica. Students must be pursuing a management or technology degree. Those who are interested in design, photography, or web-based careers will not be considered for the scholarship. The application deadline is March 1^st of every year for the school year beginning in the fall.

How to make Custom Swirls

2011-02-08T06:02:00.000-08:00

Veerle's Blog

Bittbox

Swirl Mania in Illustrator and Photoshop

TutVid - YouTube

Room 122

Amazing Free Textures

2011-02-05T10:31:00.000-08:00

Check out these amazing free textures created by Midwest-based designer and digital philanthropist, Caleb Kimbrough. I've also added a link to his site, in the Where did that come from? list to the right. Be sure to read his terms of use! Enjoy!

FX Studios Offering Photo Classes

2011-02-03T17:54:00.000-08:00

Click on the link below to learn more about the photography education offered by FXSTUDIOS.

x|posed: photography education by fxstudios

ADDY Event Information

2011-02-03T17:00:00.000-08:00

February 19th at Holiday Inn | Joplin, MO
6:00 entry viewing, 7:00 dinner and awards
Purchase tickets here! >>> http://aafjoplin.org/addy-awards

We had a total of 15 students enter 37 entries!

All students are welcome and encouraged to attend the banquet, even if you did not submit an entry!

Tutorials from the Heart

2011-02-03T07:39:00.000-08:00

FREE Download (don't forget to copy the terms & conditions)
An Illustration-A-Day Blog (GREAT INSPIRATION)

Create a Valentines Day Illustration for Your Sweetie

How to create abstract Valentine’s Day illustration with hearts in Photoshop CS5

Job Opportunity in Parsons

2011-01-26T12:46:00.000-08:00

Flesh Co in Parsons, is currently making a big push into online commerce. They are currently coordinating their company and a lot of their corporate partners toward a web portal that they are in the process of developing. They currently host 137 different web sites and are moving to this new, more streamlined system.

They are looking for students or former students from PSU to fill several positions, both professional and student level, in the coming months. He really wants to give GIT the first opportunity to fill these spots!

They are in the process of building/revamping their entire Management Information System, MIS. They want students who have graphics production training and an interest in the web to apply for these spots. An ideal applicant would be a graphic designer with an interest in web interaction production - someone who knows how to generate and edit many types of graphics files for use on the web. Web language training/experience would be a plus.

They will consider applicants with as little as 5 hours a week.

Please contact Steve at 620-778-3148 or email kirkpatrick@fleshco.com

$10,000 Scholarship Opportunity

2011-01-19T11:31:00.000-08:00

TLMI is pleased to announce scholarship opportunities for college candidates enrolled in a degree program with major coursework that is appropriate for the tag and label manufacturing industry. We are offering scholarships for students in a 2 year or 4 year degree program.

For details regarding these scholarships, please see the attached documents or visit our website at www.tlmi.com and download the applications found under the AWARDS tab on our home page.

It is our hope that these scholarships will encourage your students to pursue a career in this industry and especially with one of TLMI’s member companies.

Please note that the deadline for submission to TLMI is March 31st.

If you have any questions, please feel free to call or write to us at office@tlmi.com.

GEF Scholarships

2011-01-19T07:18:00.000-08:00

We have some very good news for you and your students. The GEF will be offering 9 Scholarships this year.

The deadline has been extended to April 22, 2011 to allow more time for students application and essay entries.

Students may apply for one or for all, and must provide a transcript and the appropriate essay.

"We do not know the status of Grants for the coming year, but the number of students from your school will be a weighted measurement in the decision for the amount of grants. So, please encourage students to apply. They need to have a 3.0 GPA, send a transcript, and write a 300-500 word essay. Last year 5 students from Clemson earned the GEF scholarships, and some schools did not have any applicants, so please encourage them to apply."

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Information and applications are on the website:

www.gaa.org/gravure-education-foundation .

$50 for Fire & Ice

2011-01-18T13:58:00.000-08:00

A local high school Prom Committee is interested in paying one of you $50 for a logo design to use on all of their Prom promotional materials. The theme is Fire and Ice. It doesn't have to be literal, and they would like to use silver instead of blue for the "ice" element.

All entries should be emailed to Christel Benson as a PDF by March 1, 2011.

The Winning Design.....

2010-11-29T14:23:00.000-08:00

Jordan Frederick | Image Composition 241

Our class was recently given the opportunity to utilize their Photoshop and Illustrator skills to create a poster for an upcoming event with Santa. This event is sponsored by both PHS Drama and the Mount Carmel Foundation. With a few minor tweaks, you will see this poster all over town. Great job, Jordan!

Addy Awards | Call for Entries

2010-11-22T14:45:00.000-08:00

What is the American Advertising Federation?>

Rules & Categories>
Event Details>
Last year 4 PSU students won 11 awards, including Best of Show>

Christel Benson will hold a one-time information session about the event and how to enter the contest. All entries must be entered BEFORE THE END OF THE SEMESTER, since the final deadline occurs while we are on break.

Those of you who attended the Choice Marketing field trip will remember seeing their Addy Awards on display.

Awards on display at Brady Communications in Pittsburgh, PA

Think outside of the rectangle.....

2010-11-05T08:00:00.000-07:00

80+ Creative & Unique Business Cards

Web Designer Wall

This immediately made me think of Senior Projects! Almost all of the proposed projects have a business card as one of their promotional pieces. These are great examples (especially if you are only creating 1) of how to really set yourself apart!

Color in Design Awards

2010-11-05T07:42:00.000-07:00

Deadline: November 16

Cost: $40 first entry, $30 for each additional
Details Here.....

Field Trip: Choice Marketing

2010-11-04T09:55:00.001-07:00

You don't want to miss this! Sign up before 4 pm, TODAY, in the GIT Office!

Flexible Jobs that Pay Well

2010-11-04T08:07:00.000-07:00

Career #2 - Graphic Designer

Graphic designers create and communicate ideas visually, verbally, and in writing. As a graphic designer, you could find yourself developing and designing publications, creating brochures for products, or even designing logos for businesses.

Freedom Factor: Freelance graphic designers often work from home offices and can set their own hours. If you're a creative person, you may find many jobs repetitive and stifling... but not this one!

Training: Earning an associate's degree or certificate in graphic design from a two-year or three-year professional school should qualify you as an assistant to a graphic designer.

Salary: According to the American Institute of Graphic Arts, staff-level graphic designers had a median salary of $45,000 in 2008.

Check out our Pittsburg State University!

Four States Regional Technology Conference

2010-10-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

Four State Regional Technology Conference

The Four State Regional Technology Conference (FSRTC) has been a source for the professional development of technology teachers (college/university, high school and middle school), teacher educators, industrial technology teachers, engineering technology, school-to-careers, and multimedia technology teachers. A newer conference track now features human resources.

68th Four State Regional Technology Conference

Location: Pittsburg State University/Kansas Technology Center
Date: November 11-12, 2010
Theme: 21st Century Technology Showcase

Door Prizes
50+ Programs
Vendor Exhibits

For more details, check out the College of Technology site!

Anyone want to Intern with the Chiefs

2010-10-25T07:10:00.000-07:00

Graphic Design Internship opportunity with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Job ID in Gorillas4Hire is: 11476

Job Description:	The Kansas City Chiefs are seeking a candidate for our winter internship in our graphic design department. This internship would start the beginning of December 2010. (Start time is subject to change depending on circumstances) This internship is for someone who is willing to work at least 3-4 days a week. The internship includes working with the Chiefs Graphic Designer and other departments within the organization. Duties will include but are not limited to: • Designing promotional material (posters, print ads, postcards, brochures) • Web graphics • Brand Management (Logo) • Event support (invitations, signage) • Illustration and photograph • Assist Graphic Designer as needed This is a very hand’s on internship. We are looking for someone who wants to grow and learn with lots of energy!
Qualifications:	Education: This internship is for college students. This is an unpaid internship and must receive college credit. For candidates that are working towards a degree in Graphic Design. Must know basic programs on a Macintosh computer. Including Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Acrobat and Font Management. Excellent attention to detail. Comfortable working on multiple projects with tight deadlines in a fast-pace team environment.
*Application Instructions:	If this sounds like you please send your resume, cover letter and at least 5 portfolio pieces to: Ashley Mulready amulready@chiefs.nfl.com

image source | http://www.nflfootballstadiums.com/Arrowhead.htm

Excerpts from an Expert

2010-10-18T07:44:00.000-07:00

Several very lucky students, faculty and community professionals took advantage of a rare opportunity on Friday, October 15. In celebration of Homecoming at PSU, Brendan Murphy was on campus to receive an Outstanding Alumni award.

He presented several case studies on Brand Management, the development process that goes into restructuring a brand and some of the steps in implementing this process. He also emphasized the importance of our role as communicators. Regardless of the output we are communicating a message. Writing is extremely important in our profession, and he would not be a VP without his writing skills. One other element of his presentation I focused on is that when developing an icon/logo for a company they sometimes go through thousands of revisions before landing on "the one." Keep this in mind the next time you work on thumbnails.

I had the privilege to ask him a few questions throughout the day and he was generous enough to expand on his responses to me in an email.

Technology changes and rapidly.
While investment in technology and computer programs is critical to educational infrastructure, this should not be confused with the education of our students. We must constantly ask ourselves what are we preparing our students for? The shift from paper to screen is still in its infancy. However the fundamentals of good communication are constant.

The Technology Center.
The success of the technology center from a student and university perspective will be its ability to connect with all schools in the university, to nurture and if necessary force collaboration. This is both a challenge and an opportunity.

Internships
This is always difficult and incredibly competitive.
Frankly, we are unlikely to compete with the pure design schools for "design" internships.
However, we can expose broaden students perspectives through tours and with guest lecturers.

Finally…
One question that we must keep returning to is What makes us different?
It may be that we in fact want to be competitive and not different.
However its critical that we define who we are. This will help us define and refine the curriculum.

Ready for the Real World?

2010-10-08T10:36:00.000-07:00

Show Your Stuff

2010-09-17T09:08:00.000-07:00

Labette Community College in Parsons, Kansas has offered to set up a
Graphics and Imaging Technologies student show
for the month of October in their main gallery, The Hindershot.

If you have print work you're proud of and would like the opportunity
to show it in a gallery setting, please submit.

It's free and will make an excellent item for your resume!

Here's what we want for the show:
- 2D or 3D printed pieces
- Poster and other single panel pieces should be mounted on some kind
of matt board or illustration board to be displayed on the walls.
- Folded pieces will be put in a display case. Include more than one
copy of each so viewers can see the front and inside view of your
folded work.
- Please include a post it note that has your name and the type of
work the piece represents (brochure, package, screen print,
photograph, et cetera)

Here's how to submit for the show:
It's easy, just drop your work off outside of David Oldham's office,
E110D. Lay it on the shelf opposite the door, next to the slide
projector.

Time is limited. The show goes up September 29, 2010.

We REALLY want to represent our department well, so please submit your
best work!

Submissions are subject to space availability and is limited to around 30 to 40 pieces.

Contact David Oldham, doldham@pittstate.edu, 620-235-6140, for more
information.

Impressive Student Submissions

2010-09-16T14:46:00.001-07:00

My Image Composition class has been working on Typographic Illustrations and as I started grading files today I was really blown away by some of the submissions. Keep in mind some of these students are Freshmen and some of them have never used Illustrator before!

Angela Slater

Stephanie Eckert

Shahd Alhazzaa

Emily Smalley

Cassie Pierce

Jordan Frederick

Kathryn Shaw

Robin Mooney

Jentry Craig

Trenton Morris

Who needs $75?

2010-09-16T14:10:00.000-07:00

The Business Education Alliance would like to extend invitations for graphic artists within the community to submit a new logo for the organization. We are offering a $75 prize as well as recognition (on the brochure) of the winning artist and company he/she works for.

A draft of the BEA brochure that states our mission and describes our events can be emailed to you as a PDF. Contact me for the file christel8500@yahoo.com

Please use this information to assist in your logo creation. The winning logo will be placed in the blank space on the front of the brochure.

We encourage and will accept submissions from students as well. If a student’s logo is chosen, his or her name and school will be listed for recognition.

The deadline to submit logos is Tuesday, October 5, and should be in the form of a .JPG image. Please send image(s) to Ruthie Muller (rmuller@pitsco.com) with a subject heading “BEA logo submission”. The winning logo will be chosen at the October 6 BEA Executive Committee meeting.

Internship?

2010-08-25T07:24:00.000-07:00

Celltron, Inc. currently has a few internships listed on Gorillas4Hire, but we have a particular need for Marketing Intern that has experience in Graphics and/or Web Design. Specifically, this intern would be working with management and the CEO on Marketing related projects.

Any students who may be interested can send their resume, cover letter, and any questions they may have to norman.ashley@celltron.com

Who loves FREE?

2010-08-13T10:45:00.000-07:00

50 Free Vector Illustrator Patterns and Resources

As you download this gold mine of vectors, pay close attention to the user agreements. Yes, they are free, but some have strings attached....artist wants credit, cannot resell the patterns, etc. Use responsibly!

FREE Freelance T-Shirt design opportunity

2010-08-13T08:24:00.000-07:00

DEADLINE: October 15, 2010

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Crawford County has contacted us for another T-shirt design. I plan to make this a class assignment, but want to give everyone an opportunity. The only specifics I have are listed below. Adults will be wearing these shirts.

T-shirts should have the agency logo and indicate on the shirt that they are with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Crawford County. Ultimately there will be two versions of the same design, one for Brothers and one for Sisters:
Colors: Blue for Ask me about my Little Brother
Pink for Ask me about my Little Sister

I'm guessing the shirts will be white, and for budget purposes I suggest making the design 1 color. Bright pinks and blues would probably work best.

Please submit all designs as follows:

file name: your name_bbbs tshirt.pdf
Format: Illustrator file saved as PDF
Illustrator artboard size: 11 x 8.5
email to me: clbenson@pittstate.edu

Below is the GIT student design for their spring Tryathlon, which they loved! The primary audience for this design was the children who participated in the events. Graphics and Imaging student, Jerime Carpenter, designed the event logo and T-shirt graphic.
Also, this is the only version of their logo they provded:

Poster Design Competition

2010-08-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

This is a call for entries for the second Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) Promotional Poster Design Competition. The poster will be used in colleges, high schools and technical schools to promote the availability of scholarships available through PGSF.

Each year PGSF awards 200, or more, college level scholarships ranging in value from $2,000 to $5,000. The scholarships continue with the student as long as a 3.0 GPA is maintained, so that students only need apply once.

Many PGSF scholarship recipients received scholarships through their full college career. The new poster will be used beginning in academic year 2011–2012. A hard copy must be submitted by the instructor. The winner of the contest must submit all files required for reproduction.

Entries are due by April 10, 2011.

Judging will be in April and the winner will be notified by May 15. Please encourage students in your school to enter the PGSF Poster Competition either as individuals or as part of class assignment or project. Additional printed copies of the current poster will be available if that would be of help. Please contact me and let me know how many copies you would like.

Poster design entries must include the following;

Prominent display of the name Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF).
Emphasis on the availability of scholarships.
List of applicant qualifications (see current poster for list)
Visible dates when scholarship applications are due (see current poster for dates).
Show address and contact information (see current poster for details).
Posters will be printed in 11×17-in. size for display in schools. Poster will also be printed as small as 5½× 8½-in. in books or used as display on a webpage. Please consider these dimensions when creating the graphics or choosing a typeface.
Include entrant’s school name and name of creative designer or names of team members. Please place near lower border in smaller type.
Bright and highly visible colors are suggested.

The winning entrant will receive an award certificate and will be honored in a national news release. More than 2,000 full size posters will be distributed to other schools with graphics programs. If you have any questions or if I may be of assistance please email me at beckert@printing.org or call: 412-259-1740.

Sincerely,
Bernie Eckert, Program Administrator

Can you do better?

2010-2011 Winning Poster

Teacher's Update | Our Final Day

2010-07-20T18:05:00.000-07:00

In reflection mode, it's amazing to me what they were able to squeeze into a half day session, on the last day of the Teacher's Update session. Julie covered Social Networking for Printers. Byan and Dave discussed Variable Data and how they implement this with Digital Printing.

One toner drum....of course the big question was "how much do those cost"

Taking a peek under the hood

I was finally able to squeeze in a quick trip to the Andy Warhol museum before hitting the airport. It was worth it!

Not only was I entranced by the actual canvases, but the display of his history was impressive as well. It was a combination of great images and typography.

Instead of waiting on the shuttle I hit the pavement and walked back to the hotel. It was about a mile, but there was so much to soak in through the Cultural District, I barely noticed the walk!

Thanks for Dinner Joe

2010-07-15T19:39:00.001-07:00

Tonight Joe treated our group, Greg and Tom to dinner at Rolands, in the Strip District

This was our first outing with Donna, she's local, so she has had the luxury of sleeping in her own bed every night!

Steve, Joe and Natalia having a very deep and meaningful conversation about JDF, MIS and CIP4....do you believe me?

Dinner was excellent! Stuffed shells, hot italian sausage, chicken, potatoes and veggies

Chi and Tom

Thanks to Natalia we had a little surprise for Joe.....his own 6 pack!

Natalia bought an extra apron the night we were at Hoffbrau, and we all signed it. You could see the joy in his eyes as she tied it around his waist....he stood taller, his chest swelled....I don't think he'll ever take it off....

Oh, and it feels so nice, too!

The waitress was nice enough to take this photo with 6 different cameras!

Dinner was great, Joe, thanks. The entire week has been an unforgettable experience for all of us. We have had many discussions on the content we have been exposed to and all of us are in awe that we have had the opportunity to experience this first hand. PIA is an amazing organization and the Teacher's Update conference is truly a gift to each of us. All of the instructors this week have done a great job and each one has had a wealth of information to share with us.

Teacher's Update | In the Trenches

2010-07-15T15:12:00.001-07:00

Today was our "field trip" day! While one group went to Ditto Document Solutions, the other toured Brady Communications, a Marketing Communications firm.

Leah Osley, Brand Strategy Diretor, took excellent care of us.

Their awards.....

This clever self promo piece and snazzy note pad were waiting on us in the "board room"

Marilyn made signs directed you to the ladies room!

A few more awards!

The "work" room

Photo prop storage

Designer and Art Director giving us a demo of the iPad Wine and Dinner menu application they developed for a cruise line

The client specifically requested photos of food NOT be used so within 4 days they had to develop these clever icons to accompany the food selections.

Art Director's work space.....oozes creativity, don't you think!

This chart is an example of their work flow. It helps keeps the team on task for each of their many clients.

Production team giving an explanation of the latest Boy Scouts of America annual report. He was discussing how they used a recycled, uncoated sheet, and had to maintain close contact with the printer and watch the ink density to make sure the art work held it's nice black areas.

They have 7 designers on staff and 5 print production people. They like to have their files as close to perfect when they are sent off to print. Don't we all!

One production artist's super hero collection

We also got to chat with the primary photographer/designer for Del Monte

Artwork collage in the entry way

Nice photographic display advertising "on the way"

PIA book store

Along the hall of PIA and even in the restrooms there are award winning print industries framed

This just might be my single most favorite person at PIA....Kathy. She has organized the most amazing meals for us. We have been eating quiche, sandwich wraps, breaded pork chops, meatloaf and mashed potatoes, Caesar salad, and peach cobbler, and chocolate cupcakes… just to name a few! Thanks for the extra pounds, Kathy!

Tom came through for us! Yesterday while demonstrating the folder, he told us he would trim some of the pamphlets we were test folding. They are basic printing information pamphlets, perfect for our classrooms. He not only trimmed them, he packaged and wrapped them for us!

Chibaud and Dr. Mark, although Mark claims he is not a "geek" he is leaps and bounds beyond the rest of us when it comes to his knowledge of the "science" of printing. He also knows everything there is to know about JDF's.

Bill should be on staff at PIA. He's part of our class, but has served as a personal tour guide for the hotel group. Each night we've met in the lobby and said "Ok, Bill, where we going tonight?" He is very familiar with Pittsburgh, and has not failed us yet! Bill is from Ohio and is a hardcore rollerblader.

We got so many great things to take home from PIA, I had to make a pit stop at Fed Ex to ship a few things home. I snapped this lion on my walk back to the hotel.

Science and Chemistry....of Printing

2010-07-14T19:22:00.000-07:00

Today was the day for a lot of math, science and chemistry. To quote Joe, our fearless leader, who has yet to appear on the blog....Brad Evans is the "Paper and Ink God" and I think we would all agree.

This is a sample from a court case where the ink company blamed the paper company and vice versa; Brad was called in for consultation and the results showed that the presses were not thoroughly cleaned between cover ink and insert ink. The wax/teflon in the cover ink caused the lovely effect from the friction of transporting the 1.5 million catalogs to be shipped.

The Paper and Ink God explain the different printing problems he's consulted on over the years.

Piling on a blanket

Lots of discussion about ISO standards from Greg. Especially ISO 12647.
A brief overview of gory printing accidents and why this industry is on Osha's hot list for amputee's. Then right before lunch, and excellent presentation from Julie Shaffer on internet communications. I have a very long list of links to provide from her presentation, but we will hear from her again on Friday, so I will wait and list them all together!

Tom has 25+ years in the industry, primarily as a pressman, but he gave us an excellent bindery/finishing demonstration. It was very refreshing to see someone with his years of expertise so excited about new technology.

We knew we were going to be on the press today, so an elite few of us purchased special aprons from dinner at the Hoffbrau.

Mark a.k.a. Phil from Massachusetts,
doesn't have an "r" in his vocabulary...it's "Lobsta, riva, dinna"

This brand new installation was just up and running in time for a demonstration

Then we moved over to the press! We watched the entire process of printing the posters we proofed yesterday. Greg and Jim were extremely patient with us as a group. They explained all of the steps and gave us a chance to be as involved as we wanted to be.

I remember sitting at home in Pittsburg, KS, watching this episode with Blake, thinking, as I often do with these episodes....WHO EATS THAT! Tonight....it was me!

I cannot say enough positive things about this organization and this experience.

Round 2 in Pittsburgh

2010-07-13T19:29:00.000-07:00

Among everything else I learned today, one of the most exciting was that Pitt State has four scholarship recipients from PIA!

AM and FM Dot Pattern demonstration

As the sessions progress I find myself with a healthy list of resources I want to utilize and share! The following list has been covered thus far:
Font Management
Free Font Management for those without the cash for Suitcase
Green Printing
Web to Print Test Drive
Technical Association of Graphic Arts
Biodegradable Chips Packaging
Looking for a JOB? Post your resume FREE!
GraphCOMMcentral

In class Preflight project. Red x indicates mistakes software will NOT find. Joe was able to provided us with a very thorough 2 page check list he uses. I will have this in PDF format, soon.

Yesterday we had a quick photo session where we each took a turn as model, photographer and editor. We then edited our photos, placed them in a template layout, which was placed in this poster template and today we made plates for it.

Dave discussing the RIP process

Looking under the hood of the Creo Trendsetter 800/Quantum

By the end of the day, I had pages of notes to share with you, but it's late so I'm just going to hit the highlights! It was definitely an acronym day. Instead of Snap, Crackle, Pop, they use a method referred to as SWOP, GRACL (General Requirements in the Application of Commercial Lithography), SNAP (Specifications for Newsprint Advertising Publications)

1 bit Tiff on the RIP = IRS (Interpreted, Rasterized, Screened)

From Pittsburg to Pittsburgh

2010-07-12T19:16:00.000-07:00

2010 GASC/Printing Industries of America Teacher’s Update
July 12–16, 2010
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
I am one of 20 lucky attendees at the 2010 GASC/Teacher’s Update
During the five day workshop we will gain an understanding of new technologies for education, training, and retraining needs of tomorrow’s work force. This one-week program includes both laboratory and classroom sessions in Printing Industries of America’s production facility, which showcases the latest equipment and cutting-edge technology.

We had two sessions today and a tour of their amazing facility.

I'm guessing this person spends a lot of time on the phone....this was on one employees desk during the tour.

This sign applies to the photo preceding it.

Drying rack in the R & D section.

Headed to dinner at Station Square

Then some of the group rode the tram up Washington Mountain for this amazing view.

We rode the train to dinner, but walked back across this bridge to get back to the hotel

Ice cream was necessary to wait for the night view

From the bridge walking back to the hotel

I forgot to add this picture yesteraday...these beautiful sunflowers were in the hotel lobby as we were waiting for the shuttle. I couldn't help but think of "home"

Upcoming Web Workshops

2010-06-16T12:17:00.000-07:00

I know few if any of you are small business owners, but I thought this Web Workshop opportunity might help you in your future design endeavors. You could get some insight information on what clients need the most help with in designing their site, and how you can further help them with SEO and social networking!

Web Workshops
Learn how to use the internet to maximize your business

Presentations by Chris Nastav, KC Web Specialists, LLC, Experts in how business gets done on the Internet

The Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting three Internet workshops to help its membership explore the benefits and procedures of utilizing and embracing the world of the Internet. The workshops will be held Wednesday, August 4.

The first workshop, starting at 8:00 am, will give you "Tips on the Best Use of Your Website and Design."

The second workshop, starting at 9:00 am, will give you insight on "How to Make Google Love Your Website."

The third workshop, starting at 10:00 am, is "Social Media for Small Business."

The sessions are 45 minutes with a 15 minute break between. Space is limited so call the Chamber today to reserve your spot in one, or all of the workshops. Call 620.231.1000, or email cpeterson@pittsburgareachamber.com.

The workshops are free to Chamber members and $5 per session for non-members. Coffee and refreshments will be provided for all of the workshops.

Logo Re-Design

2010-06-03T07:51:00.000-07:00

Opportunity to re-design an existing logo for 3 Sport Fitness.
Contact: Duston Morris
email: 3sportfitness@gmail.com
Current website.

Web Freelance Opportunities

2010-06-03T07:29:00.001-07:00

I have been contacted about a few freelance opportunities, if you are interested please contact the following. Remember, Freelance is a great way to sharpen your skills, gain client interaction experience, enhance your portfolio and make contacts for jobs! Good luck!

New Web Site
Diane Letner
Day phone: 235-4096 or Evening at 249-9994
dletner@pittstate.edu

PHP Web Opportunity
Local company looking for an individual that
can help us maintain our company websites. The code we are working with is PHP.
Please contact me via email or at the phone number below.

Cathy Edwards
(PH)1-800-835-0606 ext 205

Check out Your Competition

2010-05-03T11:37:00.000-07:00

50 Best Color Sites for Designers

2010-05-03T10:47:00.000-07:00

"Seek the strongest color effect possible...the content is of no importance"
Henri Matisse

This link will take you directly to a complete listing of the 50 Best Color Sites for Designers. As you know, for print design it is not recommended to pick a palette from your screen, BUT, with Pantone book in hand, these will give you some great examples and if nothing else it make for fabulous eye candy!

Want to stay on top of the latest color trends.....

Also, if you are interested, and you should be, in managing color in Illustrator, the following is a great article and demo on iStockphoto.com: Global Color

When I grow up I want to be a…

2010-04-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

Graphic Designer.

What is Graphic Design? >>
I found this excerpt on the AIGA site and would love to have this printed on a business card. I can't tell you how many times I've had to "explain" my title. To our accountant, my children's teachers and even my own family. They all want to know, so what do you actually "do"?

As the end of semester gets closer the graduating seniors seem to have elevated stress levels...stressed about upcoming interviews, no interviews, where to go for interviews, what to take, what to wear, how to present their work, and on and on and on.

Graduating Senior or soon to be, you should find something useful on this post:
Your First Time…
Get it in writing
Ten Common Mistakes

Excerpt from AIGA
One of the most important things a prospective graphic design student can do is to discover for themselves as much as possible about the profession outside the college curriculum. Early in their college studies, students should visit design firms and talk to people successfully practicing graphic design. This will help them know what to demand of the curriculum, will put them in touch with the reality of the profession, and in turn will make them more marketable to an employer…read more here

Internships & J.O.B.S.
Guide to Internships
Graphic Design: A Career Guide
Salary Guide
Your Competition
Where to work

How Design Conference

2010-04-26T18:02:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's pricey, but worth every penny! This is the type of experience that you would benefit from as a student or professional! Certainly worth taking a peek at. . . .just in case you happen to be near Denver during June 6-9!

Just a few of the featured sessions:

6. Creating Five-Alarm Concepts - Von Glitschka

FOCUS: Student , My Career , Creativity

Blurb: Print-On-Demand and the Evolution of Book

FOCUS: Software , Technology & Production

12. How to Create and Deliver Your Best Portfolio - Donna Farrugia

FOCUS: Student , Freelance , My Career , Creativity

13. Good vs. Great Design: A Reprise - Cameron Moll

FOCUS: Web and Interactive Design , Creativity

Pump up your library

2010-04-19T08:16:00.001-07:00

Check out this website for great selections of all price ranges on books related to design. Right now they are promoting free shipping on some orders, and a category of books $15 and Under! I've ordered from this company and am very pleased with their products!

I purchased an earlier version of this book 7 years ago and have found it hard to live without it. This new version has just been released.

Team Project: The Flower Bed Florist Shop

2010-03-29T12:50:00.000-07:00

Both classes are participating in a team web design project. The goal is to experience the process of designing a site, dividing up the responsibilities, and staying on task to meet their deadline. In researching the blogs, I've stumbled upon two valuable resources: 1. 35 Excellent Wireframing Resources 2. Free Printable Wireframing paper You are welcome.

The color scheme.

In class brainstorm session results: Word Matrix based on Flowers

In class session: Site map thought process

Winning logo design after revisions.

Portfolio Suggestions

2010-03-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

Excerpt from You the Designer: The One Page Graphic Design Portfolio Guide
Tips for Creating a One Page Graphic Design Portfolio
1. Register your own domain and get a paid hosting plan, don’t try and use any free services
2. Keep the layout of the site simple, but don’t be afraid to let some of your personal design style out
3. Find the right balance between low file size and quality for your images
4. Make your contact information easy to find at the top of the site
5. Write a brief 2-3 sentence bio about yourself to personalize the site
6. Link to a downloadable PDF version of your resume that is under 2mb in size
7. Don’t add an excessive number of items to your graphic design portfolios, twelve or so pieces should be fine, but you could go a little higher or lower
8. Add a case study (brief description) under each project
9. Validate your websites CSS and XHTML
10. Do not put any Google ads or other advertisements on your portfolio site

Check out their site for more helpful suggestions.

Copyright:
I would also suggest you add either a For Creative Commons or Copyright statement to your blog since you are displaying your own work.

What do mouse tracks look like?

2010-03-08T18:31:00.000-08:00

This image is a graphic representation of a mouse path after working for 3 hours in Photoshop.
Want to make one of your own…

Questions about the Addys

2010-03-07T19:27:00.000-08:00

Why
I cannot stress to you the value of competing in the Addy Awards, and of course WINNING! For any winner, but especially a student to list an award on their resume, it is truly a gold seal of approval to your potential employer.

Judging
For those of you who do not know, each entry is judged on set criteria; no one wins by default. It is also possible for more than one gold award to be given in a category.

I also want to note that the judges are from the "region" but not local. This year judges came from Tulsa and NW Arkansas. All gold winners have the chance to go on and compete at the National level.

Event
The event is typically held in February, so entries will be due in January 2011.

Anything entered has to have first been created in 2010.

Cost
This year, student entry fees were $15 and the event ticket was $15. To qualify for the student category entries have to be a classroom project. You may enter freelance work, but as a professional not as a student.

More Info
Check out the Joplin Ad Club site for additional details. They will have a PDF list of the winners, as well as a link to the Contest Rules.

More details about WHAT the American Advertising Federation is can be found here. More about ADDY Awards here.

DO NOT HESITATE to contact me for more information about this event or if you want help with your entries!

2009-2010 Joplin Ad Club Student Categories:
STUDENT CATEGORIES:
SALES PROMOTION
1A. Packaging
1B. Point of Purchase

COLLATERAL MATERIAL
2A. Stationery Package
2B. Brochure, Annual Report
2C. Poster
3. DIRECT MARKETING

4. OUT-OF-HOME

5. NON-TRADITIONAL ADVERTISING

CONSUMER or TRADE PUBLICATION
6A. Single
6A. Campaign (2 - 4 ads)

NEWSPAPER
7A. Ad
7B. Insert
7C. NP Ad or Insert Campaign (2 - 4 ads)

INTERACTIVE MEDIA
8A. Website
8B. Interactive CD/DVD
8C. Online Advertising (Pop-Up/Banner/Email/Other)

EDITORIAL DESIGN
Any two-page spread. One editorial spread or feature per entry.
Not intended for submission of entire book or magazine.
9A. Cover
9B. Editorial Spread or Feature (One editorial spread or feature
per entry)
9C. Series (Covers or spreads or features)

10. RADIO

11. TELEVISION

12. CAMPAIGNS (Mixed Media)

ELEMENTS OF ADVERTISING
13A Logo
14A Illustration
14B Digitally Enhanced Illustration
15A Photography
15B Digitally Enhanced Photography
16 Animation

Award Winning Students

2010-03-05T07:42:00.000-08:00

The Joplin Ad Club hosted their 2009-2010 ADDY Awards on Saturday, February 27. There were 234 entries from 26 different designers/companies. It gives me great pleasure report that Pittsburg State University was well represented at this event and walked away with a total of 15 of these awards.

Christel Benson and Kendra Leikam posing with EVERYONE'S awards. The two big ones were awarded to students Kendra and Jerime Carpenter.

These are shots from the entries displayed before the event.

Christel Benson, Salman Alkhulif, Jerime Carpenter, and Kendra Leikam (not pictured: Siu Ning Man)

The Joplin Globe ran a story on all of the event winners.

Christel Benson, received two gold and two silver

Our Graduates Know Their Business ad campaign
Casie Hermansson Loves Kid Lit Business Card
Mt. Carmel – Protect Your Hills T-shirt
Pittsburg Area Chamber of Commerce Women of Distinction Calendar (Blake, Don Runyon, PittCraft Printing)

Kendra Leikam, two gold, two silver, and a Special Judge's Award

CD package design for Advanced Page Layout
Photo Seminar poster
Digitally enhanced photography
Bic Layout

Salman Alkhulif, one gold, two silver

Self-promotion Website
EID Poster
No Smoking poster

Siu Ning Man, one silver; package design for Advanced Page Layout

Only for Child candy packaging for Advanced Page Layout

Jerime Carpenter, one gold Special Judge’s Award

CD package design for Advanced Page Layout