Project purpose or objectives
The primary objectives of this project were to:
- Create a set of free logo templates that could be used in a variety of applications.
- Develop a collection of minimalistic iconography to supplement the logo templates.
- Gain experience in the logo design and branding process, including concepting, drafting, and refining visual assets.
The Project
Over the course of the project, I was able to create:
- 3 unique vector logo templates
- 12 separate supporting icons also in vector format
- 4 creative business card designs with fair use
- An intro animation project featuring a moving ball
Challenges Encountered
The primary challenge I faced was creating logos that were sufficiently vague and open-ended to be used in various contexts, while still maintaining a distinct and recognizable design.
Another issue I encountered was the simple animation of the ball. I attempted on 4 separate occasions to export the final animation only to have my computer crash. I had no clue why a simple 25 frame animation was putting so much strain on my computer until my mentor had me check my artboard size and realized that I was creating 20ft frames.
Project Processes
My project was made of different smaller projects, but the main project was the logos. I spent approximately 2 hours sketching and drafting logo ideas, exploring different styles, shapes, and compositions. I worked closely with my mentor to gather feedback and refine the concepts.
Later the next week, I dedicated 3 hours to transforming the selected logo ideas into vector-based files, as well as creating the supporting iconography. This involved learning new techniques, such as using the drawing tool to create easy triangles in Illustrator, to improve the efficiency and quality of my work.
Experiences and Takeaways
Through this project, I gained valuable experience in the logo design and branding process. I learned the importance of balancing creativity with practical considerations, such as scalability and versatility. Working within the constraints of a limited time frame also taught me to prioritize and make informed design decisions.
One of the key takeaways was the importance of seeking feedback and collaborating with others. My mentor’s critiques were instrumental in helping me improve my designs and overcome technical challenges. There were many issues that spanned days simply due to my own inexperience.
Insights and Lessons Learned
The most significant insight I gained from this project was the importance of flexibility and adaptability in graphic design. Creating logos and icons that can be easily integrated into various contexts requires a different mindset and approach compared to designing for a specific application.
Additionally, I learned the value of exploring new tools and techniques, even if they are outside of my comfort zone. Discovering the triangle drawing tool in Illustrator, for example, significantly streamlined my workflow and led to better results.
This project has been a valuable learning experience, and I am excited to apply the lessons learned to future graphic design endeavors.