Clients are always looking for fresh talent.
As an artist, you simply want to be able to convey your style but also appeal to potential employers.
If you happen to be a recently converted Graphic Artist or simply starting your career on the field, here are a few project ideas to get you started on building a stunning and attention-grabbing portfolio:
LOGOS
This is the easiest way to start your portfolio.
Create a logo for your company or a friends business.
Talk about the main concept and try to come-up with a very simple yet clever message to rely with the image. Sketching the design and then replicating the drawing on Illustrator, that way you can teach yourself how to use both methods.
Use non-traditional images that would still convey the same message, like an OK hand gesture for an environmental company.
T-SHIT DESIGN
Design your own t-shirt.
This is a great idea if you're an artist with both illustration capabilities or simply like how fashion and function interact with each other. It can be a nice digital octopus drawing or a modern architectural rendering, as long as you practice your layout capabilities, you're set.
Take this free template to use as a guide for your t-shirt design.
If you happen to love your creation, then go ahead and submit it into Threadless. Who knows, you might already be working towards making some dough.
PRODUCT AND PACKAGE DESIGN
There's a world of specialties for Graphic Designers and product and package design are very specific niches with high demand.
Product Designers usually go for a degree in Industrial Design, which is really more focused on sculpture and functionality.
Package Designers on the other hand, still focus most of their work on layout with also some degree of functionality and a very strong Marketing background. For this, many companies look for strong portfolios with great product and package designs. Start with something simple: get an extra chinese food carry-out box and cerate a cool design.
Then try to replicate it later on with your own cardboard cutout.
Have a great idea for a product? Then try sketching it and then create a digital version of it with
Google Sketchup.
ILLUSTRATION
Love sketching characters or have more of a fluid/artistic side?
Then perhaps you want try creating a section of your portfolio dedicated to Illustrative work.
Start by creating your own versions of popular children's stories like Snow White (which happens to be super popular right now, by the way) or a made-up character for a children's book.
Many clients are also looking for artist that know how to draw cartoonish game characters, so go into your favorite website or check out the game store to draw some inspiration.
Hope this article has been helpful. If you're wanting to go back to school to get your degree in Graphic Design, feel free to visit this
easy scholarships to apply for article. It's full of great resources and information to help you get started.
