We might be living in a digital world, but I’ll admit I’m more of a physical media girl.
Print pieces, banners, murals, and even garbage cans can be canvasses for original branding. And when your brand is literally occupying space in a physical location, you become hard to ignore and easier to remember.
See how to rethink what’s possible with physical media through some of my favorite projects.
Poppin’ Off by Poppin’ Up
This is arguably my favorite project. We worked with a paper engineer, illustrator, printer, and book binder to create a pop-up coffee table book for the University of Iowa Center for Advancement. Sent as a thank you to major donors to the UI Stead Family Children’s Hospital, this became a keepsake.
A Theme Becomes Tangible
When the Iowa Women’s Foundation needed a fundraising piece that conveyed the importance of their work, we brought a theme to life through layout. Titled “Currents of Change,” the barrel-roll piece visualized the barriers women face and the ways IWF positions itself to help.
Making Garbage Look Good
Every object is a branding opportunity. We proved it when we developed the concept, copy, and design for Downtown Cedar Rapids’ garbage and recycling containers. Known as “Big Bellies,” these receptacles went from drab to dynamic.
Authentic Imperfection: My Kind of AI
A final thought: AI is everywhere. People and businesses are using generative tools to produce work. I’m not here to scold. When budgets are tight and something needs to be made, I understand why AI is an alluring option. But consider a couple things:
Sidestep the Slop: When it comes to high-stakes elements like your logo and primary branding, try to use a local graphic designer. For day-to-day posts, consider AI tools but customize by including your logo and aspects of your core brand. Also, prioritize real photography and even handwritten font to avoid the pitfalls of looking like everyone else.
Authentic Imperfection: Not every piece you produce needs to be perfect and polished. People are now yearning for the opposite: the hint of imperfection that lets them know something is real.
