Re:Ohio
Poise, polish, and passion.
Congratulations to the Re:Ohio winners!
Thursday, March 12th, 2009
CSCA’s first student competition attracted a huge
crowd – and great dialogue about branding and design.
The 10 student finalists of CSCA’s Re: Ohio design competition impressed us with their concepts and presentations at CSCA’s most recent event. Each student had five minutes to share their recommendations for an updated identity for the state of Ohio. The finalists’ work was based on historical research, competitive analysis, and their own interpretation of what makes the state special.
The result? A wide range of ideas, from modern and serious to playful and surprising. The “Birthplace of Heroes” tagline? Very compelling. A flag-shaped license plate? Why not? Sure, there was a little too much scarlet and gray, and we saw the shape of our state a few too many times. But overall, the entries showed a willingness to break away from the expected and give Ohio an identity (and license plate) that stands out.
Special congratulations to our runners up, Brian Greenwood and Leah Doritan, and to the winner of the night (and recipient of a $1,000 CSCA scholarship), Greg Beck. His humerous presentation and smart, contemporary design (and sketches to show his process) won over the audience and judges.
Speaking of judges, Keith Novicki, Xenia Palus, Jeremy Slagle, and Jenn Stevens struck just the right balance of praise and critical commentary during their real-time reactions to the work. A special thanks again for their effort and grace under pressure. Sure, Jeremy was a little tough, but we think each student walked away a little wiser.
A few great student quotes from the presentation:
“The word Ohio is inherently geometric.”
“For every demographic we have, we have a counter demographic.”
“Ohio…who are we?”
Another question: who knew there was an Automobile License Plate Collectors Association? One student discovered it, and used it to reveal what connoisseurs consider to be must-have design elements.
The event also included the second-annual CSCA Student Portfolio Review, which let working designers share feedback and discover emerging talent.
A very special thanks goes to CSCA Education Officer Jen Adrion for not just organizing both events, but also doing a nice job as the evening’s MC. Great job!
All in all, a night of surprises, creativity, and fun.
We had great media turnout, so watch the Dispatch for a story by Joe Blundo, and a mention on WCBE.
A few clips from the event
Special Thanks to:
Postcard Promotional Printed By:
PIP Printing & Document Services
Sam Krafty
7719 Graphics Way, Suite F
Lewis Center, OH 43035-8000
740-657-3199 (phone)
Postcard Paper Donated By:
RIS Paper
Terri-Price Deep
4311 Janitrol Rd, Columbus
614-851-0551