Work in Progress*

I am intrigued by modern day Architecture, especially when it comes to complex physical structures such as bridges. Being a Graphic Designer I have come to appreciate not only the anatomy of these completed constructions but the planning, design and the organisation required; which is echoed throughout creativity.

Carlisle Train Station, Cumbria.

Bridge on Quayside, Newcastle.

More images from this set can be found here. (more uploads to come)

I’ve now completed my two weeks of work placement.

Being given the opportunity to work as part of the creative team at CN Group Studio has encouraged my desire to work within a design studio. Across the board, there is a constant buzz.

The Creative Team Leader, Alison Topham, set me a timetable for the fortnight - which reflected greatly on first impression, appreciable organisational qualities. The timetable allocated times with each department covering; Recruitment, Motors Team, Marketing and Promotions, Classified Production, Planning Team, ROP Production and Pinpoint Leaflets. On an earlier visit I was even shown the printing press and the CMYK process colour plates. The amount of machinery is astonishing.

I was grateful for working on live briefs, admittedly I’ve never worked on advertisements, never mind so intensely. The projects set included; House Advertisements, Outside Briefs and Static Web Advertisements. I even had the opportunity to update an existing campaign for Pinpoint Leaflets, original concept and design by Stephen Graham, I applied the newly designed logo and typesetting for stationary and campaign work. (work will be uploaded to showcase – available to download on 17th March)

Whilst doing the live briefs I received positive feedback from the clients, which I did not come to expect. I understand more than ever that you cater for the client, it’s the clients needs that need fulfilled. Even if you consider the design to be poor, you must design as stipulated or you could lose that revenue and possibility of regular revenue from that client, not to mention the time that is lost. To be trusted by the client will allow you more creative freedom, relationship building is the main attribute to clear communication.

Cumbria Newspapers is a company whose basis relies on outstanding communication over a vast number of departments, and very tight schedules whereby deadlines must be met. I fully appreciate how much work goes into the newspaper process and business.

For all departments, the workload is immense, but always succeed in reaching deadlines with quality, which is a great credit to the company.

I would just like to personally thank all the Creative Team at CN Group Studio, Louise, Ian, Andrew, Joan, Sheril, Stephen, Mike, Nils, Bill and of course the lovely Alison for her time, guidance and patients. And to all the others I came into contact with during my time at CN thank you.