Save the Date C&C

[saintsvol]

When I started my job at a local non-profit agency, they have really asked me to stretch my one semester of graphic design I took to the limit. Since I haven't had the opportunity to take further classes, I am the "dreaded" self-taught. So after doing this for about a year I thought I would get brave an upload a file for critique.

This has already gone to press, for the most part. Just wanted some insight into my work. You don't get much around here when you are the designer, copywriter, creative director, and public relations all wrapped into one person.

Ah, the life of non-profit. :)

Thanks in advance for your opinions, critiques, and criticisms.

[EC]

Welcome to the forum!

Overall, nice job. :) I like how the text "folds" into the curtains. Maybe a little hard to read, but it might translate differently in print.

My main concern would be the use of the Oscar statuette because it's a registered trademark. (I'm betting, based on the name of the event, that this might not have been your decision?)

[saintsvol]

Thanks. In print the "folding" is a bit hard to read, but this isn't something that is going to be viewed far away, so I was going to leave it. . .I wasn't sure about the oscar statue either. I think that we are going to use that faux looking oscar statue (the one that holds a star above his head) at the awards show, do you think going out and getting one of those and photographing it would be safer? (I couldn't find on on istock.)

[EC]

I think the design works independently of the statue, the curtains "imply" the movie theme. I am not sure I know what you mean by the faux statue? I'm a chicken, so if you *can* play it safe, I'd say go for it. ;)

[Tyger]

I agree with EC i like the overall design. If you can get away with using the Oscar Silhouette i'd leave it, unless you want to replace it with something else. The only thing that bugs me is the quote "every communtiy has heroes to award", it just seems a little out of place.

Otherwise, nice concept, nicely done.

[PersonasBinar]

Is there an actual "award" handed out? How about an outline of that in the piece?

[saintsvol]

Thanks for your insights. We do award something, but it has been a little different every year. I am trying to get some sort of consistancy to the event as I will probably soon become event planner, as well.

The line at the bottom was supposed to reflect all those one-line tags you see on coming attractions posters. Should it have been deleted for a stronger piece?

[Tyger]

i was thinking more in line with the composition of the text not the line itself. I know you are trying to stay away from everything being centered, it's just my opinion but it kinda throws the poster off. try a few different poistions for it. Could be just me though:)

[saintsvol]

Gotcha. Thanks for clarifying, and for the thoughts. Very helpful.

[saintsvol]

Here it is, sans statue, with the middle text brighter and a centered tag line. . .not sold on the centered tag yet, but I think you might be right in terms of ease of looking at for the eye.

I deleted the statue, only because I don't think we are going to give a statue again this year, so best not to include right now until I know of sure what the plan is.

Does the overall revision make the piece somewhat stronger.

BTW, EC, my husband and I love, love, LOVE the Office! Great avatar!

[EC]

I likee. :)

[Tyger]

me too!:)

[The Grinch]

I miss the silhouette. It lost the element of being classy. You can replace it with any other element not necessarily the oscar's award trophy. The contrast of black silhouette on the curtain was nicely done