Jacob Monderen

Being in front of a video camera isn’t the most comfortable thing for me, but here it is. My attempt at answering the question of what my cosmic attractors are. I’m embedding a link to a YouTube upload.

I used to rush to school every morning, barely noticing the natural beauty around me. Not breathing mindfully. I use to do that all the time, prior to school. But now, I’m too focused on getting to class on time, or worrying about deadlines and grades. But lately, I’ve been reminding myself to slow down and appreciate the moments when nature sparks my imagination. To reimmerse myself in my natural state of being, once again. These moments are not only enjoyable, but also valuable for my creative process.

As a design student, I’m always looking for inspiration for my projects. Nature is a great source of ideas, colors, textures, shapes and patterns. Whenever I see something that catches my eye, I take a picture of it or sketch it in my notebook. For example, I’ve used colors from plants and flowers to build out my color palette for school projects. I’ve also experimented with textures and shadows that I’ve observed on my walk.

I’ve always loved nature and have always seen and appreciated these unique details, but school has taught me to seize these moments, to harness them, to inform my creations. By paying attention to nature in this way, I feel more connected to myself and to the world. I also feel more confident and creative in my work. Nature is not only a source of inspiration, but also a source of joy and wonder. That’s why I’m grateful for every moment that nature sparks my imagination.

As part of the campaign launch for the Petcube Bites 2, a revolutionary pet camera and treat dispenser, I have created a mood board to capture the essence and visual direction of the campaign. The Petcube Bites 2 is a sleek and modern device that allows pet owners to interact with their furry companions remotely. It’s not just a product, but a bridge between humans and pets, enhancing the bond and bringing joy to both sides. Let’s dive into the choices of colors, textures, and tone that I have incorporated in this mood board.

Color Palette:
For this campaign, I have chosen a vibrant and energetic color palette. The primary colors include shades of teal and purple, symbolizing playfulness, excitement, and innovation. These colors evoke a sense of happiness and showcase the modern and dynamic nature of the product. The secondary colors, such as soft pastel pinks and blues, provide a touch of warmth and comfort, highlighting the nurturing aspect of the Petcube Bites 2.

Textures:
To enhance the tactile experience and add depth to the visuals, I have included a variety of textures in the mood board. A combination of sleek metallic finishes represents the modernity and high-quality craftsmanship of the Petcube Bites 2. Soft, fluffy textures, like faux fur and plush blankets, symbolize comfort and coziness, reminding pet owners of the joyous moments they share with their pets.

Tone:
The overall tone of the mood board is upbeat, lively, and heartwarming. I have chosen images that capture pets and their owners in moments of pure delight, showcasing the bond and happiness they experience together. The tone aims to resonate with pet owners who want to provide the best care and attention to their beloved companions even when they are away.

As we enter the final stretch of our first year of design school, having these kinds of discussions seem more and more critical. As someone who has worked in most of the types of working environments we went over during the guest speaker session, I feel like I have a general idea of what kind of working setup might work best for my personality and goals. Having not worked as a graphic designer in the field, however, presents perhaps a few wrinkles in knowing exactly what type of environment I might actually best flourish in. Considering this lack of experience, my natural gut tells me I might like best to work in a situation that is perhaps a cross or hybrid between working freelance and obtaining an agent that can work on my behalf in finding and sourcing gig work.

Below is a rundown of the nature of each type of work situation, as well as a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of each.

Freelance

Freelance work involves working independently on a project-by-project basis. As a freelance graphic designer, you have the flexibility to choose your clients and projects.

Advantages:

• Flexibility: You have control over your schedule and can work on projects that interest you.
• Independence: You are your own boss and can make decisions about your business.
• Variety: Freelancing allows you to work on a diverse range of projects and gain experience in different industries.

Disadvantages:

• Uncertain income: Freelance work can be inconsistent, with fluctuating income levels.
• Responsibility: As a freelancer, you are responsible for finding clients, managing projects, and handling administrative tasks.
• Workload: Balancing multiple projects and clients simultaneously can be challenging.

Part-time

Part-time work involves working for fewer hours compared to a standard full-time position. It offers flexibility while still having some stability.

Advantages:

• Flexibility: Part-time work allows you to have a better work-life balance and pursue other interests.
• Reduced commitment: You have the opportunity to gain work experience without the full-time commitment.
• Learning opportunities: Part-time positions can provide valuable learning experiences and exposure to the industry.

Disadvantages:

• Limited benefits: Part-time positions may not offer the same benefits as full-time roles, such as healthcare or retirement plans.
• Reduced income: Part-time positions often offer lower wages compared to full-time positions.
• Limited career growth: Advancement opportunities may be limited in part-time roles.

Contract/Agency

Contract or agency work involves working for a specific period or on a project basis for a company or agency. You work as a contractor or through an agency that handles client projects.

Advantages:

• Variety: Contract work exposes you to different clients and industries, allowing you to expand your portfolio.
• Networking: Working with agencies or multiple clients can help you build a strong professional network.
• Potential for higher income: Contract work may offer higher rates compared to permanent positions.

Disadvantages:

• Lack of stability: Contract work is often temporary, which means you may have gaps between projects.
• Limited benefits: Contractors may not receive the same benefits as full-time employees.
• Less control: As a contractor, you may have less say in the decision-making process compared to full-time employees.

Full-time

Full-time work involves being employed by a company on a permanent basis, typically working a standard 40-hour week.

Advantages:

• Stability: Full-time employment provides a consistent income and job security.
• Benefits: Full-time positions often come with benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans, and paid time off.
• Professional growth: Full-time positions often offer opportunities for career advancement and professional development.

Disadvantages:

• Less flexibility: Full-time work may have a fixed schedule and limited flexibility compared to freelance or part-time work.
• Limited creative freedom: Working within the constraints of a company’s design guidelines may restrict your creativity.
• Office politics: Full-time positions often come with office dynamics and politics that can affect job satisfaction.

Job postings

Below are three job postings for Contract or Agency work in the greater Seattle area.

https://bit.ly/42mXuHI

https://bit.ly/3notnkx

https://bit.ly/42oS6DR

With school taking up most of my time these days, I haven’t been able to play tennis much. In fact, it had been since Spring Break. I was really missing it this week (the weather certainly played a role). So after our Photoshop lecture this week, and decided to phone a friend and drag my exhausted self to the courts to hit a few balls.

I remember once reading a book called The Inner Game of Tennis. In it the author spoke of the zenful qualities of being dialed in, focusing on a single object (the ball!). Over the years, the game of tennis has evolved into more of a spiritual journey for me. A place I can disconnect. A place where I can allow myself, despite the aggresive physical exertions of the game, to actually unwind. Somehow it helps me come back to my art feeling freer, more refreshed, less obstructed.

Finding ways in life to find that special place is key, I think. Below are some images of the textures, shapes, and points of view that often make me think of a joyous day of playing tennis.

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I adore the desert! The warm sand, the vibrant colors, and the fresh air just put me in such a happy place! And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like busting a move to some funky tunes in the middle of a desert oasis, surrounded by beautiful art and free-spirited dancers. It’s pure magic, and it always brings a big ol’ grin to my face.

When I was given this blog assignment, I knew I had to come up with something that would perfectly capture the essence of both the team and the festival. And what better way to do that than by channeling the mythical Firebird, AKA the Phoenix? I decided to add some feathery flair to the sleeves and fiery flames to the shoulders to really bring that legend to life.

For the color scheme, I went with hues that would transport you straight to the desert: vibrant pinks, oranges, and purples. It’s a nod to the festival’s colorful nature, and it just feels so dang festive!

Oh, and that number 22 on the back? It’s actually a clipping mask that blends a cactus with a gorgeous shade of purple. It’s just another nod to the incredible desert landscape that inspired this design.

Overall, I’m super happy with how this jersey turned out. Sure, if I had more time, I could have tinkered with it even more. But hey, we’re all still learning! I used a bunch of selection techniques in Photoshop to make this design sing, and I hope it makes you smile as much as it does me. Check out the front and back below!

As a graphic designer, my passion lies in collaborating with clients who share a similar outlook on life. I dream of working with companies that prioritize the great outdoors, travel, and good food – brands like Patagonia, Outdoor Research, and travel/foodie magazines are right up my alley. Additionally, I’d love to explore opportunities within the world of tennis.

The reason I’m drawn to these kinds of projects is that they reflect my personal interests and values. As someone who loves nature, adventure, and staying active, I can relate to these brands and the people they serve. I also have a deep appreciation for good food and cultural experiences, which is why I’m particularly interested in working with travel and foodie magazines.

But it’s not just about personal interest – I believe that working with clients who align with my values will result in better design outcomes. When we share a common understanding and goal, we can collaborate more effectively and create work that truly resonates with our target audience.

As for where I want to go, I’d love to work remotely from a foreign country like Portugal. There’s something magical about immersing oneself in a new culture and exploring the world from a different perspective. I believe that being in a new environment would inspire me to think outside the box and infuse my work with fresh ideas.

Ultimately, if I could say anything, it would be this: I’m eager to partner with clients who share my passion for adventure, culture, and the great outdoors. I’m excited to create design solutions that not only look great but also reflect our shared values and vision. And I’m ready to explore new horizons, both professionally and personally.

I think it would be fun to create a video challenge where participants have to share something vulnerable about themselves. Below is my “pitch” for a game I’m calling the Share-a-secret Showdown. The idea is to create a safe space for people to open up and connect with each other. I think this concept would elicit an interesting response because vulnerability is often seen as a weakness or something to be ashamed of. By asking people to share their vulnerabilities in a controlled environment, we could challenge this perception and show that vulnerability can actually be a strength that brings people closer together.

The Pitch

Are you ready to spill the beans and share your deepest, darkest secrets? No need to worry, we’ve got just the game for you – Share-A-Secret Showdown!

Gather your friends, family, or random strangers from the street (just kidding, don’t do that) and get ready to play the most revealing game of your life. It’s like Truth or Dare, but without the dares – just pure, unadulterated truth.

The rules are simple: each player takes turns drawing cards with different categories such as “My Most Embarrassing Moment,” “My Secret Talent,” or “The Weirdest Thing I’ve Ever Eaten.” Then, within a certain time limit, you have to share a secret related to that category.

But here’s the catch – after you spill your guts, you get to choose someone else to do the same. It’s like a game of hot potato, but with secrets. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love a good game of hot potato?

To make things even more interesting, we’ve added some wild card categories to the mix, such as “Share Your Craziest Drunk Story” or “Reveal Your Celebrity Crush.” You never know what secrets will come out of these categories, but one thing’s for sure – it’ll be entertaining.

And don’t worry, we’ve got prizes for the most scandalous and hilarious secrets shared. It’s like the Oscars, but for being an open book.

So, are you ready to get vulnerable and reveal your innermost thoughts and desires? Come on, don’t be shy. Let’s play Share-A-Secret Showdown and see who can handle the heat (and the truth).

I’m not goint to lie. Attending the Taco Bell Metaverse Wedding was a so creepy. I always associate weddings with intimacy and touch, and that just isn’t something possible at this junture in time. Unless of course maybe you have access to a system that registers touch, but those gigs are very pricey.

I think what I found most disturbing about this event was that it did a poor job of emphasizing the beautiful family and cultural interconnectedness of traditionl Indian weddings. I’ve been to several of these wedding celebrations in my life, and everyone of them were steeped in religious meaning and was held at a temple. Something seemed disconnected to me.

Other issues I can see people encountering while using the metaverse are listed below:

1. Accessibility: While the metaverse offers an exciting new way to interact with others, it is still limited by the user’s access to technology. For instance, not everyone has a powerful enough device or internet connection to access the metaverse (case in point, me! I had difficulty getting my older Macbook to connect to the event). Additionally, those with disabilities may face barriers in accessing and using the metaverse.
2. Privacy and Security: In a virtual world where users can create their own avatars and interact with others, privacy and security are major concerns. Users may share personal information without realizing it, and there’s always a risk of hackers gaining access to personal data. Plus, with virtual assets like NFTs gaining value, there’s a risk of theft or fraud.
3. Social Issues: Just like in the real world, the metaverse is not immune to social issues such as bullying, harassment, and discrimination. Since users can remain anonymous or use fake identities, it can be challenging to enforce rules and regulations that ensure everyone feels safe and respected.
4. Content Moderation: With the metaverse being a vast and open platform, it can be tough to regulate and moderate the content that users create and share. There’s always a risk of inappropriate or offensive content being shared, and it can be a challenge to remove it quickly and effectively.
5. Ownership and Governance: As the metaverse grows and develops, questions of ownership and governance will arise. Who owns the virtual real estate, and how will it be regulated? How will disputes between users be resolved? These are all issues that will need to be addressed as the metaverse continues to evolve.

Having said that, companies are already using the metaverse for advertising and entertainment!

One way companies are using the metaverse is by hosting virtual events. Think product launches, concerts, and conferences that take place in a virtual space. It’s pretty cool because it allows people from all over the world to attend without actually having to physically be there.

Another way companies are using the metaverse is by creating branded experiences. Imagine being able to interact with a company’s products or services in a virtual space. For example, Coca-Cola made a virtual vending machine in a blockchain-based metaverse where users could buy virtual Coca-Cola.

Companies can also advertise within video games that exist in the metaverse. And since these games can have a massive audience, it’s an excellent opportunity for companies to get their message across. For instance, Roblox allows businesses to create in-game ads that are tailored to specific audiences.

Influencer marketing is another way companies are using the metaverse. They can team up with influencers who have a presence in the metaverse to promote their products or services. For instance, Nike partnered with a popular Roblox influencer to launch a virtual sneaker line within the platform.

Finally, companies can buy virtual real estate within the metaverse to create branded experiences or advertising opportunities. This way, they can create a unique and interactive experience for their customers. Burberry even purchased virtual real estate in the game Bazaar to host a fashion show.

In summary, the metaverse is a new and exciting way for companies to engage with customers, but with that comes other human issues that should be addressed head on, early and often. It may not be for me, but I can see how I can learn from dabbling with the technology at my own leisure. Who knows, maybe my fears will slowly subside. We shall see. Only time will tell.

As a design student, I’m constantly learning and growing, and I believe that part of that process is making mistakes. I know we all make mistakes, but it’s important to reflect on those experiences, learn from them, and improve upon our skills.

In my past life as a photographer, I made a mistake that taught me a valuable lesson. I was hired to take engagement photos for my ex-boyfriend and his fiance, and I didn’t hire an assistant to help with the shoot. It was a big mistake, as I quickly found out.

With a tight time constraint and multiple tasks to manage, I struggled to keep up. I had to adjust my lighting on my own, switch lenses quickly, and even tend to my subjects’ needs, all while trying to capture the perfect shots. The result was rushed and not quite right.

But I learned from this experience. I learned that planning and support are crucial to any successful shoot. I learned that having an assistant to help with tasks like adjusting lighting, changing lenses, and attending to my subjects’ needs is essential. I also learned the importance of clear communication and time management.

With these lessons in mind, I offered to reshoot the images, and this time I had the support I needed. The results were much better, and I was able to deliver high-quality work that met my clients’ expectations.

As a design student, I believe it’s important to learn from our mistakes and take those lessons with us as we move forward. Whether it’s a design project, a photo shoot, or any other creative endeavor, I always remember the value of planning, support, communication, and time management. I know these lessons will serve me well in my future work, and I am excited to create quality work that meets my clients’ needs.