Communication Arts is arguably the top journal for design in the world. Recently two BYU students, Erin Ladd and Amanda Lund, had their designs featured in the publication. Expanding over a wide range of mediums and areas of design, the journal holds regular competitions to discover rising designers and new talent.
“To have my work recognized in this way was more than I could have ever imagined,” said Lund. “[Finding out I won the competition,] I felt an immense sense of pride in my work. I have always struggled to feel confident in the work I produce, and it is a constant battle to move past those insecurities.” Having work professionally recognized is a critical milestone for a young designer, especially as an undergraduate.
According to Erin Ladd, a quality education at BYU gave her the skills needed to compete against art schools, while still providing a diverse and broad experience. “I have a minor in French, and without those classes I wouldn't have become interested in Molière, the author of these books [I designed],” she says. “Because of French History class, I was able to incorporate pieces of art and design from his time period, like the typeface I used which was originally designed for Louis XIV. It's always fun for me to combine things I've studied in different classes into my work.”
For both students, winning this competition was a stepping stone from designing and loving art to being recognized and integrated into the professional world. Taking part of such a well-regarded design publication, they represent both the effort and passion that went into their individual designs as well as BYU.
“Graphic design can feel like an extremely competitive field,” says Ladd. “On one hand, I think one award under my belt will give me more confidence in my future work. On the other hand, I hope that going forward I'll always remember that even work that goes unseen can be important and worthwhile, even if it never sees the light of day much less wins an award.”
“Communication Arts is a professional journal for designers, art directors, design firms, corporate design departments, agencies, illustrators, photographers and everyone involved in visual communications. Through its editorials, feature articles and the annual competitions it sponsors, CA provides new ideas and information, while promoting the highest professional standards for the field. Now in its 62nd year, CA continues to showcase the current best—whether it’s from industry veterans or tomorrow’s stars—in design, advertising, photography, illustration, interactive and typography.” Erin Ladd’s winning design was a series of covers for books written by French playwright Molière. Amanda Lund’s design was magazine covers and layouts for Objekt Magazine.
