Yearbook Meeting

Having decided on a yearbook, Ian, Charlotte and myself met up for a short meeting to discuss the potential of the brief and throw around some initial ideas, concerns and generally have a good old chin wag about the project. We are all agreed that the BA (Hons) Surface Pattern & Textile Design yearbook is the one we are after. 
During our discussion we talked about the fact that we need to make the most of the patterns when laying out the book. There is no point in using tiny thumbnails to show pattern - the emphasis should be firmly on showcasing the work of the graduates. This could be done through photography or using original files. 
We talked about the possibility of using files for the person specific pages and dressing up photographic shots using a number of peoples work and placing it in a gallery section within the yearbook. Macro shots could also be important to really show the craft of the work.   
In addition to the personal pages and possible gallery section, we discussed including some pages at the back of the book which could be perforated and torn apart - each section with an individuals print. This would allow people to effectively dismantle the rear pages so the work can be easily compared and contrasted with themselves or other fabrics (important when looking at pattern). These perforated sections could also work as business cards for the graduates, with their contact information on the reverse. 
Paper stock is going to be very important. We are all adamant that it should be uncoated and tactile so as to reflect the nature of fabric. The 2009 Surface Pattern yearbook (below) has glossy pages and not only feels cheap but the stock itself doesn't seem to tie in with the nature of the course it is aiming to promote. 
We discussed that the branding for the yearbook will need to work across promotional material, such as invites, posters etc. Our aim is to create an identity that doesn't distract from the work contained in the book / on show. Something neutral but with a subtle distinctiveness. Perhaps the use of interesting typographic elements? Who knows at this early stage.


In the meeting we decided to go and gather some intelligence, so we went to the Surface Pattern studios to ask nicely for copies their old yearbooks (see subsequent posts for their analysis).


This is a really exciting opportunity and I can't wait to get started. Here's hoping we get it!


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On another note, we found out today that we will have to pitch for the Graphic Design yearbook in preparation for pitching to other courses. I think Fred wants us to prove that we are responsible capable. Not that that's a problem. The BAGD yearbook could be quite fun and interesting to produce. Not sure I would like our class of discerning graphic designers looking over my shoulder though every step of the way :) Then again, that's part of the challenge with the BAGD yearbook. It needs to represent our course and its diversity as a whole package. Ian, Charlotte and I have organised a meeting on Wednesday morning to discuss the BAGD pitch. Exciting times!