Buff Berries are a series of gummy candies, made with real fruit juice. The idea behind the product is to stimulate energy so that the consumer would be motivated to exercise and work out.

The goal for the project was to create labels for a product line. We were required to use food items, to ensure we use nutrition facts, ingredients, and other official information usually displayed on packaging. Along with this, we wanted to take neutral foods and increase the price you’d pay for it with the packaging. I did this by marketing my candies and health and medical gummies, which are a dynamic and new product to the market.

I decided to use candy for my contents. To make the candy unique I went with an athletic and working out theme. This theme is represented though the candy, which is shaped similar to bulging muscles, and the packaging itself, which shaped like a dumbbell. This product would ideally be sold in gyms or athletic departments of stores. The long term goal for this product is to have be recognized as a working out item.

The targets for this product are adult males ranging from 20-40. These adults may or may not have kids. The target is energetic, and is conscious when it comes to exercising and staying healthy.

The Bags
For the bags I decided to have a plain white paper bag, to contrast the bright and bold colors, which are dominant on the packaging. A large label would be placed on the front face of the bag, sporting the colors of the flavor purchased (raspberry, blackberry, wildberry). The logo would serve as the main graphic on the label. This paper bags goal is to carry the product safely to the consumers home.

The Packages
The package shape was chosen for it’s similar appearance to a traditional dumbbell. The center of the tube is narrower than the rest of the tube, giving the package a grip, and a perfect placement for the label. The package itself is food safe, and is sustainable. The plastic is 100% recyclable, and can even be re-used. The packages main feature (which is also explained on the label) is that when the candy is consumed, the tube can be filled with water, sand, rocks, or other weighted material, leaving the package to act a customizable weight. The package comes in small, medium and large sizes. The small package contains 30 gummies. The medium/standard size carries 70, and the large carries 200. The small and medium packages act as a one handed dumbbell, and the large acts as a two handed.

The Label
The label is placed on the grip/thinner center of the container. It wraps around the surface of the container twice, and has perforated/pop out flaps (the arms of the main graphic). When the arms/flaps are open, they reveal the second layer of the label underneath, along with a secret message describing the candy. This technique would be continued if the brand planned on creating any special offers or contests. Each side of the label displays important information about the candy. The from acting as the P.D.P., the two front sides describing the candy, the second left side listing ingredients, the second right side displaying how the package is sustainable and reusable (also displaying the bar code), and the back face displaying the nutrition facts. The top of the container also sports a circular shaped label, which is carried through the brands other forms of packaging.

Extended Line/Carrier
Like the bags, this packaging is meant to carry the package. This item differs though, because unlike the flimsy paper bag, which supports the candy filled container, this bag is designed to withstand more wear and tear. The carrier bag is made with a water and sweat resistant material, which comfortably holds one package filled with water or a heavier substance. Ideally, this carrier would be used when the consumer is jogging or working out and needs to carry the package at close range. It’s for carrying on the go, and within it’s themed environment.

I very much enjoyed creating this line of products. I have never researched or created work based on athletics or heath related material. This assignment took me out of my persona bubble.

Note:
Art Direction: Adam Spivak
Photography: Adam Spivak
Design: Adam Spivak
Instructor: Vivian Ducas

© 2012 All images and creative content are the sole property of Adam Spivak. 

Through becoming a designer, and personally discovering who I am, I have changed alot. Especially within this past year. Not only have I changed physically, but mentally and emotionally as well, to the point where it even shows in my work. Growing up involves learning and changing, and it is something we continuously do. Someone who has influenced and somewhat mentored me in growing to become a better person is my friend Adrian.

When it comes to life, I have often let it pass me by, or glazed over situation with a sarcastic or negative remark. Something that rooted to me not having any confidence or esteem in myself or others. Last year, with the added stress of school I found myself in a bad situation. It was hard to process all the information I was gathering from school, life, and work. I felt like giving up on myself and my ambition to becoming a designer. My old friend Adrian really stepped up to give me advice.

Adrian is currently a graduating student at Humber college studying Kinesiology, Health and Fitness. He is a year older then me, and we first became friends in high school. He personally knows alot about caring for others and processing how people act and think. This allows him to give really accurate advice.

One time last year, we went out for coffee, and we spent a majority of the time having what he calls “a life-chat”. We discussed how I often over think situations and put myself down. Something I didn’t know about my friend was that when he was younger, he was in the same situation. He had the same very negative self image. This really made me relate to Adrian and look at him in a different way. I never would have thought someone as well-adjusted or positive as Adrian ever had such issues with esteem. He then went on to discuss how he too hated that fact that he acted and thought such things, and he devoted himself to change for the better.

I was given very good advice on positivity. Because I often over think things, I was told to really take things on one at a time. Allowing me to process them without being distracted by other work or information. And though sarcasm can be used as a humorous, fun tactic, I really had to stop directing alot of the jokes at myself. All of this would put me on a path to becoming happier with myself. It wasn’t a matter of “I am not this. I can never do this. I haven’t done this!” It was a matter of “I AM this. I CAN do this with practice. And I HAVE been able to do this!” I really was forced to look at what I did have to offer, and be proud of those facts. I was also given challenges targeted to bettering my esteem which would prove to be successful with practice. With this knowledge I find myself to produce better work, and am alot better at processing all the things I constantly analyze.

Because of Adrian’s mentoring, I have been put on a path to becoming a happier person with actual motivation in my life. I don’t think I have reached my goals, but much like my mentor said, “Happiness is a path, not a place. It’s a continuous path you follow which always changes.” Now that I realize this and am on that path, I feel alot lighter and am proud of what I can do. There I times I slip and become frustrated, as most people do, but I have been able to now accept this fact, as it means I am only human. I am not really sure if my mentor is aware I even consider him so, but I am thankful for what he has done, and being a good peer. Adrian is my only close male friend, so that also means alot to me.

Though school is busy, we do keep in touch, and Adrian constantly is willing to give support and advice to whomever needs it. From his mentoring and support, I have grown to become a better thinker, and a better human being. Though I still love to throw in my sarcastic comments here and there in jest, I look at life more positively and am now setting new goal in my life I am eager to achieve.

His facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Pounced

Thanks for being a giant supportive jungle cat!

Command X was an interesting competition which gathered design students who would compete against each other in re-designing and conceptualizing elements in design. The competition captured my attention in good and bad ways. I liked viewing the program for the drama, and seeing the solutions the seven students came up with. Not to mention that an actual competition created in this “elimination style” was created for young designers. I loved the over-all concept of the program and the challenges, but the student designers/contestants, through they had something to offer, were very rough and nervous when it came to presenting their work. Sometimes the judges were harsh and encouraging which was also another factor that bothered me. All in all watching Command X showed me alot about what it is like to present ones work. Listed below are some of the best and worst elements I found within some of the contestants presentations of their designs and work.

Five Worst Presentation Errors used by the contestants were:
1. Unrehearsed
Spencer didn’t review his process work in his very first presentation, and it was obvious to the audience and judges. He stumbled through his words and didn’t have a clear beginning or ending to what he was attempting to say. When you don’t review, you seem to not care about your work. Since you don’t care, why should I? This also shows a lack of professionalism and seriousness.

2. Apologetic
During the critique, whenever a misunderstanding or unclear element was pointed out, the designers seemed to become very insecure and passive, backing down from the judges. There’s always a reason for your design choices. Either explain why you did it, or accept the criticism for what it is, but never be sorry.

3. Hand gestures
A lot of the designers were very nervous, which is only natural, but they made this very aware when they could not decided how to position or use their hands. Wendy especially had this issue. Her hands were always moving all over the place and it was very distracting while she was presenting her design.

4. Reading from your hands
Again, it is very understandable to be nervous when presenting, but it is very unprofessional to has written notes all over your hands and body. Some of the presenters had written key word or notes on themselves to help them remember what to say while explaining their work. his can be an acceptable solution, but the contestants who did choose to write on their hands poorly hid it. They rather wave their hands too much, revealing the notes, or they read straight off their hand instead of engaging with their audience.

5. “Quiet Talker”
Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David created an episode for the sitcom Seinfeld to show the problems produced when someone speaks too quietly. When standing in front of an audience it’s important to project your voice so what you have to say is heard and you appear less nervous. A strong voice sounds confident and draws in attention. When Sarah Sawtell would present, I often had to figured out what she was saying based on the responses of others around her.

Five Best Presentation Techniques used by the contestants were:
1. Justify design choices
The designers were able to answer the judges questions quickly and thoughtfully, and when questioned on factors such as their choices, the designers were able to justify and explain their choices. This was very professional.

2. Well-Researched
When a student was able to articulate how they had gone through researching and developing their ideas, the judges could connect to their work better. This understanding made the pieces come to life, such as the American Idol logo revision presented by Wendy Hu. I originally felt her logo was weak, but once she was described her idea, I felt it was one of the best interpretations presented for that challenge.

3. Talk about your thought Process
Talk about your work past merely the assignment, such as other applications. Show that you have thoroughly thought it through and have come up with full “ideas” not just a design.

4. Make conversation
When the pieces of design were being critiqued, the designers were able to listen to what the judges were saying. They were also showed professionalism because they took a minute for the critique to set in, and then comment or explain factors to the judges, showing understanding and personality.

5. Personality
Personality can come from a variety of things. The way one dresses or the way one speaks and presented themselves. These are just some aspects of how personality can shine through. Susan and Wendy stood out with their unique fashion sense. These elements, tied with the thoughtful explanation and execution of their designs made them memorable contestants.

1. Be your own boss. And no one Else’s.
Take control of your actions. Don’t be someone Else’s puppet. If you don’t stand for something, you’ll fall for anything, but remember that no one is your puppet either.

2. Let yourself be passionate.
Don’t let other people slow you down if you really believe in something. Do it for yourself and go as far as you want. If you have faith in your work, flaunt it.

3. Be open-minded.
Don’t always argue your point valid. Listen to what others have to say. Regardless of what you think about it, you will learn something that will benefit you no what matter what side you’re on.

4. Sketch.
You don’t have to be an amazing artist to doodle things quickly on paper. Get your ideas out before finalizing.

5. An’ it harm none, do what ye will.
Wiccan’s Rede. Essentially, you can do whatever you want as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone else. Those 18th century witches might have had a point….

6. You’re only young once. Make that “once” last forever.
Once you grow up, that’s it. Your a full fledged adult. Remember how boring adults seemed when you were a kid? That hasn’t really changed has it? Fly off to Neverland my friends!

7. Don’t let people take advantage of you.
Don’t do free work. Don’t love someone who doesn’t love you back. Don’t take anyone’s abuse. Period.

6. Pain is an unavoidable part of life. Suffering is completely optional.
It sucks being the guy that the bad things are happening to. But you know what sucks more? Being the guy that mopes about all the bad things that happen to him. Don’t be that guy. Chin up, move on

7. Tomorrow doesn’t exist, so don’t count on it being there.
If you get the chance to experience something, do it. Don’t say that you’ll get around to it one of these days, cause you never will. Nike. Just Do It. Advertising doesn’t always lie.

8. Everything in moderation. Especially moderation.
Don’t eat a whole chocolate cake everyday. But every once in a while, it becomes necessary to eat that entire Black Forest Supreme. The one with lots of maraschino cherries and sprinkles. Yum.

9. Try again. Fail again. Fail better.
Ya, you’re going to mess up. Just make sure when you do, it is not in the same way over and over. Crash and burn in new and unique ways.

10. Take care of yourself.
You only have the one body, so make sure you take care of it.

Some of the most Iconic people to me have created their own path for life. Until recently I’ve just followed the path to becoming a simple designer. Something already recognized and to be honest, might leave me not fulfilling my full potential. I have so many things I am interested and devoted to, and I want to do them all! Being a generalist ISN’T a bad thing! From basically anyone I have ever been inspired by, they have said that you have to do what you love. When something works and you like it, go with it! It will get you farther, and in the end, you will be recognized because you wont be following a path already taken by so many other people. You will be creating your own path, your own career.

I am currently going to school for Graphic Design, but looking at the things that have influenced me throughout life, deep down I have wanted to try them all and be recognized as not only a designer, but also an artist or writer! Realizing this, I am a little scared that perhaps I am wasting my time, continuing with my current college course. But then again, following through and learning about one of these major factors which drives me shows that I am at least doing something to take steps towards my goals, rather then sitting back remaining confused about which path I should take to create my own.

I like Designing: Graphic, Layouts, Typography. Pretty much a general spectrum while still being creative and professional.

I like Art: Going back within my roots of sketching, illustration, painting and personal expression.

I like Writing: I love to read and of late I’m especially into personal help and conveying through metaphors and stories.

These are my specialties. These are what I like and love. These are what I want to do.

I find that Sagmeister (the designer) is a very analytic and thoughtful person, and because of this I see that I relate to him in a lot of personal and mental ways. His process when it comes to creating is something I also can relate to and understand. Much like Sagmeister, I am also a fan of organization. Working in a field such as design, there are alot of different styles, messages and goals to keep track of, so while being creative is important, so is organization, this is where making lists comes in handy, and Sagmeister takes full advantage of this. I often find myself making mental lists, and am transitioning over into making physical written ones.

While analyzing my personal design process, I find that making lists helps to not only organize my mind and thoughts, but also clears my head. Design is something that has to be simple and functional, so having a clear head helps me to focus on the purpose of my work better. My process is still something that is evolving and growing, but as I work now…
My process goes something like this;

1. I generally gain all the information and background I will need for starting my work. I need to know that I am trying to communicate, and what materials and boundaries I should follow.
2. To do list: As there are many projects going on all at once, I generally try to make lists to organize and state all of my work, along with any ideas I have for each design.
3. I pace and time manage myself, setting aside times for me to work on my design. I often struggle with rather, putting of a design, waiting for inspiration to hit me, or I try and do all my work quickly in one sitting which ultimately tires me and makes my work look rushed. Dedicating times to work helps me pace my work.
4. I will begin a project by creating rough sketches or thumbnails. This way I will be able to give a visual for all of my ideas, which also helps me to determine how to layout my work.
5. I tend to look deeper into what I plan on designing. I will do research by looking up my message, or speaking with my peers or client. This gives me more information and ideas to keep in mind.
6. I try to go digital as early as I can, this step takes the most effort and time as it is the almost legitimate incarnation of my original idea for a design. If I feel passionate enough about an idea, I will sometimes ignore making thumbnails and research, and move straight to digitalis.
7. I tend to be a perfectionist, so after I get my digital design to a place where I am happy with it, I will show it off for critique. I will get guidance from professors/clients or peers, and after gaining my new information its back to the drawing board to touch up any weak areas.
8. After re-creating my design, meeting all of the noted needs, I will finalize my idea and complete the design. This usually involves sending out files, uploading, or printing. This is the most fulfilling step as it marks the completion of a successful design.
9. After the design is completed and sent out, I rest. It is VERY important to recharge my creative mind. I find that when I over work my designs are less effective and appear rushed. I will usually let loose and play a violent video game, listen to some of my melodious music, or catch up on sleep. This will act as a miniature play-time of freedom before I dedicate myself to my next project.