KU CD grad opens New Design Studio

Just yesterday, CD Dept. chairperson Todd McFeely told me he sensed the job market for designers was turning the corner. He’s been hearing more and more good news from recent grads who have found work in the design field.

Even more encouraging is that grads are starting new businesses from scratch. Victor Beazzo wrote yesterday to announce the birth of Solid Design Group. That sounds stable. Solid’s website has launched at  soliddesigngroup.net. Victor, since graduating from K.U.in 2008, gained experience working at two well-known Pennsylvania agencies and is now putting out his own digital shingle. He says he still has a lot of work to do. We wish him luck.

Part of creating a buzz about your work is having one’s own blog. Solid’s blog has been launched with a worthwhile post entitled “10 Easy Secrets to Quickly Become a Great Designer.”

Below is a quote from Solid’s inaugural blog entry, a bit of advice that illustrators might take to heart. Visit the site to read more.

“If you can’t find paying work, do pro bono stuff to learn. Your cousin’s wedding invitation, a local band’s album artwork, or a website for a local non-profit, are all great examples. Craigslist is a great place to start when searching for low pay or charity work for experience. You’re getting your name out there and building a reputation for yourself, but the most important thing is that you’re actually learning and improving! The more you do, the faster you’ll get better!”