Cinderella on clouds is one of my favourite examples of a student’s blog. Chrissane’s blog is a complete reflection of herself. She has expressed herself through the use of colours in her background and text and has utilised the personalising options to her benefit.
Chrisanne is very proud of her blog and she is the first year student who has made the most posts on her blog. “It’s awesome to show other people your work and to show them more about yourself and your inspirations, it gives your jewellery a more personal feel”
The themes and colours she has chosen are reflected in the image that she chose for her post First jewellery crit. Thus showing how a blog can complement and enhancing the content.
“I think it’s something I will continue now since I know how it works and because I’m actually starting to like it and getting creative with it and it’s good for my own business (range of jewellery) one day.”
Thursday, September 30, 2010
White Wave by Genevieve Maurel
The first thing that struck me about White Wave was Genevieve’s mature use of colour; red, grey, white and blue. This instantly gives her blog the feeling of an experienced designer. I would assume that she has been exposed to many images and art works in her prior education and in her life.
Genevieve is confident in her use of text. She writes beautifully. Genevieve writes in the first person, making her blog personal and interesting to read.
Examples can be found in her post old vs. new (posted on Friday August 13th 2010), “i love this modern take on the 'cameo'”, “the reason i love it”, “when i think”.
Regarding her blog, Genevieve states that she “enjoyed starting it” but that she does “find it more therapeutic to write in the design diary.” She also states that although she thinks that blogging is a good tool, it “becomes too time consuming”. I feel that in a few more posts time, Genevieve will find that a blog is less time consuming than she originally thought and she will find means of expressing herself by scanning in and posting sketches and drawings.
Despite her doubts, Genevieve does feel that a blog is a useful tool for jewellery designers and design students as “it helps people share ideas and communicate between themselves”
Overall, her blog is a brilliant example of the successful use of colour, images and text to communicate with her reader.
Genevieve is confident in her use of text. She writes beautifully. Genevieve writes in the first person, making her blog personal and interesting to read.
Examples can be found in her post old vs. new (posted on Friday August 13th 2010), “i love this modern take on the 'cameo'”, “the reason i love it”, “when i think”.
Regarding her blog, Genevieve states that she “enjoyed starting it” but that she does “find it more therapeutic to write in the design diary.” She also states that although she thinks that blogging is a good tool, it “becomes too time consuming”. I feel that in a few more posts time, Genevieve will find that a blog is less time consuming than she originally thought and she will find means of expressing herself by scanning in and posting sketches and drawings.
Despite her doubts, Genevieve does feel that a blog is a useful tool for jewellery designers and design students as “it helps people share ideas and communicate between themselves”
Overall, her blog is a brilliant example of the successful use of colour, images and text to communicate with her reader.
Mowfunk by Miles Lawn
2.3 Student blog reviews
Miles’ blog, Mowfunk is the first blog that I chose to discuss. It is a simple and straight forward example. The only thing that Miles has personalised on his blog is the background colour of his blog, from white to black. Initially he used very little text and did not give his opinion on the designs that he chose to include, despite the fact that they were very interesting and inspired choices.
However in his most recent post (posted on Thursday 26th August 2010) he states “I like this fork bracelet, because of the organic and free feeling you receive from the stylized contour lines as fork fingers.”
Interestingly Miles whom I initially assumed did not enjoy blogging says that he “enjoyed starting it and that he finds it much easier than the visual diary”. He has also shown his blog to his family and friends. “I was quite boastful and ecstatic about my blog”.
When I asked Miles if he though that blogging was a useful tool for jewellery designers and design students he replied very positively. “Yes, it reveals each person’s style of jewellery in a different way. I could also receive newer or better ideas from seeing other student's blogs (of how they think, design and produce their style)”.
I feel that Miles has benefitted greatly from blogging. Updating his blog weekly has helped him with his design work. The more he posts, the better his self expression has and will continue to become. In time he will be able to look back at his blog and see how his communication and observation skills have improved.
Miles’ blog, Mowfunk is the first blog that I chose to discuss. It is a simple and straight forward example. The only thing that Miles has personalised on his blog is the background colour of his blog, from white to black. Initially he used very little text and did not give his opinion on the designs that he chose to include, despite the fact that they were very interesting and inspired choices.
However in his most recent post (posted on Thursday 26th August 2010) he states “I like this fork bracelet, because of the organic and free feeling you receive from the stylized contour lines as fork fingers.”
Interestingly Miles whom I initially assumed did not enjoy blogging says that he “enjoyed starting it and that he finds it much easier than the visual diary”. He has also shown his blog to his family and friends. “I was quite boastful and ecstatic about my blog”.
When I asked Miles if he though that blogging was a useful tool for jewellery designers and design students he replied very positively. “Yes, it reveals each person’s style of jewellery in a different way. I could also receive newer or better ideas from seeing other student's blogs (of how they think, design and produce their style)”.
I feel that Miles has benefitted greatly from blogging. Updating his blog weekly has helped him with his design work. The more he posts, the better his self expression has and will continue to become. In time he will be able to look back at his blog and see how his communication and observation skills have improved.
Methodology
2.2 Methodology
I worked in conjunction with Xtine Stepcic, the design lecturer in the Jewellery Design and Manufacture department at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. She is responsible for the first-year student’s sketch book format design diary, in which the students have to include and discuss two examples of design each week. One design must be an item of jewellery by any designer. The other can be any form of design of their choice – architecture, a photograph, advertisement etc. Xtine allowed me to teach the students to covert their diaries into blog form.
I introduced the students to the concept of blogging and to the uses and benefits of blogs. I wrote and presented them with a brief detailing how to create their own blogs and instructed them to continue with their design diaries in blog form. They began this on June 1, 2010 in the class time that I had been assigned and were given two days to complete the task. I was very fortunate in being given class time to work with the students. This was very important to my study as it allowed me to work hand in hand with the students, observe their reaction at being introduced to other designer’s blogs and their responses to creating their own blogs.
As each student expressed themselves differently, it also played a larger role in showing how different people tackle blogging, allowing me to further understand the blogs I included in my body of work. Overall this allowed me to further demonstrate the importance of blogging as a multi- functional tool.
I have included three examples of student blogs to show how different the structure and content is of each, despite the fact that they were all given the same brief and the same amount of time to complete the task.
I worked in conjunction with Xtine Stepcic, the design lecturer in the Jewellery Design and Manufacture department at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. She is responsible for the first-year student’s sketch book format design diary, in which the students have to include and discuss two examples of design each week. One design must be an item of jewellery by any designer. The other can be any form of design of their choice – architecture, a photograph, advertisement etc. Xtine allowed me to teach the students to covert their diaries into blog form.
I introduced the students to the concept of blogging and to the uses and benefits of blogs. I wrote and presented them with a brief detailing how to create their own blogs and instructed them to continue with their design diaries in blog form. They began this on June 1, 2010 in the class time that I had been assigned and were given two days to complete the task. I was very fortunate in being given class time to work with the students. This was very important to my study as it allowed me to work hand in hand with the students, observe their reaction at being introduced to other designer’s blogs and their responses to creating their own blogs.
As each student expressed themselves differently, it also played a larger role in showing how different people tackle blogging, allowing me to further understand the blogs I included in my body of work. Overall this allowed me to further demonstrate the importance of blogging as a multi- functional tool.
I have included three examples of student blogs to show how different the structure and content is of each, despite the fact that they were all given the same brief and the same amount of time to complete the task.
CHAPTER TWO: A project on blogs conducted with first year students of the Cape Peninsula University of Technology
2.1 Motivation
Blogging, as a means of marketing and communication and as a form of recording designs and progress, is not currently included in the curriculum of the ND Jewellery Design and Manufacture at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
I wanted to show that using a blog, instead of a book-form Design Diary, would be an efficient method of recording work, allowing review, feedback and comment.
I believe that introducing students to blogging will be a great benefit to them in their future careers. It will aid them in the process of designing and displaying their own work and marketing themselves as designers, as well as allowing them to keep abreast of trends in the industry and work that other jewellers are producing.
I also believe that student blogs, as a method of producing and submitting design work, would be of great advantage to the lecturer. The lecturer could access student work from any computer and would not have to carry piles of heavy books. In addition, student blogs would allow for better control of work, as the lecturer could see when work was completed by the time of the post.
Blogging, as a means of marketing and communication and as a form of recording designs and progress, is not currently included in the curriculum of the ND Jewellery Design and Manufacture at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology.
I wanted to show that using a blog, instead of a book-form Design Diary, would be an efficient method of recording work, allowing review, feedback and comment.
I believe that introducing students to blogging will be a great benefit to them in their future careers. It will aid them in the process of designing and displaying their own work and marketing themselves as designers, as well as allowing them to keep abreast of trends in the industry and work that other jewellers are producing.
I also believe that student blogs, as a method of producing and submitting design work, would be of great advantage to the lecturer. The lecturer could access student work from any computer and would not have to carry piles of heavy books. In addition, student blogs would allow for better control of work, as the lecturer could see when work was completed by the time of the post.
In the fashion loop
1.5.11 In the fashion loop
Amber is a trend forecaster and fashion designer for Mr Price, one of the most successful clothing stores in South Africa. Mr Price is the clothing retailer of choice for the middle income bracket. The first store opened in South Africa in 1987. In 2000 Mr Price stores opened in Botswana and Namibia and more recently stores can also be found in Kenya. There are now over three hundred Mr Price stores in South Africa and our neighbouring countries.
In the fashion loop, the Mr Price fashion blog was began in 2009 by Amber. More recently the Guys Stuff blog was introduced to focus on men’s fashion.
In the fashion loop mainly features new fashion trends in the fashion industry. The posts often include images from fashion shows, themed magazine photo shoots and catalogues. In the fashion loop reflects the stock of the actual Mr Price stores.
The blog also promotes new and up-and-coming artists. Readers are able to submit photographs, any form of design, illustrations and art pieces for inclusion on the blog.
The first post I will be discussing (posted on July 6th 2010) is titled Them and us. This post promotes one of Mr Price’s new t-shirts designs, know as the Breton tee. The images included in the post are examples of a similar t-shirts being worn in different ways, as well as the Mr Price version of the t-shirt. I have included this post to show how Amber encourages interaction with readers by asking them “how do you wear yours?” This is a very efficient way of marketing and gathering feedback on the Mr Price products.
In the fashion loop is utilised as a means of gathering important information about the Mr Price target market, by encouraging interaction between designers and followers of the blog and monitoring their responses.
The second example (posted Friday June 11th 2010) I will discuss is Soccer Fever. This post consists of images taken at the Mr Price Offices. All of the staff at the Mr Price Headquarters are dressed in bright colours in support of Bafana Bafana, the South African national soccer team. This post is showing a blog being used as a promotional and communication tool. The post gives a good image of the company, showing that the staff are happy and proudly South African. Readers will be able to relate well to this and it is also a great way of attracting possible employees. This post shows the Mr Price work environment as a very positive space.
Amber is a trend forecaster and fashion designer for Mr Price, one of the most successful clothing stores in South Africa. Mr Price is the clothing retailer of choice for the middle income bracket. The first store opened in South Africa in 1987. In 2000 Mr Price stores opened in Botswana and Namibia and more recently stores can also be found in Kenya. There are now over three hundred Mr Price stores in South Africa and our neighbouring countries.
In the fashion loop, the Mr Price fashion blog was began in 2009 by Amber. More recently the Guys Stuff blog was introduced to focus on men’s fashion.
In the fashion loop mainly features new fashion trends in the fashion industry. The posts often include images from fashion shows, themed magazine photo shoots and catalogues. In the fashion loop reflects the stock of the actual Mr Price stores.
The blog also promotes new and up-and-coming artists. Readers are able to submit photographs, any form of design, illustrations and art pieces for inclusion on the blog.
The first post I will be discussing (posted on July 6th 2010) is titled Them and us. This post promotes one of Mr Price’s new t-shirts designs, know as the Breton tee. The images included in the post are examples of a similar t-shirts being worn in different ways, as well as the Mr Price version of the t-shirt. I have included this post to show how Amber encourages interaction with readers by asking them “how do you wear yours?” This is a very efficient way of marketing and gathering feedback on the Mr Price products.
In the fashion loop is utilised as a means of gathering important information about the Mr Price target market, by encouraging interaction between designers and followers of the blog and monitoring their responses.
The second example (posted Friday June 11th 2010) I will discuss is Soccer Fever. This post consists of images taken at the Mr Price Offices. All of the staff at the Mr Price Headquarters are dressed in bright colours in support of Bafana Bafana, the South African national soccer team. This post is showing a blog being used as a promotional and communication tool. The post gives a good image of the company, showing that the staff are happy and proudly South African. Readers will be able to relate well to this and it is also a great way of attracting possible employees. This post shows the Mr Price work environment as a very positive space.
Sweet Rocket
1.5.10 Sweet Rocket
Steffany has another blog called Sweet Rocket on her profile. This blog was started by her and Dannali Wilson, a
The jewellery from this range is very simple and light. This blog has very few posts but has been included to demonstrate the use of multiple blogs and contributors.
Click here for to view the example.
Steffany loves
1.5.9 Steffany loves
Steffany Roup is a born and bred Capetonian. Her journey to beginning her jewellery label, Steffany Roup Design Studio was a natural progression. She studied Jewellery Design at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and was supplying small boutique stores before she completed her studies.
Steffany manufactures predominantly in silver and has recently begun experimenting with enamels. She has also recently begun designing and manufacturing leather good which include simple sandals and purses. Her inspiration is drawn from her surroundings:
“the sea, the clouds, plants and flowers. I'm also inspired by friends, fashion, books, dreams, crystals and random shapes” – Steffany Roup
This comes across very strongly in her work.
Steffany’s label is still small and although growing slowly she was recently invited to exhibit in her first Cape Town Design Indaba this year (2010). Steffany began her blog Steffany loves in June 2008, when she started her Etsy store, an online auction site focusing mainly on vintage trinkets and arts and crafts, as a means of marketing herself. In her own words she found it “an easier option to a website, (something I could set up and do myself) and as a way to communicate to people who are interested in what I do. It’s also a creative outlet- I can show things that inspire me, and get feedback.”
In my opinion Steffany loves adds much to this body of work. This blog is a great example of how a blog can be, as described by herself, ”a creative outlet”. Steffany herself is a shy and charming person. This comes across in her blog. In comparison to Eendag op n reendag, Steffany utilises images instead of words to convey her likes and inspirations. She has not filled in her profile information about herself whereas Marietjie Beeslaar from Skermunkil wrote an entire paragraph on herself and her likes.
The first post (posted on Monday June 21st 2010) I will discuss is entitled sophie bazin. This post is composed of two images, both of beadwork by artist Sophie Bazin. Steffany draws the attention of the reader to the texture, shape and colour of the beadwork. This is an interesting post as these colours can be found throughout Steffany’s own work. In a way she is using this post as a colour swatch, showing the colours she uses in her designs.
Another notable aspect of this post is her use of text. There is little text in this post, all of which is in lower case. This gives the post a calm, relaxed feel. Most of the posts on Steffany Loves are written lower case, thus allowing the images to become the main focus.
Example two (posted on Friday March 19th 2010), End of summer sale, is a very straight forward post. I have included this post to demonstrate again that it is helpful in the design world to start a blog to market one’s product, one’s designs and one’s self.
Steffany Roup is a born and bred Capetonian. Her journey to beginning her jewellery label, Steffany Roup Design Studio was a natural progression. She studied Jewellery Design at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and was supplying small boutique stores before she completed her studies.
Steffany manufactures predominantly in silver and has recently begun experimenting with enamels. She has also recently begun designing and manufacturing leather good which include simple sandals and purses. Her inspiration is drawn from her surroundings:
“the sea, the clouds, plants and flowers. I'm also inspired by friends, fashion, books, dreams, crystals and random shapes” – Steffany Roup
This comes across very strongly in her work.
Steffany’s label is still small and although growing slowly she was recently invited to exhibit in her first Cape Town Design Indaba this year (2010). Steffany began her blog Steffany loves in June 2008, when she started her Etsy store, an online auction site focusing mainly on vintage trinkets and arts and crafts, as a means of marketing herself. In her own words she found it “an easier option to a website, (something I could set up and do myself) and as a way to communicate to people who are interested in what I do. It’s also a creative outlet- I can show things that inspire me, and get feedback.”
In my opinion Steffany loves adds much to this body of work. This blog is a great example of how a blog can be, as described by herself, ”a creative outlet”. Steffany herself is a shy and charming person. This comes across in her blog. In comparison to Eendag op n reendag, Steffany utilises images instead of words to convey her likes and inspirations. She has not filled in her profile information about herself whereas Marietjie Beeslaar from Skermunkil wrote an entire paragraph on herself and her likes.
The first post (posted on Monday June 21st 2010) I will discuss is entitled sophie bazin. This post is composed of two images, both of beadwork by artist Sophie Bazin. Steffany draws the attention of the reader to the texture, shape and colour of the beadwork. This is an interesting post as these colours can be found throughout Steffany’s own work. In a way she is using this post as a colour swatch, showing the colours she uses in her designs.
Another notable aspect of this post is her use of text. There is little text in this post, all of which is in lower case. This gives the post a calm, relaxed feel. Most of the posts on Steffany Loves are written lower case, thus allowing the images to become the main focus.
Example two (posted on Friday March 19th 2010), End of summer sale, is a very straight forward post. I have included this post to demonstrate again that it is helpful in the design world to start a blog to market one’s product, one’s designs and one’s self.
Eendag op n reendag
1.5.8 Eendag op n reendag
Eendag op n reendag is a blog created by Marietjie Beeslaar for her jewellery label Skermunkil. Marietjie is a 32 year old jeweller and designer from Muizenberg, Cape Town. She completed her studies at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in 1999. She began her jewellery label Skermunkil in 2006 and has since taken Cape Town and the rest of the country by storm. As well as having exhibited at the Cape Town Design Indaba for the past 3 years running (since 2007) Marietjie’s work can be found in stores across the country.
Her work which consists of intricately delicate pendants, rings, earrings and badges can be found in many stores including The Space and Tinsel in Johannesburg and Mungo & Jemima, The Wardrobe and Journey in Cape Town. Her jewellery has a unique, recontextualised element which I love. She works with multiple mediums including silver, gold, resin, wood, enamel, perspex, antique cutlery and broken crockery.
“I love it when old or everyday things are taken from their original context and recycled or redesigned into something completely new and beautiful. I love Frauke Stegmann’s Milnerton Market Is Nice range of ceramics and I love Heath Nash’s big colourful plastic lights. I also love the beautifully illustrated handmade books by Lyndi Sales of Fynbos Plants and I love Heather Moore’s amazing paper cut-outs - I want them all!” - Marietjie Beeslaar
Eendag op n reendag is a blog that I really enjoy. I find it easy to follow, informative and yet extremely personal and I chose to include this blog for these reasons. This blog demonstrates how a blog can be used to connect with fans or followers of one’s work. When I read the posts on Eendag op n reendag I feel as if I am being allowed to peek into Marietjie’s collection of memories and eclectic life. By her post subject I feel that I can tell that she is a soft hearted, loving individual. Her casual writing style also makes people feel comfortable in contacting her or commenting on her work.
Eendag op n reendag is an extremely effective marketing tool for Marietjie too. Many other bloggers have created links to her site from theirs by commenting on her work, allowing new people to discover her blog.
The first post (posted on Wednesday June 30th 2010) from Eendag op n reendag I will be discussing is entitled Skermunkil. This post is a good example of marketing and advertising used in a blog. Here Marietjie is informing followers and viewers that she is currently working on new jewellery and trying something different and is providing a platform for comments and participation from readers. Marietjie is also providing the information that she is opening her own etsy store and has made a link to her etsy page. In one click she has the viewer perusing her online store. Very clever.
The second post (posted on Wednesday May 26th 2010) I have included is, I feel, more of a personal post. The post is about a song, Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler. Marietjie is letting the reader know something about her that they would have only found out through personal conversation. The post also has the fun and interesting element of having a video that the reader can play it straight off of the blog. I found it impossible to not click the play button. A mood is instantly set as soon as the video plays.
Overall I feel that Eendag op n reendag is a fantastic example of the use of a blog by a jewellery designer. It is a pleasure to follow. It is interesting, fun and informative. It flows well and allows the reader to feel a part of Marietjie’s design process. This blog has proved to be the bridge between Maritjie's label and the people who wear her jewellery, people who would like to wear her jewellery and people looking for new and interesting designs.
Eendag op n reendag is a blog created by Marietjie Beeslaar for her jewellery label Skermunkil. Marietjie is a 32 year old jeweller and designer from Muizenberg, Cape Town. She completed her studies at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology in 1999. She began her jewellery label Skermunkil in 2006 and has since taken Cape Town and the rest of the country by storm. As well as having exhibited at the Cape Town Design Indaba for the past 3 years running (since 2007) Marietjie’s work can be found in stores across the country.
Her work which consists of intricately delicate pendants, rings, earrings and badges can be found in many stores including The Space and Tinsel in Johannesburg and Mungo & Jemima, The Wardrobe and Journey in Cape Town. Her jewellery has a unique, recontextualised element which I love. She works with multiple mediums including silver, gold, resin, wood, enamel, perspex, antique cutlery and broken crockery.
“I love it when old or everyday things are taken from their original context and recycled or redesigned into something completely new and beautiful. I love Frauke Stegmann’s Milnerton Market Is Nice range of ceramics and I love Heath Nash’s big colourful plastic lights. I also love the beautifully illustrated handmade books by Lyndi Sales of Fynbos Plants and I love Heather Moore’s amazing paper cut-outs - I want them all!” - Marietjie Beeslaar
Eendag op n reendag is a blog that I really enjoy. I find it easy to follow, informative and yet extremely personal and I chose to include this blog for these reasons. This blog demonstrates how a blog can be used to connect with fans or followers of one’s work. When I read the posts on Eendag op n reendag I feel as if I am being allowed to peek into Marietjie’s collection of memories and eclectic life. By her post subject I feel that I can tell that she is a soft hearted, loving individual. Her casual writing style also makes people feel comfortable in contacting her or commenting on her work.
Eendag op n reendag is an extremely effective marketing tool for Marietjie too. Many other bloggers have created links to her site from theirs by commenting on her work, allowing new people to discover her blog.
The first post (posted on Wednesday June 30th 2010) from Eendag op n reendag I will be discussing is entitled Skermunkil. This post is a good example of marketing and advertising used in a blog. Here Marietjie is informing followers and viewers that she is currently working on new jewellery and trying something different and is providing a platform for comments and participation from readers. Marietjie is also providing the information that she is opening her own etsy store and has made a link to her etsy page. In one click she has the viewer perusing her online store. Very clever.
The second post (posted on Wednesday May 26th 2010) I have included is, I feel, more of a personal post. The post is about a song, Total Eclipse of the Heart by Bonnie Tyler. Marietjie is letting the reader know something about her that they would have only found out through personal conversation. The post also has the fun and interesting element of having a video that the reader can play it straight off of the blog. I found it impossible to not click the play button. A mood is instantly set as soon as the video plays.
Overall I feel that Eendag op n reendag is a fantastic example of the use of a blog by a jewellery designer. It is a pleasure to follow. It is interesting, fun and informative. It flows well and allows the reader to feel a part of Marietjie’s design process. This blog has proved to be the bridge between Maritjie's label and the people who wear her jewellery, people who would like to wear her jewellery and people looking for new and interesting designs.
Between 10 and 5
1.5.7 Between 10 and 5
Between 10 and 5 is one of the most popular blogs in South Africa. It is also the third Blog that Alix is involved in. This blog is a showcase for the South African creative industry. It was started in 2008 by Uno de Vaal and Johanne Schmella. More recently they have employed Kate Desmarais and Alix-Rose Cowie to work with them as contributors.
“We felt frustrated because we knew a whole bunch of our friends who worked in design fields, and we knew that South Africa was producing some amazing creative work, so we thought let us create a space for that.” –Uno de Vaal
Between 10 and 5 consists of daily posts featuring the latest and best work from South African advertising agencies, freelancers, illustrators, artist and other creatives. Most of their features currently consist of ad agency produced material such as TV commercials, posters and other advertisements. However they are day by day adding illustrators and designers from other mediums to their database.
Between 10 and 5 is one of my personal favourite blogs. I find that the content of the posts are always interesting and in some way inspiring. Each contributor has their own style, which keeps the blog fresh. When I interviewed Alix and asked her if she enjoyed working for between 10 and 5 she gave me this enthusiastic response:
“I really enjoy working for Between 10 and 5 because I believe in their cause. They aim to showcase all the great design, advertising, web sites, photography, jewellery, fashion and product design that comes out of South Africa. Everything on the blog is South African work or is relevant to SA. Another thing that I think is great about 10and5 is that all the work is part of an open forum where the design industry can comment, give constructive criticism or praise. The regular commenters are also very vigilant about plagiarism; if they've seen something done before by somebody else they are quick to call it out. This keeps an eye on copy cats getting credit for work that isn't theirs. The really fun part about working for 10and5 is that we take submissions, so often people will send in an advertising campaign, fashion line or music video that we get to view before anyone else. And the invites to exhibitions, gallery openings and media passes to events such as The Loerie Awards don't hurt either!”
Between 10 and 5 is a slightly more complicated blog than the other blogs I have included in this body of work. There is a vast amount of information to be found on this blog, which can often become confusing. However, through the use of cleverly placed links, for example “expanded categories”, “recent posts” and “popular posts this week” the problem of navigating the blog is solved.
The first post I have included (posted on July 7th 2010) is an Advertisement for Woolworths. The advertisement is in conjunction with the FIFA World Cup 2010. Woolworths is a South African based corporation. The post is short and the only text is crediting the creators of the advert, thus allowing for the actual advert to draw the attention of the reader. This fulfils the aim of the blog itself.
The second post (posted on July 7th 2010) is an example of Between 10 and 5 showcasing new design talent in South Africa. It is also notable how the two posts differ in both subject and style. If both had been on the same subject, the posts would not be as interesting when read in consecutive order.
Between 10 and 5 is one of the most popular blogs in South Africa. It is also the third Blog that Alix is involved in. This blog is a showcase for the South African creative industry. It was started in 2008 by Uno de Vaal and Johanne Schmella. More recently they have employed Kate Desmarais and Alix-Rose Cowie to work with them as contributors.
“We felt frustrated because we knew a whole bunch of our friends who worked in design fields, and we knew that South Africa was producing some amazing creative work, so we thought let us create a space for that.” –Uno de Vaal
Between 10 and 5 consists of daily posts featuring the latest and best work from South African advertising agencies, freelancers, illustrators, artist and other creatives. Most of their features currently consist of ad agency produced material such as TV commercials, posters and other advertisements. However they are day by day adding illustrators and designers from other mediums to their database.
Between 10 and 5 is one of my personal favourite blogs. I find that the content of the posts are always interesting and in some way inspiring. Each contributor has their own style, which keeps the blog fresh. When I interviewed Alix and asked her if she enjoyed working for between 10 and 5 she gave me this enthusiastic response:
“I really enjoy working for Between 10 and 5 because I believe in their cause. They aim to showcase all the great design, advertising, web sites, photography, jewellery, fashion and product design that comes out of South Africa. Everything on the blog is South African work or is relevant to SA. Another thing that I think is great about 10and5 is that all the work is part of an open forum where the design industry can comment, give constructive criticism or praise. The regular commenters are also very vigilant about plagiarism; if they've seen something done before by somebody else they are quick to call it out. This keeps an eye on copy cats getting credit for work that isn't theirs. The really fun part about working for 10and5 is that we take submissions, so often people will send in an advertising campaign, fashion line or music video that we get to view before anyone else. And the invites to exhibitions, gallery openings and media passes to events such as The Loerie Awards don't hurt either!”
Between 10 and 5 is a slightly more complicated blog than the other blogs I have included in this body of work. There is a vast amount of information to be found on this blog, which can often become confusing. However, through the use of cleverly placed links, for example “expanded categories”, “recent posts” and “popular posts this week” the problem of navigating the blog is solved.
The first post I have included (posted on July 7th 2010) is an Advertisement for Woolworths. The advertisement is in conjunction with the FIFA World Cup 2010. Woolworths is a South African based corporation. The post is short and the only text is crediting the creators of the advert, thus allowing for the actual advert to draw the attention of the reader. This fulfils the aim of the blog itself.
The second post (posted on July 7th 2010) is an example of Between 10 and 5 showcasing new design talent in South Africa. It is also notable how the two posts differ in both subject and style. If both had been on the same subject, the posts would not be as interesting when read in consecutive order.
Unfashionable
1.5.6 Unfashionable
Alix started Unfashionable purely for herself. She admits that she is addicted to fashion blogs and follows over 80 unique fashion blogs regularly. She wanted to begin her own as way to store all her inspiration for both fashion and fashion photography.
“It's really fun to trawl the net for beautiful imagery and fashion editorials, pick your best ones and post them to your own blog. Successful fashion blogs are those that are on trend up to the minute. These bloggers usually have thousands of followers or daily readers and then fashion brands see them as lucrative places to advertise. They are always getting free stuff! Clothes, bags, shoes, sunglasses and jewellery! In turn they have to endorse the products. They are starting to take up the front rows at all the major fashion weeks!” - Alix-Rose Cowie
The two posts I have include (Example one posted on
Alix is for hire
1.5.5 Alix is for hire
Alix is a Cape Town based art director. She originates from East London, South Africa. Alix moved to Cape Town to further her education. She completed her BA Degree in Visual Communication specializing in Art Direction at AAA, School of Advertising, Cape Town in 2008. The three year course covered art direction in advertising, TV production, history of graphic design, photography theory and marketing.
Alix is very possibly the most interesting blogger I have included in this body of work. She works on three blogs simultaneously. The first of her blogs I will be discussing is alix is for hire.
She began this blog in November 2008 when she was about to graduate. At the time it consisted mainly of her college work and was used as an online portfolio.
“Most agencies required a CV and a pdf of less than 5megs to be emailed to them. This meant that you could only send about five to seven pieces of your portfolio. I sent a link to alix is for hire along with the pdf and CV so that creative directors or those looking to hire could see all of my work and see that I had taken initiative to market myself and showcase my work on a public platform.” - Alix-Rose Cowie
Using a blog in this way was a fantastic aid to Alix and helped her to secure a job at Cape Town based agency King James. She now uses this blog to showcase her photography, a field she is trying to enter. alix is for hire is a perfect example of successful blog use in the design industry.
“Firstly a blog is another form of marketing, whether you are using it to gain exposure for your work, your product, your brand or even yourself. It's a free marketing tool that allows you to reach people all over the world and the fact that people can leave comments on your blog means that it is a world-wide conversation that gives you research into your market if you are a brand or gives you feedback or new ideas as a designer. For those with personal blogs it can give confidence and positive reinforcement.
Secondly a blog is a form of self-expression. How you want the world to see you or hear you through pictures or word.” -Alix-Rose Cowie
I have included examples, a post of Alix’s graduation work and a post of her recently taken photographs. The first post (posted on March 23rd 2010) that I will discuss is Exhibition. This post consists of two images, photographs that she submitted for an exhibition. The post is both informative and personal. She is showcasing her up-and-coming exhibition, whilst expressing her personal hopes that these two particular photographs will be included in another section of the same exhibition. I feel that her combination of marketing her work and self expression is very successful.
The second post (November 18th 2008) included is entitled Sour Worms. Print. It is a project that Alix completed during her graduate year. I find it interesting that she has not included any text other than the post title. It is short, sharp and to the point, providing a perfect platform to showcase her work.
Alix is a Cape Town based art director. She originates from East London, South Africa. Alix moved to Cape Town to further her education. She completed her BA Degree in Visual Communication specializing in Art Direction at AAA, School of Advertising, Cape Town in 2008. The three year course covered art direction in advertising, TV production, history of graphic design, photography theory and marketing.
Alix is very possibly the most interesting blogger I have included in this body of work. She works on three blogs simultaneously. The first of her blogs I will be discussing is alix is for hire.
She began this blog in November 2008 when she was about to graduate. At the time it consisted mainly of her college work and was used as an online portfolio.
“Most agencies required a CV and a pdf of less than 5megs to be emailed to them. This meant that you could only send about five to seven pieces of your portfolio. I sent a link to alix is for hire along with the pdf and CV so that creative directors or those looking to hire could see all of my work and see that I had taken initiative to market myself and showcase my work on a public platform.” - Alix-Rose Cowie
Using a blog in this way was a fantastic aid to Alix and helped her to secure a job at Cape Town based agency King James. She now uses this blog to showcase her photography, a field she is trying to enter. alix is for hire is a perfect example of successful blog use in the design industry.
“Firstly a blog is another form of marketing, whether you are using it to gain exposure for your work, your product, your brand or even yourself. It's a free marketing tool that allows you to reach people all over the world and the fact that people can leave comments on your blog means that it is a world-wide conversation that gives you research into your market if you are a brand or gives you feedback or new ideas as a designer. For those with personal blogs it can give confidence and positive reinforcement.
Secondly a blog is a form of self-expression. How you want the world to see you or hear you through pictures or word.” -Alix-Rose Cowie
I have included examples, a post of Alix’s graduation work and a post of her recently taken photographs. The first post (posted on March 23rd 2010) that I will discuss is Exhibition. This post consists of two images, photographs that she submitted for an exhibition. The post is both informative and personal. She is showcasing her up-and-coming exhibition, whilst expressing her personal hopes that these two particular photographs will be included in another section of the same exhibition. I feel that her combination of marketing her work and self expression is very successful.
The second post (November 18th 2008) included is entitled Sour Worms. Print. It is a project that Alix completed during her graduate year. I find it interesting that she has not included any text other than the post title. It is short, sharp and to the point, providing a perfect platform to showcase her work.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
The Sartorialist
1.5.4 The Sartorialist
sar·to·ri·al
sar·to·ri·al [saar táwree əl]
adj
1. of tailoring: relating to tailoring or clothing in general
2. of sartorius muscle: relating to the sartorius muscle in the thigh
sar·to·ri·al [saar táwree əl]
adj
1. of tailoring: relating to tailoring or clothing in general
2. of sartorius muscle: relating to the sartorius muscle in the thigh
The Sartorialist was the first blog that I decided to include in this body of work. I have been eagerly following this blog for two years. Scott Schuman was first introduced to fashion during his tertiary education at the Indiana University of America. Here he studied Apparel Merchandising and Costume Construction. His courses included tailoring, dress making and pattern making, in which he unexpectedly excelled.
Schuman worked in sales and marketing for high-end women’s designer collections such as Valentino and Jean-Paul Gaultier. He eventually opened his own showroom, where he specialised in promoting and managing press for up and coming young designers. After 15 years in the fashion industry he closed his showroom and began focusing more on his photography.
He began carrying his camera around and taking pictures of people whose dress and body language caught his eye.
Schuman began The Sartorialist in 2005 simply to share photographs of people he saw on the streets.
“I thought I could shoot people on the street the way designers looked at people, and get and give inspiration to lots of people in the process. My only strategy when I began The Sartorialist was to try and shoot style in a way that I knew most designers hunted for inspiration” -Scott Schuman
Schuman is now a feature in the front row of every major fashion show and event in the international fashion industry, allowing him to find his subjects not just in New York. His subjects have ranged from celebrities to car guards, royalty to fishermen. Each picture and post is extensively commented on by the followers of his blog. He has pioneered fashion photography in blog form.
The Sartorialist has found such great success that Schuman has been featured in and has written for publications around the world including Vogue (Britain, France, Spain, Italy and Korea), Esquire, GQ and The New York Times. In 2009 an assortment of his images were published in a book, simply titled The Satorialist: The Place To Be Seen. According to the statistics of the 99 Most Influential Fashion Blogs and Beauty Blogs, the Sartorialist was the most influential fashion blog of 2009. It was selected as one of one of Time Magazine’s Top 100 Design Influences.
The first post from The Sartorialist that I will l be discussing is entitled On the Street... Pocket Square & Tee Shirt, Florence. This post is a typical Sartorialist post. The subject of the photograph is a middle aged man, taken in Florence. Schuman has commented on the unconventional way the man has has paired his formal blazer and pocket square with a casual t-shirt. The way that the image (photograph) is the main focus of the post is also very typical of the style of this blog.
Schuman usually uses little or no text in his posts. This allows the readers to interpret the images in their own individual way. The second post I have included is an interesting example of Schuman using his photography for social commentary. The unusual use of text in this particular post shows an unusual need to express his opinion.
Introduction to the blogs I have used in this study
1.5.3 Introduction to the blogs I have used in this study
I have selected eight blogs for inclusion in this study, all of which illustrate some aspect of blogging that I feel is important to highlight.
Each one falls into the broad category of design- either jewellery, fashion, photography, art, advertising, or a combination of these.
I have focussed on South African blogs as being most relevant to this study.
The blogs I have included as examples are:
The Sartorialist. This is the only internationally-based blog I have included. This is a professional, yet very personal blog, focussing on photography and style that has become relevant to social comment and influential in international design. It demonstrates the extent to which a blog can become popular and successful with many international followers.
Alix is for hire, Unfashionable and Between 10 and 5 focus on various aspects of design, from photography, to advertising and fashion and show the use of multiple blogs by one user to highlight the alternative uses of blogs. They demonstrate self-expression, advertising and product exposure.
Eendag op n Reendag, Steffany loves and Sweet rocket are examples of blogs written by South African jewellers and are very relevant to the context of this work. These all demonstrate the use of a blog for marketing, networking, product design and development, information and personal comment.
In the fashion loop is an example of a corporate blog, used for communication within a company as well as for cost-effective marketing of products.
I have selected eight blogs for inclusion in this study, all of which illustrate some aspect of blogging that I feel is important to highlight.
Each one falls into the broad category of design- either jewellery, fashion, photography, art, advertising, or a combination of these.
I have focussed on South African blogs as being most relevant to this study.
The blogs I have included as examples are:
The Sartorialist. This is the only internationally-based blog I have included. This is a professional, yet very personal blog, focussing on photography and style that has become relevant to social comment and influential in international design. It demonstrates the extent to which a blog can become popular and successful with many international followers.
Alix is for hire, Unfashionable and Between 10 and 5 focus on various aspects of design, from photography, to advertising and fashion and show the use of multiple blogs by one user to highlight the alternative uses of blogs. They demonstrate self-expression, advertising and product exposure.
Eendag op n Reendag, Steffany loves and Sweet rocket are examples of blogs written by South African jewellers and are very relevant to the context of this work. These all demonstrate the use of a blog for marketing, networking, product design and development, information and personal comment.
In the fashion loop is an example of a corporate blog, used for communication within a company as well as for cost-effective marketing of products.
Methodology
1.5.2 Methodology
My first step in producing this study was to investigate the origins, development and uses of blogs. I needed to understand what a blog is, the history of blogging, how a blog is established and why blogs have become such an important means of communication and expression.
Secondly I had to choose blogs for inclusion in this study that I thought demonstrated the effective use of a blog by a designer. The Internet was my main source of information and I spent many hours searching for relevant blogs. Of the hundreds of blogs I read, I then selected eight that I thought best showed the features of blogging that I believe are important to a designer.
Once I had selected the blogs for inclusion, I contacted the bloggers directly for further information and comment. I found them all to be friendly and revealing and happy to answer my questions. They were all interested in my topic and adamant that
blogging is a great way of networking and an extremely effective marketing tool. I have included various quotes from them to add to weight to my body of work.
My first step in producing this study was to investigate the origins, development and uses of blogs. I needed to understand what a blog is, the history of blogging, how a blog is established and why blogs have become such an important means of communication and expression.
Secondly I had to choose blogs for inclusion in this study that I thought demonstrated the effective use of a blog by a designer. The Internet was my main source of information and I spent many hours searching for relevant blogs. Of the hundreds of blogs I read, I then selected eight that I thought best showed the features of blogging that I believe are important to a designer.
Once I had selected the blogs for inclusion, I contacted the bloggers directly for further information and comment. I found them all to be friendly and revealing and happy to answer my questions. They were all interested in my topic and adamant that
blogging is a great way of networking and an extremely effective marketing tool. I have included various quotes from them to add to weight to my body of work.
Blog Reviews
1.5.1 Motivation
Through my personal experience of blogging, both as a follower of various blogs and by setting up my own blog, I have discovered that blogging provides me with enormous benefits. It provides a constant source of motivation and allows me to keep up to date with developing trends within the jewellery design field.
In this study, I wanted to demonstrate that blogging is an important tool for the jewellery designer – one that has been largely overlooked in South Africa. Currently design is exploding in South Africa and local designers are producing exciting world-class work. I believe that blogging is an effective means of exposure for their work.
I decided to review design-related blogs, focussing on those of South African designers, to demonstrate the value of blogging as a tool for marketing, networking, feedback and development.
Through my personal experience of blogging, both as a follower of various blogs and by setting up my own blog, I have discovered that blogging provides me with enormous benefits. It provides a constant source of motivation and allows me to keep up to date with developing trends within the jewellery design field.
In this study, I wanted to demonstrate that blogging is an important tool for the jewellery designer – one that has been largely overlooked in South Africa. Currently design is exploding in South Africa and local designers are producing exciting world-class work. I believe that blogging is an effective means of exposure for their work.
I decided to review design-related blogs, focussing on those of South African designers, to demonstrate the value of blogging as a tool for marketing, networking, feedback and development.
Different types of blogs
1.4 Different types of blogs
There are many different types of blogs, differing not only in the type of content, but also in the way that content is delivered or written.
1.4.1 Personal blogs
The personal blog, an ongoing diary or commentary by an individual, is the traditional, most common blog. Blogs often become more than just a way to communicate; they become a way to reflect on life. Some personal blogs quickly garner an extensive following.
1.4.2 Corporate and organizational blogs
A blog can be used for business purposes, to enhance the communication and culture in a corporation, or for marketing, branding or public relations purposes. Similar blogs for clubs and societies are called club blogs, or group blogs, and the typical use is to inform members and other interested parties of club and member activities.
1.4.3 Genre blogs
Some blogs focus on a particular subject, such as politics, travel or fashion. Two common types of genre blogs are art blogs and music blogs
1.4.4 Media type blogs
A blog comprising videos is called a vlog, one comprising links is called a linklog, a site containing a portfolio of sketches is called a sketchblog or one comprising photos is called a photoblog. Blogs with shorter posts and mixed media types are called tumblelogs.
1.4.5 Device blogs
Blogs can also be defined by which type of device is used to compose it. A blog written by a mobile device like a mobile phone could be called a moblog.
There are many different types of blogs, differing not only in the type of content, but also in the way that content is delivered or written.
1.4.1 Personal blogs
The personal blog, an ongoing diary or commentary by an individual, is the traditional, most common blog. Blogs often become more than just a way to communicate; they become a way to reflect on life. Some personal blogs quickly garner an extensive following.
1.4.2 Corporate and organizational blogs
A blog can be used for business purposes, to enhance the communication and culture in a corporation, or for marketing, branding or public relations purposes. Similar blogs for clubs and societies are called club blogs, or group blogs, and the typical use is to inform members and other interested parties of club and member activities.
1.4.3 Genre blogs
Some blogs focus on a particular subject, such as politics, travel or fashion. Two common types of genre blogs are art blogs and music blogs
1.4.4 Media type blogs
A blog comprising videos is called a vlog, one comprising links is called a linklog, a site containing a portfolio of sketches is called a sketchblog or one comprising photos is called a photoblog. Blogs with shorter posts and mixed media types are called tumblelogs.
1.4.5 Device blogs
Blogs can also be defined by which type of device is used to compose it. A blog written by a mobile device like a mobile phone could be called a moblog.
What is a blog post?
1.3. What is a blog post?
A blog post is a supplement added to a blog on a regular basis.
A blog post has three basic attributes: title, link and description. All are optional. Some weblogs only have descriptions. Others always have all three. Most blog posts are short and consist of a paragraph or two.
A blog post is a supplement added to a blog on a regular basis.
A blog post has three basic attributes: title, link and description. All are optional. Some weblogs only have descriptions. Others always have all three. Most blog posts are short and consist of a paragraph or two.
What is a blog?
1.2 What is a blog?
The term blog is derived from Web log – a diary or journal posted on the World Wide Web. A blog is a hierarchy of text, images, media objects and data, arranged chronologically, that can be viewed on a computer that is linked to the World Wide Web.
The term blog is derived from Web log – a diary or journal posted on the World Wide Web. A blog is a hierarchy of text, images, media objects and data, arranged chronologically, that can be viewed on a computer that is linked to the World Wide Web.
Introduction
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction to blogging
Since my introduction to blogging a year ago, it has swiftly become one of my favourite means of communication. I began my first blog Oh Dear, Megan (www.ohdearmegan.blogspot.com) in January 2010 to aid me with my thesis and have discovered the addiction that many a blogger before me has fallen victim to. Keeping my own blog has allowed me to follow and keep up to date on the work of designers, artists, jewellers, writers, photographers and other creative people. It has proved to be a fantastic networking tool that I have found extremely useful in exploring and understanding the jewellery and design industry.
A blog is a very user friendly tool and allows one to browse effortlessly through archives of images and information. Each blog is completely individual and there are endless ways of using a blog. Most blogging programs allow one to choose everything from the background colour or image to the text size, type and colour. Through the use of these options a blog becomes a unique extension of oneself, or of an organisation or company. There are no limits to, or specifications of the content of a blog - it is completely up to the blogger.
“A blog is merely a tool that lets you do anything from change the world to share your shopping list.” -Tom Foremksi
One of my favourite things about blogging is being able to view artists’ progress and work as soon as they post articles on their respective blogs. The opportunity to view their blogging history has allowed me to better understand their thoughts and design process, an important feature which is often overlooked in the design world. In that sense a blog is similar to a mood board, which is acknowledged as a useful tool in design.
“I think it is equally tiresome and useless to argue about whether blogs are journalism, for journalism is not limited by the tool or medium or person used in the act” -Unknown
Through the classes I gave to the first year Jewellery Design and Manufacture students at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, I have learnt that blogging has been greatly underestimated in both the corporate and design world. A blog can be used for business advice or as a means of keeping the public and even possible investors aware of the development in a company, no matter how small. In the design world a blog can be used as a way of showcasing work in progress, allowing people who view the blog to feel some involvement in the process, as an exhibition of achievement and completed work, or simply to communicate with others with similar interests or in the same field.
Blogs are a fantastic and cost-effective advertising tool – usually a free forum for the blogger. If a frequently read blog mentions or adds a link to another blog; with a simple click, the reader will be transported to that blog. Many design blogs feature other bloggers on their pages, building a blogging community. Through the links on a blog, traffic can be transferred to any site on the World Wide Web.
Revenue from adverts placed on a blog can even provide an income for the blogger. The value of a blog to support, assist and inspire the artist or designer should not be overlooked.
1.1 Introduction to blogging
Since my introduction to blogging a year ago, it has swiftly become one of my favourite means of communication. I began my first blog Oh Dear, Megan (www.ohdearmegan.blogspot.com) in January 2010 to aid me with my thesis and have discovered the addiction that many a blogger before me has fallen victim to. Keeping my own blog has allowed me to follow and keep up to date on the work of designers, artists, jewellers, writers, photographers and other creative people. It has proved to be a fantastic networking tool that I have found extremely useful in exploring and understanding the jewellery and design industry.
A blog is a very user friendly tool and allows one to browse effortlessly through archives of images and information. Each blog is completely individual and there are endless ways of using a blog. Most blogging programs allow one to choose everything from the background colour or image to the text size, type and colour. Through the use of these options a blog becomes a unique extension of oneself, or of an organisation or company. There are no limits to, or specifications of the content of a blog - it is completely up to the blogger.
“A blog is merely a tool that lets you do anything from change the world to share your shopping list.” -Tom Foremksi
One of my favourite things about blogging is being able to view artists’ progress and work as soon as they post articles on their respective blogs. The opportunity to view their blogging history has allowed me to better understand their thoughts and design process, an important feature which is often overlooked in the design world. In that sense a blog is similar to a mood board, which is acknowledged as a useful tool in design.
“I think it is equally tiresome and useless to argue about whether blogs are journalism, for journalism is not limited by the tool or medium or person used in the act” -Unknown
Through the classes I gave to the first year Jewellery Design and Manufacture students at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, I have learnt that blogging has been greatly underestimated in both the corporate and design world. A blog can be used for business advice or as a means of keeping the public and even possible investors aware of the development in a company, no matter how small. In the design world a blog can be used as a way of showcasing work in progress, allowing people who view the blog to feel some involvement in the process, as an exhibition of achievement and completed work, or simply to communicate with others with similar interests or in the same field.
Blogs are a fantastic and cost-effective advertising tool – usually a free forum for the blogger. If a frequently read blog mentions or adds a link to another blog; with a simple click, the reader will be transported to that blog. Many design blogs feature other bloggers on their pages, building a blogging community. Through the links on a blog, traffic can be transferred to any site on the World Wide Web.
Revenue from adverts placed on a blog can even provide an income for the blogger. The value of a blog to support, assist and inspire the artist or designer should not be overlooked.
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