Ella Ikerd Portfolio | Catawba Valley Community College

Design Objective:

To develop a user-centric mobile application that seamlessly integrates innovative features, intuitive navigation, and visually appealing design to enhance user experience and achieve high levels of engagement and satisfaction. Deliver a mobile application that not only meets user needs and expectations.

Design Brief: LOCALS

Locals is a mobile application designed to connect users with a vibrant array of events happening in their vicinity. The primary purpose of Locals is to serve as a comprehensive event discovery platform, aggregating a wide range of local events, including concerts, festivals, workshops, meetups, and more, into a single, user-friendly interface. Locals aims to foster a sense of community, facilitate social connections, and encourage exploration and participation in local culture and activities. Users can easily browse and search for events based on location, date, category, or keyword, enabling them to find activities that match their interests and availability. Locals embodies a contemporary design aesthetic that reflects its modern application with the logo being a simple plastic bag. Both a plastic bag and community have the potential to accumulate and contain various elements, whether it’s groceries or diverse perspectives and talents, demonstrating the importance of inclusivity and diversity. Furthermore, much like the events going on around us, a plastic bag symbolizes the transient nature of interactions and experiences, highlighting the significance of seizing opportunities for connection and engagement within our communities. Locals seeks to inspire users to explore, discover, and participate in the rich tapestry of events happening in their neighborhoods and beyond.

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Scan to use prototype

BIO

At 19, Alex is a dedicated and enthusiastic young man whose love for the water led him to an exciting role at a marina. Growing up by the ocean, he developed a deep appreciation for maritime life and watercraft. With a natural affinity for mechanics and a curious mind, Alex eagerly embraced his position at the marina, where he contributed his skills to maintain and repair boats of all sizes.

BIO

A seasoned financial adviser with 13 years of experience, stands as a pillar of financial wisdom and stability at 37. Beyond spreadsheets and portfolios, Calvin values building lasting relationships, underpinned by trust and transparency. His dedication to his clients’ wellbeing extends beyond the balance sheet, as he envisions a world where financial stability nurtures dreams and aspirations.

BIO

Natalie, a visionary artist, breathes life into her canvases with a unique blend of colors and emotions. Hailing from the bustling city streets, she finds solace in her studio sanctuary where her creativity knows no bounds. With a background in Fine Arts, Natalie crafts intricate narratives through her art, drawing inspiration from her personal journey and the world around her.

ALEX

GOODMAN 20.10.03

CHARLESTON, SC

CALVIN

SMITH 07.04.87

PROVIDENCE, RH

MINIMALISM MAGAZINE

Design Objective:

Create a magazine spread for GRD USA is to craft visually captivating layout that effectively communicates to its target audience. Integrating compelling imagery, engaging typography, and cohesive elements to create a seamless and appealing reading experience.

Design Brief:

This magazine spread focuses on embracing minimalism as a central theme, aiming to convey simplicity, elegance, and functionality through the design elements. The spread utilizes clean lines, ample white space, and restrained color palettes to create a visually serene and uncluttered layout. The typography was selected with care, favoring clean and legible fonts that complement the minimalist aesthetic. Imagery should be used sparingly but purposefully, focusing on high-quality visuals that emphasize simplicity and evoke a sense of tranquility. The overall design should prioritize clarity and coherence, allowing the content to breathe and speak for itself while inviting readers to engage with the spread’s message of embracing simplicity in design and lifestyle.

AMERICAN INHOUSE DESIGN AWARDS

STUDENTS TO WATCH

DESIGNERS

FRIENDLY COMPANIES

ILLUSTRATION

Design Objective:

To visually depict the biblical imagery of Revelation. The illustration will serve as the album cover for a band’s upcoming release, as well as be utilized on promotional posters to captivate audiences and evoke intrigue about the song’s message.

Design Brief:

The illustration features a powerful yet serene depiction of a lion and a lamb peacefully coexisting, symbolizing the biblical prophecy of peace and reconciliation. The lion, representing Christ resurrected, while the lamb, symbolizing His sacrifice, will be portrayed with a gentle demeanor. The composition will emphasize the juxtaposition of these two creatures, illustrating the harmony and balance between what we see to be opposing forces. The purpose of the illustration is twofold: firstly, to visually communicate the theme and message of the band’s album, which draws inspiration from biblical imagery and conveys a message of hope, reconciliation, and unity. Secondly, the illustration aims to intrigue and captivate viewers, drawing them in with its striking imagery and prompting curiosity about the song’s content and message. The illustration was created using colored pencils on paper, allowing for rich color saturation and intricate detailing. The use of colored pencils as the original medium adds a tactile and organic quality to the artwork, enhancing its sense of authenticity. By bringing the biblical imagery of the lion and the lamb to life through a hand-drawn illustration, this project aims to create a visually compelling and thematically resonant artwork that serves as both an album cover and a promotional tool for the band’s upcoming release. Through its striking imagery and symbolic depth, the illustration seeks to engage viewers, provoke contemplation, and spark interest in the album’s message and meaning.

HAWAII

AFTER HOURS

Design Objective:

Create branding for a drive-in movie theatre. To create a drive-in entertainment destination.

Design Brief:

The design of Hawaii After Hours reflects a vibrant and laid-back atmosphere incorporating elements of Hawaiian culture and aesthetics into its branding. Colorful tropical motifs, surf-inspired graphics, and neon lighting create an inviting and festive ambiance, evoking the spirit of island life and celebration. Hawaii After Hours is a unique drive-in movie theater situated on Luau Island. The primary purpose of Hawaii After Hours is to cater to the recreational needs of young adults on weekends, offering them a dynamic and memorable entertainment option. By showcasing a curated selection of beach-themed movies, hosting lively luau events, and providing the exhilarating experience of night surfing, the drive-in theater seeks to create a vibrant and inclusive social hub where young adults can gather, unwind, and immerse themselves in the island’s unique culture. Hawaii After Hours offers a diverse lineup of beach-themed movies, ranging from classic surf films to contemporary blockbusters set against the backdrop of stunning ocean vistas, providing audiences with a cinematic experience that captures the essence of island living. With its vibrant atmosphere, diverse programming, and captivating design, the drive-in theater promises to be a memorable and cherished addition to the island’s cultural landscape.

PHOENIX AIRLINES

To create a memorable and seamless travel experience tailored specifically for middleclass passengers seeking international flights. By prioritizing affordability, comfort, and convenience, the aim is to redefine the standards of air travel and provide accessible yet premium services to its targeted audience. The design should reflect the brand’s identity as a modern, reliable, and customer-centric airline.

Phoenix Airlines embodies the spirit of resilience offering travelers a seamless journey to destinations worldwide.”Phoenix Airlines,” symbolizes strength and elegance. The color palette of black and maroon exudes sophistication reflecting the airline’s commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction. The logo incorporates a stylized phoenix bird, its wings gracefully extending from both tips of the letter “X.” Between the wings, a flame motif. This airline caters to the discerning traveler seeking quality service, comfort, and reliability at an affordable price. The airline’s target audience primarily consists of middleclass individuals and families looking for international flight options that offer a balance of affordability and luxury. Whether traveling for business or leisure, Phoenix Airlines aims to provide a memorable and stress-free travel experience for passengers of all backgrounds and preferences. Phoenix Airlines’ brand identity is characterized by its commitment to excellence and a customer-centric approach. We offer a range of services and amenities designed to enhance the travel experience for passengers. From comfortable seating and attentive customer service, the airline strives to provide an enjoyable journey from start to finish. Phoenix Airlines is poised to redefine the air travel experience, offering passengers a combination of affordability and reliability.

-Not being on time -Charging extra for carry on

ADVENTUROUS

-Free neck pillows

“To provide my children with the best life and experience there is to offer”

Despite the challenges of being a single mom, Chelsey never let it stop her from pursuing her passion for traveling. She is determined to show her children the world and create memories that will last a lifetime. Chelsey’s love for adventure has taken her and her kids to many exciting destinations, including Paris, Tokyo, and Rio de Janeiro. They love exploring new cultures, trying new foods, and learning about history. Chelsey is a firm believer in the idea that travel is good for the mind and enriches the soul.

MOTIVATION-

-Airport employees can be rude and unprofessional

HONORABLE

“To give back and to be someone everyone can count on.”

-A convenient, seamless and efficient experience

BIO-

George has managed to build a successful career and reputation for himself in the business world. Throughout his journey, he has learned to adapt to different cultures and business practices, making him a versatile and well-rounded individual. Despite his hectic schedule, George has also found time to get back to the community. He is an active philanthropist, supporting various causes and charities that align with his values. He loves what he does, and is passionate about making a difference in the world through his work.

CHELSEY

LEMON TEE SCREEN PRINT

Design Objective:

Create a visually striking and culturally relevant t-shirt design that resonates with the target audience, aligning with their interests and preferences while showcasing creativity and originality.

Design Brief:

This t-shirt screen printing project draws inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Italy, capturing the essence of old-world charm and Mediterranean vibrancy. Utilizing a color palette of white, black, and yellow, along with iconic Italian motifs such as checkered patterns, lemons, and a statue of a torso, the project aims to evoke a sense of nostalgia and sophistication reminiscent of classic Italian aesthetics. This project embraces a vintage-inspired aesthetic that pays homage to Italy’s rich artistic and architectural heritage, incorporating clean lines, elegant typography of a variety of languages, and intricate details. It balances bold graphic elements with delicate textures and subtle shading to create depth and dimensionality within the design. The overall composition is visually striking yet harmonious, with each element contributing to a cohesive and captivating narrative.

MAVERICKS POSTER SCREEN PRINT

Design Objective:

Design an engaging and informative poster that effectively communicates key messages or promotes an event, product, or cause, utilizing bold visuals and concise copy to capture attention and inspire action.

Design Brief:

This screen printing project is inspired by the surfing movie “Chasing Mavericks” and aims to capture the thrilling energy of big wave surfing while incorporating iconic elements from the film. The poster will utilize a color palette of white, black, blue, and red to evoke the dynamic nature of the ocean and surfing culture, complemented by imagery such as waves, skulls, fish bones, and other symbolic elements. Additionally, the poster will feature signage that reads “San Francisco,” “The Big One,” and “Chasing Mavericks,” highlighting the film’s setting and title. The poster’s design aesthetic is bold, dynamic, and cinematic, incorporating striking visuals and typography to captivate viewers’ attention and convey the exhilarating spirit of big wave surfing. The composition will balance imagery and text to create a visually compelling narrative that draws viewers into the world of Mavericks and the challenges faced by those who dare to ride its waves.

PARADOX

Design Objective:

To encapsulate the raw energy, resilience, and unapologetic thrill of skateboarding culture. Through a striking and evocative visual narrative of animal skulls integrated into the deck designs, the goal is to convey the idea that, like the animal kingdom’s most tenacious survivors, skateboarders embrace risk and adventure without hesitation. These decks will serve as both functional skateboards and artistic expressions, encouraging skaters to embrace their passions, conquer challenges, and break through boundaries, much like the fearless creatures whose skulls inspire the artwork.

Design Brief:

The skate deck series revolves around the theme of animal skulls, fearlessness, and the exhilarating adventure of skateboarding. The series will comprise five unique deck designs, each meticulously crafted to embody the brand’s essence. The primary color scheme will be predominantly black and white, reflecting simplicity and boldness, with occasional pops of color to evoke excitement and individuality. These deck designs will seamlessly integrate the motifs of animal skulls, showcasing their intricate and striking features while celebrating the daring spirit of skateboarding.

o o o o

ETERNAL RELICS

Design Objective:

To create an innovative and memorable vending machine experience, providing travelers in airports with convenient access to high-quality souvenirs. The primary purpose of these vending machines is to offer travelers a unique opportunity to acquire personalized and memorable items that serve as souvenirs of their journey or thoughtful gifts for loved ones, enhancing their overall travel experience.

Design Brief:

Eternal Relics is a vending machine brand dedicated to providing unique and memorable souvenirs to travelers passing through airports. With a distinctive logo featuring the brand name alongside a tiki face holding a bone, Eternal Relics aims to evoke a sense of adventure, nostalgia, and cultural curiosity. The color scheme incorporates earthy tones like brown and green, evoking a sense of authenticity. Eternal Relics vending machines are strategically placed in airport terminals to offer travelers the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs. Specializing in dispensing t-shirts featuring destination-specific designs, the vending machines cater to travelers seeking a memento of their adventures or thoughtful gift for loved ones back home. Whether it’s a reminder of a memorable vacation or a heartfelt gesture, Eternal Relics aims to provide travelers with a convenient keepsake. Each vending machine offers a selection of t-shirts featuring designs inspired by the airport’s location or nearby landmarks. Eternal Relics aims to redefine the souvenir experience and inspire travelers to embrace the spirit of exploration wherever their travels may take them.

eternal relics

LAS VEGAS SINS

a major league soccer team for a city that lacks

where lights dazzle and entertainment reigns

The answer lies in the mythic aura surrounding the team’s mascot—the three-headed dog, Cerberus. In the realm of Greek mythology, Cerberus stands guard at the gates of the underworld, ensuring that only the worthy may enter and that the realm of the departed remains secure. The Sins draw inspiration from Cerberus, to embrace the notion of guardianship, strength, and a relentless spirit on the field. Las Vegas, often associated with its dynamic nightlife and the allure of the Strip, has long yearned for representation on the national soccer stage. In the absence of a Major League Soccer (MLS) team, the creation of the Sins is a testament to the city’s appetite for competitive soccer and the ambition to redefine the sporting landscape. The team aims to not only fill the void left by the absence of an MLS team but also to showcase the diverse and passionate soccer community that thrives in the heart of the Mojave Desert. The three heads of Cerberus symbolize the unity of purpose, commitment, and the unyielding spirit of Las Vegas. They carry with them the collective energy of a city that knows how to push boundaries, defy expectations, and emerge victorious against the odds. In a city known for its penchant for spectacle, the Las Vegas Sins aim to provide a unique and thrilling soccer experience that resonates with both locals and visitors alike. As the team dons the Cerberus-inspired crest, they embark on a journey to etch their name in the annals of soccer history, proving that in Las Vegas, even the underworld’s guardian can inspire a team to greatness. Welcome to the era of the Sins—a team that embodies the indomitable spirit of the desert, where soccer meets mythology, and victory is the sweetest of triumphs.

LAS VEGAS SINS

PLANTASEY

Design Objective:

Create a unique monthly, quarterly, or annual subscription box. The subscription should be produced with the month’s contents inside. The box should be interactive and contain the companies’ social handles. Create and populate these social media profiles with engaging content, and compile findings into a Digital Marketing Case Study. A website prototype should be created for the subscription boxes using your own images and multiple pages of content.

Design Brief:

Plantasey is a monthly subscription service offering curated plant boxes to bring joy and tranquility into homes and workplaces. Each month, subscribers receive a carefully selected assortment of indoor plants, accompanied by educational materials and care instructions, fostering a deeper connection with nature. The logo contains Plantasey’s type face along with a bird of paradise flower to convey luxury and quality. The objective is to provide subscribers with high-quality, diverse indoor plants suited to various environments and skill levels. To cultivate a sense of well-being and mindfulness through the joy of nurturing living plants. To educate and empower subscribers with comprehensive care instructions and plant-related resources. Lastly, to foster a sense of community among plant enthusiasts through online engagement and shared experiences. Plantasy caters to urban dwellers, plant lovers, and anyone seeking to enhance their living or working space with greenery. In the box, includes, the plant of choice, soil and seeds if one wishes to grow their own, and instructions on the care. Plantasy embodies a fusion of modernity, simplicity, and nature. Plantasy aims to enrich lives and spaces through the beauty and benefits of indoor plants. By delivering curated plant boxes with a focus on quality, education, and sustainability, we seek to inspire and empower individuals to cultivate their personal green oasis, one plant at a time.

rooting for you

Grantha Sangam Black

Scan to view Plantasey’s Digital Marketing Case Study

December 2023

JANUARY 2024