The objective of this project was to create a system of merchandise that followed a theme of our choice. This system had to include a skateboard deck design, stickers, and a T-shirt, as well as two more merchandise items of our choice.
I started this process by experimenting with ink drawings and sketches; I explored some Western motifs in my sketches, but I was most drawn to the sketches I did of stingrays. Between that and other ocean creatures or patterns, there was a lot of potential for designs that could be applied to lots of different avenues.
Next, I began working on digital versions of my more finalized ink drawings. I spent a little more time working out patterns in stingrays and orcas, as well as drafting some drawings for the skateboard decks. I decided to make two of these, with a day and night sort of concept.
Critiques helped me to generate some unique ideas for translating the illustrations to the digital layout of the boards. It was great getting to hear their suggestions on how to proceed with color; I made the black a deep navy blue, and filled the white space with a blue-green or blue-purple gradient, but very lightly to keep the contrast.
Another classmate also suggested a longboard design as a more beachy alternative to skateboards, which gave me a whole new idea for the direction of my merchandise. I ended up drawing inspiration from brands such as Billabong, Quiksilver, Roxy, and other surf labels as I moved forward.
After making digital versions of my ink illustrations, I began mocking them up and designing for products. I really enjoyed working from one concept to develop it into various artworks to fit with the merchandise items; the challenge pushed me to really think outside the box.
