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University of Winchester students were given a real-world brief when they were challenged to design a T-shirt to help promote a digital design agency.
Students from the Digital Media Design programme were given three weeks to complete the hands-on task by Danger Danger Studio based in Waterlooville.
Agency founder Jon Folkard and lead designer James Mankiewicz picked Sarah Deacon’s eye-catching design as the winner.
In addition to winning a £100 cash prize, Sarah will see her T-shirt printed and sold through Danger Danger’s online merchandise store.
Sarah explained that she took inspiration from Danger Danger’s website which she studied closely to ensure her design would align with the company’s branding and colour palette while giving it a new spin.
She added: “I was given the opportunity to discuss my illustrations with the agency's lead designer, get his opinions on my other work and industry advice. This competition and visit from Danger Danger were an insightful experience and a gave us view into the inner workings of design companies."
During their visit to the campus Jon and James reflected on their journey from independent freelancers to establishing a full creative practice. Their talk offered students an inside look at the realities of building a client base, managing workloads, and maintaining a thriving studio culture.
Working in design, illustration and animation, Danger Danger have worked with a number of big-name clients including UNICEF, Context Ridewear, the BBC, the National Youth Orchestra and Decca Music.
Students engaged directly with the team, asking questions about freelancing, project management, and creative decision-making.
“Working with emerging designers is important to us we see it as investing in the next generation of creative talent, the students were great with a lot of talent, we can’t wait to do it again.” said Jon Folkard.
Tina Scahill FRSA senior lecturer in Digital Media Design, said: “This partnership provides our students with authentic, industry-based opportunities that strengthen both their confidence and practical skill set.”
Pictured top: T-shirt design winner Sarah Deacon with founder Danger Danger Studio's founder Jon Folkard and lead designer James Mankiewicz.
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