Federal Prize for Art Students
Description
The graphic concept and design for the 26th Federal Prize for Art Students, crafted by Manuel Bauer (Class of Prof. Dr. h.c. Patrick Thomas), Jonathan Körner (Class of Prof. Dr. h.c. Patrick Thomas), and Nicolai Zeiher (Class of Prof. Uli Cluss) from the State Academy of Fine Art Stuttgart. The design team produced the overall identity, including a catalog with six artist portfolios, a website, as well as promotional materials for an exhibition hosted at the Bundeskunsthalle Bonn.
Central to the design are the artworks of the awarded artists, presented in stacks that evoke the concept of art portfolios being carried across the campus. Given the prize's emphasis on highlighting the portfolios of emerging student artists, our approach aimed to seamlessly integrate this theme into the overall identity. We accomplished this by overlaying artworks and incorporating a typeface with a handwritten ductus, striking a balance between a contemporary aesthetic and a personalized touch.
The catalog features a slipcase crafted from brown cardboard material, secured with an integrated magnet strip for a seamless closure. Inside, six artist portfolios are presented, offering insights into their biographies, diverse works through imagery, and accompanying texts about their artistic endeavors. Additionally, each individual catalog incorporates a built-in pocket that houses five postcards, providing a tangible and interactive experience akin to exploring a genuine artist portfolio.
