Graphic Design students display their best work in Toronto

A mock-up of packaging for a fictional cupcake line called Crumbs, designed by third-year Graphic Design student Beth Chapleau, was featured at this year’s annual Graphic Design Grad Show. The show took place from April 11 to 26 at the Design Exchange in Toronto, Ont.

April 28, 2011

Nothing excites a student more than seeing a year’s worth of their best accomplishments right before their eyes. Graphic Design students at Durham College have the opportunity to experience that feeling every April when their work is displayed at the annual Graphic Design Grad Show. This year, the 16-day show began on April 11 and came to a close on April 26.

Third-year Graphic Design students submit their best projects for consideration at the show out of the 16 projects they are required to complete for assessment as part of their Portfolio Studies class, with professors selecting which pieces will be displayed at the show.

Second-year Graphic Design students also participate, designing marketing materials, helping to mount and set up the work being displayed and joining first-year students on a field trip to the show to check out the work of their peers.

Although the Graphic Design Grad Show is usually held at the 401 Richmond gallery in downtown Toronto, Ont. this year’s event was held at the Design Exchange, former home of the Toronto Stock Exchange.

Graduating student Beth Chapleau loved the new spot of choice. “The new location offered a lot more space, which was great,” she said. “Everyone had a chance to check out the work, catch up with teachers and network with familiar and new designers.”

Chapleau had 10 projects featured at the show including a few packaging projects and several mock-ups for a cupcake package she designed for a fictional brand called Crumbs. Her work has also been featured on several design blogs and she’s had many great opportunities throughout her three years at the college. Now that she’s officially finished her program, she’s looking forward to graduating in June and starting her career.

“I’m ready to tackle the real world now,” said Chapleau. “This show is a great way to showcase the work of students and it’s a good way to get your name out there.”