The value of visual presentation is the focus of West Virginia State University’s (WVSU) next Creators Program workshop and lecture series event. Three of West Virginia’s premiere professional artists and illustrators will discuss the importance of polishing your visual creation – be it book, DVD or graphic novel – before publication Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 7:15-9 p.m. at the WVSU Economic Development Center (EDC) in Charleston. Josh Martin, Mark Wolfe and Brenda Pinnell will lead the discussion at the free event.
“The fact is, we do often judge a book by its cover,” said Danny Boyd, WVSU communications professor and artist in residence at the EDC. Boyd is also the author of a successful series of graphic novels. “Creating has become so easy and cheap, but creators don’t always put enough effort into the cover and overall design, which is everything to an audience’s first impression.”
Martin serves as Chair of WVSU’s Department of Art, as well as Assistant Professor and Gallery Director. His experience includes 3D animation and illustration, as well as web development, graphic design and identity consultation.
Wolfe is owner and operator of Mark Wolfe Designs in Charleston and has worked with clients for 20 years to visually brand or re-brand their company.
Award-winning designer Pinnell, owner of Hepcatz Design in Charleston, has worked on publications such as Print Magazine, been featured at Tamarack and was named Community Newspaper Holdings Inc. Designer of the Year in 2013.
The Creators Program launched in 2012 as a series of community workshops for all levels focusing on skills and knowledge essential to creating for mass media and art. WVSU partners with the West Virginia Economic Development Council and the West Virginia Film Office on the series.
Space is limited for the workshop, and registration is required. To register, visit www.wvsuedc.org and click on “The Creators Program” tab. The WVSU EDC is located at 1506 Kanawha Blvd. W. in Charleston.
