Where I'm From: Inside my Mind
This project involved creating three posters inspired by 'Where Am I From' poems, including one of my own and a mix of others from class. Each poster approached the theme uniquely: the first poster explored text variation through font weights, the second aimed for a simplified flow of text, and the third sought to integrate parts of classmates' poems that resonated with the theme of my own.
Jan Tschichold: The New Typography
As a graphic design student tasked with creating marketing materials for a fictional upcoming exhibition featuring the works of Jan Tschichold, I turned to his own designs for inspiration. Drawing upon Tschichold’s expertise in poster design, I recreated his style while incorporating key details about the exhibition. The exhibition itself is aptly named after one of Tschichold’s renowned books, “The New Typography”, and my primary goal was to pay homage to his masterful use of text placement. By using his signature typeface for the body text in the accompanying booklet, I sought to create a cohesive aesthetic that would highlight the importance of his contributions to the field. Ultimately, I aimed to promote the exhibition in a way that was both visually striking and true to Tschichold’s legacy. I believe that through careful consideration of his design principles, I was able to effectively draw attention to the exhibit and create a cohesive, engaging experience for visitors.
Chicago Riverwalk
(Software Used: Vegas Pro)
In this brief, amusing, and somewhat educational video, Kevin playfully guides viewers through the wonders of the Chicago River Walk. Join him on a delightful stroll along the riverwalk as he introduces the audience to the beauty and charm of the Chicago River Walk.
Drawing in Pencil, Charcoal, and Ink
A collection of diverse drawings rendered in the classic mediums of Pencil, Charcoal, and Ink. Each piece offers a unique perspective, showcasing the versatility and expressive potential of these traditional techniques.
Billy Goat Tavern
(Software Used: Vegas Pro)
Explore the rich history of Chicago's iconic Billy Goat Tavern in this concise video. Kevin delves into the origins, weaving in tales of SNL and the notorious Curse of the Billy Goat, providing a brief and engaging glimpse into the tavern's storied past.
The Art Institute of Chicago
In Collaboration with Ross Dobbins, Sasha Taylor, Zebediah Cooley, and Dominic Atlas - (Software Used: Vegas Pro)
In this multi-segment video, Ross Dobbins, Sasha Taylor, Zebediah Cooley, Dominic Atlas, and Kevin Sobotka share their favorite parts of The Art Institute of Chicago. Each person narrated their section, with each segment being partly edited by the corresponding narrator. Additionally, Zebediah Cooley and Kevin Sobotka re-edited and cleaned up each segment before combining it into the final product.
Party Alarm Clock
This project aimed to create a Chindōgu (珍道具) product and produce a corresponding advertisement. The Party Alarm Clock, designed to wake users with vibrant lights, loud music, and bass, is a whimsical take on an everyday gadget. Chindōgu is the art of inventing clever everyday gadgets that seem like perfect solutions to specific problems, yet often bring about more challenges than they solve.
Seeing, Eating, and Hearing Icons
“Seeing, Eating, and Hearing Icons” is a class project that focuses on designing icons and building them into a cohesive family. The project includes the creation of a poster set, which utilizes the icons and typography to convey a message. The project began with three core icons, representing film, music, and food, which were then expanded upon to create a range of complementary icons that fit seamlessly together. The project showcases the ability to create a visual language that is both engaging and effective in communicating a message.
How To:
Organize Your Desktop (Organize Your Life)
In this project, I aimed to empower individuals to take control of their digital clutter by providing a comprehensive guide on organizing their desktops effectively. By developing a structured file organizing and naming system, users could alleviate stress and anxiety associated with a cluttered digital workspace while enhancing their productivity.
Album Mash-up: Capitol America
For my “Album Mashup” class project, I was given the vinyl album covers for Nancy Wilson’s “How Glad I Am” and America’s “Homecoming.” The project required me to scan both covers, inside and out, deconstruct all the imagery and typography, and create something entirely new. It was an exciting challenge to work with such different album covers and merge them into one cohesive design.
Mac and Photoshop: The Beginning of Technological Innovation Design
In Collaboration with Andres Rodriguez and Oscar Barajas Laguna
This project delved into the historical significance and technological evolution of graphic design, focusing on the pioneering role played by Macintosh computers and Adobe Photoshop software. Written by Kevin Sobotka and designed in collaboration with Andres Rodriguez and Oscar Barajas Laguna, our aim was to explore how these revolutionary tools shaped the landscape of graphic design and paved the way for modern advancements in the field. Employing thoughtful typography, color schemes, and layout design, we ensured that the visual elements harmonized with the textual content, inviting readers to engage deeply with the material. Our collaboration traced the transformative journey of Macintosh and Photoshop, inspiring a deeper appreciation for graphic design's enduring significance in the digital age.
IBM Plex Sans
(Software Used: Adobe After Effects)
In this 1-2 minute video project, the focus is on showcasing how the history and logo of IBM influenced the typeface. Showcasing a variety of weights and sizes of the font. I want to challenge myself by focusing on animating type to broaden my skill range. I want to incorporate the style of the original IBM computer era (the 1980s) when they had a monochrome screen and type-based interface. The video showcases the typeface using dynamic type animation.
Putin Poison
"Putin Poison" is a contemporary reinterpretation of Hugo Gellert's political cartoon "Poison," leveraging design as a means of social critique. Inspired by Gellert's condemnation of Benito Mussolini's far-right ideology, this project reimagines the iconic imagery to spotlight Vladimir Putin's toxic leadership, particularly amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Through digital illustration techniques reminiscent of lithography, Putin's likeness emerges from familiar bones, symbolizing the dangers of unchecked power. "Putin Poison" urges viewers to confront and oppose oppressive regimes, advocating for a world free from the poisonous influence of tyranny.
Advance Equipment 100 Years
(Software Used: Vegas Pro)
This video is a tribute to the rich 100-year legacy of Advance Equipment Manufacturing Company, tracing its origins back to 1922 in Chicago. Founded by August Wedekind, a visionary carpenter, and contractor, the company initially specialized in paste tables and boards. Over the years, it evolved into a powerhouse, expanding its product line to include an array of tools, from straight edges to drywall taping knives.
Trim-Tex "Why I Switched to Vinyl Corner Bead"
Juan describes the benefits of switching from metal corner beads to vinyl. The drywall contractor he works for made the switch because of the rising steel prices, leaving the door open for Trim-Tex's affordable vinyl beads. Juan embraces this change, highlighting efficiency, benefits, and cost-effectiveness.
Trim-Tex "Fire & Sound Gasket Case Study"
In the expansive retrofitting endeavor in Harrisburg, PA, Paramount Contracting sought an efficient solution for sound and fire caulk compliance. Opting for simplicity and speed, the perfect choices emerged in Trim-Tex's Fire Gasket and Sound Gasket.
Trim-Tex "Fast Edge® Paper Case Study"
In this Ponta Vedra Beach, FL custom home project, combating summertime moisture-induced cracks in finished drywall is paramount. Clay Drywall strategically addresses this challenge with Trim-Tex's Fast Edge® Paper,
Trim-Tex "Closed Angle Corner Bead Case Study"
In this Ponta Vedra Beach, FL custom home project, combating summertime moisture-induced cracks in finished drywall is paramount. Clay Drywall strategically addresses this challenge with Trim-Tex's Fast Edge® Paper.
Advance Equipment Drywall Finishing Station
This video highlights how the station functions as a versatile tool, wash, and mud filling station, seamlessly integrating into the workflow of contractors and DIY enthusiasts. With its one-piece fold-up design and convenient tool holder, the station enables users to keep their workspace organized and mobile, ultimately leading to increased efficiency and productivity. Demonstrating how this solution eliminates unnecessary trips, allowing users to focus on what truly matters - getting the job done faster and with precision.
Brand Identity: Golden Hours
For my class project, 'Brand Identity: Golden Hours,' I embarked on the creation of a fictional all-day breakfast fast-food establishment, drawing inspiration from 1960s NASA, vintage sci-fi, and the space race. Through collaborative efforts with stakeholders, I crafted a unique brand identity encompassing menus, uniforms, marketing materials, and even a fictional location. The project culminated in the development of a comprehensive brand guideline book, ensuring consistency in the brand's visual representation across all touchpoints. Golden Hours emerged as a beacon of innovation, blending nostalgia with futuristic elements to stand out in a competitive market.
Web Design: Arcade Mayhem
Arcade Mayhem is a dynamic web design project where I crafted an immersive online experience for a fictional arcade brand. Boasting a nostalgic aesthetic inspired by classic games like Asteroids, the website features three fully functional pages: Home, What's New, and Games. Through meticulous design and attention to detail, I aimed to capture the essence of retro gaming while delivering a user-friendly interface that immerses visitors in the excitement of Arcade Mayhem's virtual world.
Motion Graphics Studies
(Software Used: Adobe After Effects)
A compilation of diverse motion graphic explorations. Exploring various types, techniques and tools inside of Adobe After Effects. Some explorations such as typographic animation, 3D animation, 3D Lighting, and 3D camera movement.
Motion Graphics: Navigating Information
(Software Used: Adobe After Effects)
This project aimed at enhancing media literacy in the digital age. Through captivating animated visuals, this guide illuminates the crucial distinction between reliable sources and misinformation, empowering viewers to navigate the vast sea of information with confidence and discernment.
Experimental Typography: Unfolding Mysteries
The Unfolding Mysteries project delves into the enigmatic world of Agatha Christie's detectives through innovative typographic design. Drawing inspiration from the iconic voices of Hercule Poirot and Miss Jane Marple, this project meticulously curates excerpts from Christie's works, intertwining them with visually striking layouts that mirror the suspense and intricacy of her mysteries. Each word is meticulously arranged to mimic a detective's unraveling of a case, inviting viewers to engage in the textual puzzle. Through a blend of typography and storytelling, "Unfolding Mysteries" offers a unique exploration of Christie's timeless literary legacy.
Experimental Typography: Targets of Misinformation
"Targets of Misinformation" is an experimental typography project that delves into the critical issue of misinformation, particularly targeting right-leaning audiences in rural America. Through visually engaging content and in-depth analysis, this project aims to raise awareness about the proliferation of misinformation in the age of social media and AI, emphasizing the importance of media literacy in combating its harmful effects. By highlighting the sources, forms, and consequences of misinformation, the project advocates for informed dialogue and critical thinking to navigate today's information landscape effectively.
Publication Design: Pulling Strings
"Pulling Strings" was a magazine project focused on celebrating and promoting the art of puppetry. Its mission was to revive puppetry in the mainstream by exploring various puppetry styles, their rich history, and their promising future. Through engaging articles and captivating visuals, it aimed to inspire future puppeteers while rekindling the interest of those who grew up enchanted by puppets. By showcasing the diverse and multifaceted world of puppetry, it sought to challenge misconceptions and highlight its importance in fostering laughter, imagination, education, and meaningful discussions on important societal issues.
Trim-Tex "Drywall 101: Corner Bead Basics"
(Software Used: Adobe After Effects) - Filmed and Edited by Kevin Sobotka
The RHI guys take you through the corner bead basics, from why you need these drywall accessories in the first place to the variety of options you’ve got to protect a variety of corner angles.
Trim-Tex "Fast Edge® Roll" Announcement
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe After Effects) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
An announcement video introducing customers to the brand-new Fast Edge® Roll!
Trim-Tex "Jobsite Journals: Shadow & Reveal Beads"
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
In Libertyville, IL, a luxury custom home opted for a sophisticated drywall design featuring shadow edges along flush baseboards and door casings. Facing challenges with miter cutting beads for the shadow effect, Trim-Tex sales rep Noe Perez stepped in for a hands-on tutorial, ensuring a flawless finish by the skilled crew from Holden Services, Inc.
Trim-Tex "Expansion Bead Case Study"
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
The expansive Hudson’s Site development in downtown Detroit spans 1.5 million square feet across a city block. Balancing commercial and residential spaces, this project required code-compliant products that were fast to install, reliable, and flexible. Trim-Tex's Expansion beads perfectly addressed the project's diverse control/expansion joint needs.
Trim-Tex "Tear Away L Bead Testimonial"
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
In this modern Detroit high-rise featuring 500 units with floor-to-ceiling windows, precision is key. To complete the drywall work around these sizable windows, as well as modern elements like concrete columns and ceilings, the project demanded extensive use of Trim-Tex's Tear Away L Bead. Expert installation was crucial, demonstrated by the installation team at Service Drywall, ensuring a flawless result.
Trim-Tex "UC San Diego Testimonial"
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
UC San Diego’s Student Housing Phase 1 project included 1,800 new beds, with a substantial drywall finish using Trim-Tex products. Brian Murphy, from Murfin, praised the role of Trim-Tex’s tools and products in meeting the demands of this extensive project, ensuring quality finishes in both residential and common areas.
Web Design: Jacques Tati
A meticulously crafted webpage dedicated to exploring the illustrious filmography of the iconic French filmmaker Jacques Tati. With a sleek and user-friendly interface, the site offers a comprehensive journey through Tati's cinematic legacy, featuring in-depth information sourced from Criterion. From his pioneering works like "Mon Oncle" to his timeless classics such as "Playtime," this project aims to celebrate Tati's unique vision and influence in the world of cinema through engaging design and curated content.
Rebranding: Johnnies Beef
"Johnnies Beef Rebrand Project" is a dynamic endeavor focused on creating a digital footprint of the esteemed Johnnies Beef establishment, prominently located in Elmwood Park. By undertaking a comprehensive new website, this project aims to not only elevate Johnnies Beef's online presence but also highlight its rich legacy within the local community. Embracing the timeless charm of their traditional branding, the revamped website will seamlessly blend old-school aesthetics with modern functionality, creating an immersive online experience that resonates with both longtime patrons and new visitors alike. Through intuitive design elements and interactive features, the website will serve as a virtual gateway to Johnnies Beef's cherished culinary offerings and time-honored traditions, fostering deeper connections with patrons both near and far.
Drywall Master 30-Second Videos
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
The focus of this project was to captivating series of 30-second videos spotlighting Drywall Master's premier products, such as the automatic taper, corner rollers, master pump, and other essential tools. Through visually compelling demonstrations and concise product highlights, these videos will effectively communicate the superior performance and innovation behind Drywall Master's equipment.
Advance Equipment 30-Second Videos
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
The focus of this project was to make engaging 30-second videos highlighting the features and functionality of Advance Equipment's diverse range of products, including the banjo, Cool Grip Knife and Pan, Corner Bead applicator, and more; ffectively showcasing the superiority and versatility of Advance Equipment's offerings to potential customers."
Al's Taping Tools "Master Your Craft"
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
Two 15 second videos showcasing the many products that Al's Taping Tools sells. Spotlighting the extensive range of products offered by Al's Taping Tools, inviting viewers into the world of drywall.
Advertising: Reimagining Lego
"Advertising: Reimagining Lego" is a transformative project aimed at enhancing Lego's digital presence and strengthening its bond with diverse audiences. By launching a multifaceted advertising campaign, this initiative seeks to capture the imagination of children, parents, and adult fans of Lego alike.
Between Two Corner Beads
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro) - Filmed and Edited by Kevin Sobotka
"Between Two Corner Beads" is a lighthearted internal customer service video series, featuring Francis Walker, Head of Marketing, in a humorous host role. Watch as Francis interviews Trim-Tex employees, offering a witty take on the "Between Two Ferns" format while exploring the vital role of customer service within the company. This parody adds a touch of humor to discussions about the significance of exceptional customer service.
A Century of Advance Equipment
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
A updated version of the original 100 year anniversary video showcasing their rich history. Founded by August Wedekind, a visionary carpenter, and contractor, the company initially specialized in paste tables and boards. Advance Equipment continous to uphold their values and standards, continuing to create a wide array of tools, from straight edges to drywall taping knives.
Todays Garage Door Repair: I Gotta Guy!
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
This engaging promo for Today’s Garage Door Repair opens with the questions, "Got garage door problems?" and "Need a quick fix?" It quickly introduces the company as the solution, highlighting their experienced team affordable rates, and top-quality parts with smooth mechanical animations. The promo ends with a friendly reminder: "Tell your friends... I gotta guy," leaving viewers with a memorable call to action.
Advance Equipment Q1 2025 Social Media Posts
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
These videos highlight Advance Equipment's diverse product lineup, emphasizing precision, durability, and ease of use. Each video is designed to engage industry professionals and contractors by demonstrating the product and its benefits, and innovative features that improve efficiency on the job. With dynamic visuals and motion graphics, the content effectively communicates the quality, precision, and reliability of Advance Equipment’s tools.
Drywall Master Q1 2025 Social Media Posts
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
Drywall Master makes tools that outlast at prices contractors can afford. Their innovative drywall tools feature virtually interchangeable parts with other major brands, empowering contractors to own reliable, long-lasting equipment. These videos demonstrate how Drywall Master products streamline installation processes and enhance workflow efficiency, delivering dependable performance for professionals in construction and renovation.
Advance Equipment Q2 2025 Social Media Posts
(Software Used: Adobe Premiere Pro, Adobe After Effects) - Edited by Kevin Sobotka
The Q2 campaign presents a dynamic series of videos that explore the innovative edge of Advance Equipment’s offerings. Highlighting standout products such as the Cool Grip II Taping Knives, Blue Steel Cool Grip, Boomerang, and the Polypropylene Mixer. The videos showcase the superior design and enhanced performance of their tools, tailored for today’s demanding work environments.