Buies Creek, N.C.—An effective poster design works on many levels—as a source of information, as a conversation starter and as advertisement. Campbell University senior Adam Fish appears to have mastered the process, taking first place in each of three contests advertising Campbell plays. Sponsored by the university’s Art and Theatre Arts departments, the annual design contest challenges students to work across disciplines and curriculum.
A native of Angier, Fish won for his designs for the musical “Pippin,” and the dramas “Voice of the Prairie” and “Betrayal.” “Pippin” is the story of a young prince’s quest to find personal significance. He traverses through war, love and politics before finding himself in the love of a commoner. “Betrayal,” a semi-autobiographical drama by Harold Pinter, is about an adulterous affair told from the man’s point of view, and “Voice of the Prairie,” is a heartwarming comedy about the early days of radio before sponsors and regulating agencies.
Fish, who is majoring in Studio Art and Graphic Design, said he researches the story before coming up with a design.
“The directors give a presentation to the class and this is where you get an initial impression of what they are after,” he said. “After a little research and throwing around of ideas, I get a gut feeling and just go with it.”
After graduation, Fish would like to work in film, graphic design and paint on the side. One of his primary goals is to do internship on a television show such as “Comedy Central” or “The Soup.” So far, he’s been offered an internship with the fast food chain of Chinese restaurants, Panda Express.
“I’m just going to see what happens,” he said.
Fish is also the recipient of a Fine Arts Scholarship presented annually by the Cape Fear Friends of the Fine Arts to students enrolled in each facet of the Fine Arts curriculum—music, theatre and art.
A total of nine Graphic Design students competed for three prizes, a poster, program and billboard. A $50 prize was offered for each category.
“This year I knew theatre would have a tough decision because I felt all of the participants were contenders,” said Daniel Rodgers, professor of Graphic Design. “But Adam Fish pulled a hat trick and grabbed first place with all three shows. Congratulations to Adam for a job well done.”
This is the 12th semester Graphic Design and Theatre Arts have collaborated on this competition.
Photo copy: Graphic Design senior Adam Fish displays his three winning poster competition entries. (Photo by Shannon Ryals)