Annual Artists Competition
Nearly forty seniors at the Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD) received a senior project assignment: create a poster for the Columbus Food & Wine Affair (CFWA). After listening to event co-founders David Miller, Greg Maurer and Gail Baker share the history, mission and photos of the Grand Tasting, and the seniors went to work.
According to Maurer, “When we started the Columbus Food and Wine Affair in 2003, we took notice of how other cities doing similar of events incorporated the art community. We wanted to do something better. We have seen art and wine as a natural connection from day one.”
“Over the years, we have seen numerous presentations. The artists have to sell their project, explaining their thoughts, highlights, and themes.”
Richard Aschenbrand, Dean of Visual Communications at CCAD, says this type of process is an ideal teaching tool for students. “In projects like this, we want the clients to be involved. It gives the students a different perspective and the experience of what it will be like to create for someone—getting to know their specific needs and developing their ideas as an artist/graphic designer.”
Aschenbrand adds, “When the students present their projects, the client’s review is a very true situation. That is exactly what they will encounter in a job setting, so a project like this is helpful.” Aschenbrand says that CCAD is continually approached to take part in projects like this, so “we must be very selective in what we take on. Working with the Columbus Food & Wine Affair on the logo design was the caliber of project that was right for us.”
Maurer is also enthusiastic about the CFWA-CCAD partnership. “Since the Columbus Food & Wine Affair began, we have wanted to bring in a significant Columbus partner,” he says. “CCAD is an icon in our city, and the relationship between what we do and what they offer is a natural fit. We are looking forward to a continued association with them and showcasing new talent each year.”