Research
July 30, 2007Site 1: http://newark1.com/portfolio/index.html
Upon browsing through their immense portfolio, the sites have a very interesting layout. They’re very busy, but simple enough to drive the point home. I think this is an excellent example of layout design mastery, and I would love to incorporate this sense of style into my own site.
Site 2: http://kottke.org/portfolio/portfolio.html
I’m not a big fan of horizontal scrolling, but this site is an awesome, simplistic solution using just that. The whole thing is presented horizontally, and is very effective. I could definitely see some applicable use for this in my own design.
Site 3: http://anexio.com/newmedia-portfolio-snow.html
The layout of this site immediately reminded my of my initial portfolio site, just a little more graphic. It has a warm, cozy feel, kind of like you’re walking into someone’s home studio, and all you have to do is browse through his desk. I think that’s the concept designers should use in portfolio sites, and I plan on making mine that inviting.
Site 4: http://www.entheosweb.com/design_portfolio.asp
This site’s pieces display a wide variety of clients, and they’re all presented in rather simple, elegant ways. There’s not too much going on, but enough to show the professionalism of the respective products/services.
Site 5: http://www.scrubbles.net/portfolio.html
I saved the best for last. This site is EXACTLY what I have in mind. This is a perfect example of, in my opinion, the ideal graphic artist’s portfolio site. The design is mind-numbingly simple: His artwork does all the work. His individual portfolio pieces make this an awesome site, which makes this an excellent, no “BS” display.
For my project, I plan on mixing the simplicity of site 5 with the innovative layouts of site 1, and the “browse through my studio” feel of site 3. I’m sure the influence from site 5 will be the heaviest, though.
Sean, your site research is very consistent and even reflects your choice of blog theme. Stylish simplicity is difficult to make happen, but quality images usually takes over and makes it work. I sense your committment to this area and your research greatly adds to your journey. I really like your blending of 5 and 1 with some 3 tossed in. This will be a challenge, but you found good assets in each and now you make it your own. I look forward to seeing your site grow.
hey sean,
you picked some pretty cool websites, and i can totally see you doing something like site 5. I think that website would go with your personal style. i can’t wait to see what your comps look like.