I don’t know how it happened. One thousand designs? I mean…I know I’ve been busy creating promo materials for “Surviving Sue” and posting on my personal blog – right here on Victoria Ponders and partnering with my writer friends on Sharing the Heart of the Matter but 1000 designs? Wow.
I took a gander and I’m glad I did. Scrolling through my Canva designs and then peeking at Instagram (which, by the way, if you’re not following us there, you should: @victoria.atkinsongroup and @the.heartofthe.matter) I took stock and came away with a couple of revelations.
My natural aesthetic is muted and monotone. (Hello, black turtleneck wearing friends!) Most of what I’ve designed related to “Surviving Sue” has been consistently framed in sepia-like neutrals. Color stories and themes matter to me – perhaps going back to my ancient history and my love of art history or my brief career as a Color Me Beautiful consultant (I’m not ashamed) in the 80’s. I know color…I have respect for color, but I don’t DO color unless I feel it’s necessary.
Which brings me to the observation about making graphics for friends. It’s been such a treat to have insider info and ‘advance peeks’ at my colleagues’ posts on Heart of the Matter. Writing which conveys vibrancy deserves an equally vibrant image for promo purposes.
As I scanned the colorways in the collage-like snips of some of those 1000 designs, I realized I enjoy color when I see a connection or an association. A means to align with and be in accord with the story the writer’s telling. I doubt I did it well most of the time, but I can see by scanning some of the images, I tried. Designs that I made for myself for Victoria Ponders have occasional color but they’re not my most recent creations and they’re not the images I love. Call me Mrs. Monotone. I’ll answer. I just know it. 😉
And the point? None really. I’m not looking for a congratulatory pat on the back, like the one that Canva sent. Talk about made-up and goofy ‘you’re a winner’ awards! But. Their ‘you done good‘ email slowed me down and made me think a little. No matter how silly, awards are rewards, aren’t they? Someone (or something in this case) noticed. I like it.
In honor of Academy Award Sunday, I happily accept this honor and I thank all of those who’ve trusted me to create teensy images to honor their words and the readers who clicked in and read. My privilege. Now where’s my swag bag? I’d like one of those – chock full of loot and freebies just like those the celebs receive.
Vicki 😎
P.S. If you’re wondering, you’re right. I hate the image Canva sent me — their “certificate” in baby blue hues. LOL!
Victoria Ponders 
Leave a comment