The Graphic Arts Education and Research Foundation (GAERF) has announced the launch of the GAERF 2018 Student Design Competition, themed “Dominate the Display!” This 10th annual contest challenges participants to combine their critical thinking and creativity to design and print an appealing and informational label for a fictitious product (of their choice) that showcases its unique brand and influences the decision to purchase.

Entries will be judged on their compelling and influential design, (fictitious) product and brand identification, fit to the product container, creativity and originality, and use of printing enhancements. One secondary and one post-secondary school winner will be identified for each of the first, second and third place awards.

The competition is open to all students attending secondary or post-secondary institutions in the continental United States who are studying in a graphic communications/ printing, advertising, graphic design or interactive media program. Entries selected by GAERF will be judged by a panel of industry professionals.

First place winners and their instructors will receive a two-day trip, all expenses paid, to attend PRINT 18 in Chicago, IL. The winning students will receive an award of $2,000 presented during PRINT 18’s Career Awareness Day, Tuesday, October 2, 2018. Second place winners will be awarded $1,500, and the third place winners will receive $1,000.

“GAERF is proud to continue its commitment to supporting education initiatives by encouraging creativity and self-expression in students through the art of design and production,” says NPES president Thayer Long. “This year’s competition, which centers on effective graphic design to inspire a product purchase, will serve to recognize our best and brightest students, as well as the significant commitment of their instructors.”