So You Want to Embrace the Corporate Memphis? A Tongue-in-Cheek Guide
Ah, the corporate Memphis. The art style that screams "fun and funky" while simultaneously whispering "efficiency targets" in your ear. It's everywhere these days, from your favorite social media app's loading screen to that explainer video for a new toothpaste (because apparently, minty freshness needs some pizazz). But have you ever felt a stirring within yourself, a primal urge to grab a pen and say, "I too can conquer the world of geometric joy!" Well, my friend, fret no more! This guide will turn you from cubicle drone to corporate Memphis maestro in five easy-ish steps.
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| How To Draw Corporate Memphis |
1. Shapes: Your New Best Friends (and Worst Enemies)
Forget squiggly lines and whimsical doodles. Here, it's all about bold, geometric shapes. Circles, squares, triangles – they're the building blocks of your corporate Memphis masterpiece. But beware the dreaded freehand! A wobbly line can shatter the illusion of effortless cool faster than you can say "stock photo."
Pro Tip: Rulers are your friends. Embrace the grid!
2. Color Palettes: A Rainbow... But Not Too Rainbow-y
Gone are the days of clashing neons and eye-watering brights. Corporate Memphis prefers a more sophisticated (read: slightly muted) palette. Think teals that wouldn't scare a corporate lawyer, mustards that yearn for spreadsheets, and pinks that aspire to be the next power suit.
QuickTip: Don’t ignore the small print.
But wait, there's more! Don't be afraid to throw in a pop of something unexpected. A splash of fuchsia here, a dash of turquoise there – just enough to keep things interesting (but not too interesting, you rebel you).
3. Embrace the Pattern, But Not Like Your Grandma's Wallpaper
Patterns are the heart and soul of corporate Memphis. Think squiggles that look suspiciously like they escaped a 1980s Trapper Keeper, animal prints that would make a lion do a double-take, and grids that would make Mondrian proud (but with a slightly less existential vibe).
Remember: Layering is key! Don't be shy about stacking patterns on top of each other like a glorious, geometric mille-feuille.
QuickTip: Skim fast, then return for detail.
4. Characters? Optional, But Playful is Always a Plus
While the focus is on the shapes and patterns, feel free to throw in a character or two for good measure. Think stick figures with oversized limbs, animals with impossibly cheerful expressions, or even human body parts (hands holding phones, eyes looking at charts) – all rendered in the glorious blocky style, of course.
Just a heads-up: Keep the anatomy simple. We're not aiming for realism here, folks. This is the land of happy little accidents (as long as the "accident" doesn't involve accidentally drawing a nipple on your corporate mascot).
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5. The Final Touches: Because Details Matter (Even When They Don't)
Once you have your basic shapes, patterns, and maybe a character or two, it's time to finesse your masterpiece. Here are some finishing touches to elevate your work from "meh" to "meeting room must-have":
QuickTip: If you skimmed, go back for detail.
- Drop shadows: Because everything looks cooler with a subtle shadow, even a giant hand holding a phone.
- Gradients: Add a touch of depth with a subtle gradient on your shapes. Just don't go overboard – this isn't a rave flyer, it's a presentation on synergy.
- Whiten those lines!: Give your artwork a crisp, clean finish by giving those outlines a healthy dose of white.
And voila! You've conquered the corporate Memphis. Now go forth and spread your geometric joy (but remember, keep it professional)!
FAQ: Corporate Memphis for the Clueless
How to make the lines perfectly straight?
QuickTip: Re-reading helps retention.
- Embrace the power of rulers and digital tools like the "line" tool. Your freehand skills can take a vacation on this one.
How to pick the "right" colors?
- Think muted tones with a pop of unexpectedness. Think "adult playtime," not "toddler's playroom."
How many patterns are too many?
- As long as your eyes don't bleed and your colleagues can still understand the message, you're probably good.
How to avoid making it look like a child drew it?
- Keep the shapes clean, the lines straight, and the characters simple (think stick figures with extra limbs).
How to convince my boss this is a good idea?
- Focus on the keywords: "engaging," "visually appealing," and "increased brand recognition." Maybe downplay
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