Computer Arts issue 158

2009… What does it have in store for you? Whatever your creative goals may be, this issue of Computer Arts will help you achieve them.

But before I explain how, I’ll start by pointing you to our cover. This issue’s striking artwork is somewhat of a departure from our regular cover design. We drafted in the undeniable talents of UK superstar illustrator Kate Moross to craft the cover from scratch. After art-directing the model shoot, Kate began work on flowing the type around the model in her inimitable style. The result is a collectable, ultra-cool cover from the hottest illustrator around. I hope you like it as much as I do. Thanks Kate, it was a pleasure.

On the subject of Kate Moross, if you take out a subscription to Computer Arts, you’ll get an exclusively-designed, limited-edition T-shirt by the illustrator (plus save a load of cash). Oh, and to say thanks to all of you who subscribe already, you’ll find a limited-edition print (the first in a series of four that you’ll receive) by Finnish illustrator Jesse Auersalo with this issue.

Anyhow, back to this issue. For this special edition of Computer Arts, we’ve taken our regular features and thrown them out the window, replacing them with a series of articles and tips that will help you to ‘Make 2009 your best year ever’. Whether you’re looking to go freelance; get your dream job at a studio; improve your portfolio; or improve your skills, we bring you a gaggle of advice from some of the industry’s leading designers and illustrators. To name but a few, this issue’s contributors include Mike Perry, MWM Graphics, Emily Forgot and Oh Yeah Studio, proving that Computer Arts continues to feature both established and upcoming design talent. And next month (on sale Thurs 12 Feb in the UK, and around three weeks later in the US) we speak to Neville Brody in our Design Icon interview – personally, I can’t wait for that. Cheers.

Rob Carney Editor

IN THE MAG

Output

Hand-drawn psychedelic
The new-wave of kaleidoscopic artists

Spaceknuckle
Josh Vanover’s subversive black and white creations

Studio of the Month
Behind the scenes at Ochee Socially Creative

In Depth

Make 2009 your best year ever
The opportunities to grab and skills to learn this year

Go freelance
The definitive guide to going it alone

Get your dream job
The experts’ take on how to bag the job of your dreams

Be more creative
How to keep your ideas fresh in 2009

Perfect portfolios
Tips and tricks to help you sell yourself professionally

Get bigger clients
Expert advice to get the best clients and budgets

Technique

Manipulate pace in Photoshop
Inject movement into your images

Model artwork made easy
Mix photographs and illustration

Animate DVD menus
Create a Flash DVD menu using animation and filters

Inspiration Workshop
Matt W Moore explains his signature style

Classic InDesign contact sheets
Wow your clients with effective presentation

Liquid CSS in Dreamweaver
Create intelligently expanding designs

Creative collages and mixed media
Make new artwork from old images in Photoshop

Brief Encounter
THIS IS Studio takes you backstage with Unkle

Need to Know

Dream monitors
Discover how a monitor upgrade will change the way you work

Make more money
Top tips on generating extra cash from your work

Adobe Configurator
Customise your apps and speed your workflow