# data[].attributes.body
Here are my two final outcomes. However, I would want to put the football story forward to Anorak

# data[].attributes.body
I put my artwork in the dimensions required and then decided to create some prototypes to see what it would look like in an actual magazine. This also allowed me to make sure I left a substantial amount of space for the gutter so no key information would get lost in it.

# data[].attributes.body
The feedback was super helpful to amend small details that I could do just before fitting it into a final illustrator file that fit the dimensions required. It also helped me visualise on what it would look like as a book by making sure I kept the important information out of the edges (bleed) and the middle (gutter) clear.

# data[].attributes.body
Once I had refined my design I went into illustrator to fit my work into the dimensions required and then decided to create some prototypes on photoshop to see what it would look like in an actual magazine. This also allowed me to make sure I left a substantial amount of space for the gutter so no key information would get lost in it. I really liked the outcome and seeing it in a book that’s full of colour and life reflects a book I would’ve enjoyed seeing as a kid and could see Anorak’s audience enjoying too. During this project I learnt so much from a technical point of view to also learning the importance of iterations. Having crit sessions really allowed me to push my ideas and not feel stagnant on one idea, but to push myself by constantly retrying and reshaping my ideas. The smallest changes like colour really have a major impact on the overall piece. I think I connected so much with this project as it felt like I could tap into my inner child making unrealistic imaginative designs by dressing up ants. I also think the brand and its core values were very refreshing to see as they really push creativity and allow you to explore your ideas in whichever way you please. Throughout this process I have been adding and taking away parts, really dissecting key elements like perspective and how it affects the viewers understanding. I also had to consider the relationship that text has with imagery and finding ways to make sure they compliment each other. This was key especially as the page layout restrictions like the gutter influenced the way I laid out key characters and text. Looking back I wish I had more time to print more versions to fully test the different ways colours print. I also wish I could of developed this story by incorporating other scenes to build up the game. I later on thought about how I could of shown the ants training in the gym for the match giving the characters some more backstory. Overall, I am really proud of this outcome and tried to incorporate and develop feedback like colour palette and background imagery, which I think were key to developing this final image. I am also really happy with the sticker effect created by the white border where I used a gauche pen tool to create this fuzz texture around them which people also seem to really appreciate.

I found the research parts of the project fundamental as they really gave me inspiration to create ideas when I was blocked. I also found drawing silhouettes of ants using shapes helped me when creating my characters and using random techniques let me to these final images

# data[].attributes.body
I also created a prototype with the new and updated version of the second story. It feels a lot more formal and structural like a magazine however has the playfulness of the characters. The contrast feels like it could appeal to a wider audience both kids and adults which Anorak aim for both.

# data[].attributes.body
One main comment I got from the client and my peers as feedback was about narrative and potentially using text to help the storyline. I initially wanted no text for this story but decided to explore it using speech bubbles and text to further illustrate what was going on highlighting the hungry angry queen waiting for food. I like this version and it feels like a more explorative way of following the story with the text complimenting it and breaking down the structure with the oval speech bubbles.

# data[].attributes.body
When I finished my second story outcome, I made sure to put it on illustrator to fit Anorak’s requirements and like my other story I created a prototype of what it would look like on a magazine. I found this process very useful as it further helped me visualise what the outcome would look like for a reader. Looking at the outcome of this story there is definitely a few changes I wish I had time to do as this felt slightly rushed due to my late understanding of the brief requirements. However, it didn’t stop me from trying to incorporate feedback to create a new outcome/ look. I still wanted to keep this story and develop it and find ways I can make it work with my other story. I did this by adding the characters from the other story, but similarly adding human legs to the football story. This meant there was elements of each other in them providing a link for them even if it was more subtle in other story. I think it was hard for me to switch my focus onto this story as I was so hyper focused on correcting and developing my other story I almost neglected this one. However, despite the barriers I still like this outcome and I think it provides a good basis to develop from later. I think I need to reconsider how small changes like adding text gives a lot more context for the viewer allowing them to be guided to the right direction. Once developed more I could see it in a magazine, I think the narrative needs to be explore more and I think this story could be benefitted by having another double page spread.

# data[].attributes.body
After deciding the title of the story, I chose a font which felt bubbly, friendly yet clear to read. I then played around with different sizes, placement and colours just to see what worked best.

# data[].attributes.body
The poem is short and sweet mentioning all the important roles and species of the ants. I made it short and somewhat obvious so that kids would understand the correlation, but also ultimately focus on the visual creating a story of their own of how the match day will go.

# data[].attributes.body
Once I had got the character designs and roles done and established, the next step was to create the text for the narrative. I wanted to leave this to the end so I could grab onto the visual elements for the story so that they would work as a unite together. I had though made sure I had considered text placement before when creating the background. I knew I wanted to make a poem that was short but fun and descriptive that included facts about ant roles and football so it was both fun but informative.

# data[].attributes.body
As the green ants were still a main issue against the green background I needed to find ways of making them one a different green but also differentiate them by giving them more details to take away from their green colour. I started to add more details to their uniform kit with red and yellow booking cards. I also liked the idea of steam coming out of their heads showing their feisty personality. As there was going to be three of them I thought of ways I could subtly differentiate them without creating a new character. I played around with facial hair to make them look amusing and more angry.

# data[].attributes.body
One thing that was made apparent was the different shades and variants of colours used. One colour would have various layers which added to the complex look making it feel messy and a reason why the background looked messy and lot to take in. My tutor suggested to look into looking at one colour for each background section using pressure to create shade and texture. This would help simplify the background bringing the focus back to the football pitch.

# data[].attributes.body
I loved the way my previous ant drawing inspired by Charlie and Lola made me feel and how it represented the look and illustrations I loved watching. I began to create characters using the gouache pen tool and thought about how each ant would represent each role in a football match. This would one make it feel more realistic to a football match, but two would also help explain how each ant has its own unique characteristics and roles. One way I was able to differentiate them was by size, layout/format and colour. I positioned the ants differently to make their boys shapes distinctively different from each other. At the same time I made sure to include colours that represented in real life like green ants and flying ants. However, I still made sure that each ant still looked like it was drawn within the same style by keeping the rough sketchy edges, thin arms and legs and expressive eyes and rosy cheeks to keep them in harmony.

# data[].attributes.body
I knew for the football match it needed to be fun and vibrant with a lot going on similar to an actual football match. I wanted it to feel immersive like the reader was part of the match and could feel the presence of the match day fixture. However, while I was bringing human football attributes, I still wanted it to remain natural to the ants. As a result I decided to set the football match in a park where it becomes a middle ground for both humans and ants as its an equal ground shared and respected by the two. I think it also adds to the fact its a special uncommon football match being celebrated, with big occasions why wouldn't they go out in the real life to play! I still hadn't thought about the context of the poem/ title, however I made sure to consider where and how it would fit in the page alongside the illustrations. I made sure to keep the space clearish for when I did incorporate the text. One thing I really enjoyed about my narrative workshop design was the interactiveness and how this football game feels interactive like chess as if you could move the characters to create your own game. One book I loved as a child was this Dora the Explorer book where you could place these reusable stickers around the book to finish stories. I decided to add a white boarder to the characters to give a sticker illusion where it feels like you could peel them off. It did also help separate them from the background and highlighting them bringing them forward with the highlighted white boarder. I think it worked well amongst the busy background which is a lot more detailed heavy in contrast to the more simplistic sketchy ant characters. I felt that from the examples of Anorak's past work that this concept and design hasn't been done which makes this feel more refreshing and exciting!

# data[].attributes.body
After doing the narrative workshop I started to think of how lines effect story narratives. I began to develop my second initial idea further by using tunnels as a guide line thats weaving the story to lead to the end to the all important queen. I think obvious attributes like this can help guide children into the right direction which is key when the visuals are what move the story.

# data[].attributes.body
I also began playing around with colours and what colour combinations worked well together and which contrasted well too. It felt like there was endless possibilities to choose from which was a bit overwhelming and like I was going nowhere! I stopped focusing on the actual colours and instead refined the designs. I did this because I actually didn't know where I would be using and putting these ants, therefore I didn't know whether the colours would work against certain backgrounds and colours which needed to work/ contrast so they remained a key focus to the story.

# data[].attributes.body
I started on creating some sketches of ants using various and materials. I wanted it to feel playful and sporadic by not being to precious with the way I drew them or the colours I used. I found it hard at first due to feeling pressure that I needed to of found my design that felt detailed but child like. I soon realised that ants were actually quite difficult to draw as it either felt to structured or too simple where it didn't look ant enough. Finding the balance was challenging and took a while to then decide what vibe and look I wanted for each storyline. I tried to go back to my original references for inspiration especially Bottle Top Bill, Charlier and Lola and Franny's Feet. Using them as referenced helped me bring out all my favourite things I enjoyed from watching them and the unique features which make them so different from other shows.

# data[].attributes.body
I was initially drawn to my second initial idea and wanted to start developing it. I began to add some basic colours just to get a gage on how it would look using organic colours making it feel like nature and their natural environment. However, my main aim was to do different variants to see how I could structure lay them out. This was important to do as I really wanted to see what would be the most effective in telling the story and what flowed better for the reader, especially as I didn't want to include text.

# data[].attributes.body
I tried colouring the original ants while using the white boarder, but it still felt to distant from the other story.

# data[].attributes.body
This image prototype has not texture which leaves the colours to be true to my screen showing much bolder and brighter. I again like this version and find it very fitting for children.

# data[].attributes.body
Here is the feedback I received from my classmate Jess. The key points of improvements which could be made was the green ants. She suggested creating a more yellow toned green to get it distanced from the deeper greens. She also commented on certain colour choices and how the yellow stripes could be confused with bees. She also mentioned the text font being garring and not working alongside the title suggesting to find a font that reflects the title. This made me consider looking for fonts that were rounder on the edges and softer looking. I hadn't really considered this texts font and picked a basic font so that it was clear and easy to read, but I hadn't thought of the visual effect it has amongst the rest of the story. Jess also highlighted parts she liked that were parts where I made a decision to include which felt somewhat validating that I made the right decision. This includes the perspective of looking down at this tiny game of football and how interactive it looks with the white boarders posing as stickers. It was also the first time someone new who didn't know my ideas read the poem and it make sense and see it working cohesively.

# data[].attributes.body
Client feedback

# data[].attributes.body
In this version I changed the setting in photoshop to give it more of a print texture finish to it. I really like how it feels like a print but still holding the vibrants colours that aren’t too in your face. I really like the look and could genuinely see it as a story in a children’s magazine. I think the title placement could be a bit lower and smaller, however I like how most of the space is used and considered to fill the whole page

# data[].attributes.body
I wanted to create one more potential story idea just as a way to visualise as many layouts and storylines as possible to see what is most effective. This was the one I liked the least, but it was a more theatrical way of presenting ants. It shows a vintage, backstage performance esc scene with mirror frames showing the different breeds of ants. The ants are also humanised with funky glasses which come with a description and a story on the page to describe a scene/ performance. I like this idea as I find it fun, however not as fun visually to explore for children unlike the others.

# data[].attributes.body
For my second idea I wanted to create a story that was more of a journey showing life from an ants perspective. I also wanted to play about with the layout and structure of story using storyboard squares to help develop later. The story starts by showing kids eating lunch, a common concept, however it shows the journey of the bread crumb falling into the grass and increasing in size in comparison to the ant. It also gives the viewer and insight of what their underground (ant farm) looks like. I made sure to create fun rooms with different patterns and keeping the page full of life and colour while making it somewhat realistic. I also was thinking that it could take over most of the space, which is why the visuals need to be clear so that it can stand as a story on its own. It also could be a reflection of society of hierarchies and capitalism even in the world of ants with workers working for the queen. It also could help people understand how their actions in the everyday can effect others especially the environment and ecosystems.

# data[].attributes.body
For my first idea I thought I would include something that I enjoy and most kids enjoy together with ants. I love watching football and I know how impactful it can be for building relationships and a community where people feel united. This is a part of football which I enjoy being a part of and love to explore. I thought about illustrating a story of a fun football match that shows all type of ants coming together for one big game. I wanted it to be within nature humanising the ants to play football at the park and make it feel some what realistic. One way which I believe could do this was by adding details such as referee tops, traditional football scarfs, banners etc. I wanted the viewer to explore all of the details on the page and scan the page from each corner so they discover something new wherever they look. I thought this could be enhanced by purposely giving each ant species a role within the match similar to what they have in their society which would have the information and educational side to the story that isn’t too in someones face of information. I wanted green ants as referees to show the correlation of feistiness within both and the queen ant being at the centre of the ants (almost like gladiators performing for her entertainment). I also knew that the text part would further enhance and explain the narrative allowing the roles to be clearer for readers. I wanted it to be a short story or a poem which would be fun and catchy and work cohesively with the illustrations rather than one relying on the other.

# data[].attributes.body
One thing I was unsure on was what style of art I wanted to do. I decided to experiment freely drawing all ants in all kinds of styles to see what I liked before committing to one look. This was a key part to me developing onwards as I wanted to keep my drawings playful and fun so that it would be interesting and digestible for children. I also tried different colours, mediums and perspectives to both capture the complexity of ants and the simplicity of these small inspects from a human and microscopical view.

# data[].attributes.body
In order to start the project and create a story with visuals, I thought it would be important to research competitors. I wanted to see what the current market of children’s magazines and stories in books were like these days. This was especially important as the creator of Anorak created it as she didn't like the over use of princesses and dinosaurs in magazines. I went to my local supermarket, Sainsbury's as well as TkMax and used my own old collection. I found that magazines in particular were very repetitive with only maybe one being educational and creative. However, the books were a lot more fitting with the majority humanising either animals or objects which I found interesting and something I could incorporate to the theme of ants which I wanted to pick. The colours of books were a lot evident and unique with a wide range or artistic styles.

# data[].attributes.body
I began researching the portfolio of Anorak's and looking into different themed magazines. I made sure to look out for a vary of colours, layouts and styles of stories that they have published. This was key in order to gain inspiration and see how Anorak really do allow the designers to be as creative as they want to be.

# data[].attributes.body
I changed the boarder and added a simplistic structured title. I almost like the contrast of serious detailed drawings and title with the sketchy characters.

# data[].attributes.body
I also for fun wanted to see how it would work with another sport as if it was another scene. I like the different us in colours and texture with the net. I think it works well and would be a fun series that I could develop further changing backgrounds and even the inescts!

# data[].attributes.body
These were some key feedback notes I made from my tutorial with my tutor that I incorporated into my work/ findings. One key focus was the colour which I made an effort to use limited colours that were still vibrant. Another was finding ways to link both my stories together so that they both could stand as two stories of their own that were made by me.

# data[].attributes.body
This was my redesign of the green ant referee in a more yellow toned green.

# data[].attributes.body
I put the two versions of the Match Day Antics story as I was still conflicted on which one to put forward as my final piece. I do however wish I instead included my other story and got more feedback on the developments I did, but at this point I hadn't refined it yet where I was comfortable showing. Looking back though I could of got really. valuable feedback and asked questions on ways I could have refined it and linked the two further. I had tested the printing for the colour, but even with this the green ants colours were still not appearing as vibrant or different from the other greens which is something I had to keep going back to.

# data[].attributes.body
The ants have been let loose for a special match day. Let’s hope they play fair because if not the feisty stingy green ant referees will get angry. The crowd of flying ants go crazy buzzing around the blue sky while the players sprint around the pitch. The queen ant watches proudly as her worker ants work hard shooting for top bins. She grins as she waits to see who will be champion and bring in her winning supper!

# data[].attributes.body
Since I tried to link this story to the 'Match Day Antics' story, I thought I would try do the same to this one. I put in the same characters into the story. I like the outcome, but I don't love it and think removing the boarder and adding a title could help it feel less sketchy and for refined.

# data[].attributes.body
In my other story it shows the perspective moving from the human to the ants changing size. I really liked this as it felt immersive where you as a viewer can place yourself in. I wanted to try and see how effective this could be in the football story. The story already felt like you as a reader were watching down on the game, so I wanted to further enhance this to show the true size of ants and the game. I added feet which were cut off by the top of the page to make it feel like a giant for the ants but normal as a viewer almost like the BFG film. I really like this effect as it give it another element and shows how harmonious humans and nature can be/ interact together.

# data[].attributes.body
This was my attempt on creating a background with a limited colour palette. I focused on using pen pressure and the eraser to create shadows, depth and highlights.

# data[].attributes.body
I brought the characters back in to see how they contrasted against the colours. My main issue were still the green ants but it was key they were green to reflect their species. This is definitely still a work in progress which I need to test with printing to see how the greens show up.

# data[].attributes.body
I also had to consider the title and the effect it would have on the story. It needed to be catchy and short but informative so that it gave an insight of what the story would be. For this I researched football related words and phrases and clichés commonly used by pundits and the media as well as ant related words. From this I tried to combine the two through rhyming and word play. I had a few options but ultimately landed on 'Match Day Antics'. This title highlights the importance and wildness of this match with Antics being a play on for saying it is literally Ants within the story.

# data[].attributes.body
After having this discussion I wanted to see how this would work and if it would still look visually pleasing and detailed. I found this post on LinkedIn made by the creators of Anorak for their new Chew magazine. Their simple but bold colour palette worked really well with the black lines to add detail into them to give them more depth. I found this look really effective.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Cliches are expressions or sayings that have become so overused that they have lost some of their original impact. In football, cliches are used quite a lot and they are often associated with the emotional aspect of the game. Sometimes the meaning is clear or extremely obvious, e.g. football is a game of two halves but more often than not the original meaning of a cliche is often difficult to understand. Why, for example, are parrots sick? How can a player give 110% when 100% surely is the maximum? And why does a victory send players and managers over the moon?

Many feel that the overuse of cliches demonstrates the fact that football players, managers, fans, commentators and pundits have a poor vocabulary and are lacking in imagination. However, cliches form part of the football discourse and though there is often no logical explanation to their meaning, they do provide some colour and humour for the football world.

If you hear any other cliches then let us know by posting a comment here. It will, to paraphrase the great manager, Brian Clough, only take a second.

Latest Football Cliches

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What is a cliche and why are they so common in football? This page lists some of the more popular football cliches used by players...

# data[].attributes.body
https://www.bubbleactive.com/blog-news/football-cliches

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Bubble Active | Part of Funktion Leisure Ltd.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Bubble Active | Part of Funktion Leisure Ltd.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Best Football Clichés | Funny Sayings | Bubble Active

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
From a “win is a win” to “take it one game at a time”, this guide gives you an extensive list of popular football clichés, sayings and classics. Browse here…

# data[].attributes.body
The colour palette was a main issue I was facing as I needed to narrow down the background colours and make them a lot more flatter, but add detail to the characters. I narrowed it down two 5 main colours: Green, Blue, Yellow, Pink and Brown.

# data[].attributes.body
Without over doing the details I though I could make the other team have different facial expressions using eyebrows to express this. I also added sweatbands and wristbands to create differences in the team. I found these developments and changes really fun which the iterations workshop helped me develop further. It was also a really nice way to pull in details from sports into these ants.

# data[].attributes.body
I really wanted to play with more colour especially since simplifying the background. I found that I could add more colours, details and texture to the characters as they were the focal points. I tested different ways to brighten these ants with tones of blues and contrasting oranges.

# data[].attributes.body
I really enjoyed the use of the headbands on the ants and wanted to play into this more. I tested using different hair styles and colours which I found really fun and cute. I also liked the thought that maybe kids will be able to see themselves in these ants through the hair styles. It gave the work another layer of information for the viewer to explore and dive into the piece.

# data[].attributes.body
I also found my original ant drawing a little dull and that the colour blocked the ants personality not coming out as fun or as expressive. I began to use brighter colours with contrast, while also using sports gear to them humanising the ants. I found that the yellow stripes made people think of bees, however I really liked the contrast and found that within the piece of work alongside the ants it would fit in better and become more obvious.

# data[].attributes.body
I initially wasn't to sure with the colour of the queen, however I did want to keep her neutral looking as if she's the peoples princess too. This meant not making her too one sided with colour. I tried using other vibrant colours but thought it would be best to leave her a neutral and natural colour and instead add colour through other details. I wanted her to look important, expensive and rich like true queen. I researched things that royals wear alongside the crown. I made variants adding more and ones with less. However, I think with the queen more is more and added a cape with a bow tie and gem stone wand. This not only made her feel important and special but also the day. It showcases the fact that football match is such a unique and special day that she's come out in her special attire for a special appearance.

# data[].attributes.body
I still wanted to add another element to it so I tried a traditional lamp post. I added it to the side of the page so it wasn't put at the centre of the page, but fitted into the scene subtly which I wanted to feel more natural. I also liked the light effect with it glowing which gives a warmth to it that I like.

# data[].attributes.body
To further investigate all possibilities, I took the previous version and saw what it would look like with more details. I added a park bench which I thought would fit into the park scene, but I think adding this other shade of brown felt unnatural amongst the rest. It also stood alone with the interaction from the ants which made it felt irrelevant and unnecessary.

# data[].attributes.body
I went back and completely simplified the ideas by just incorporating trees and bushes leaving plenty of black space for the text to be placed. I instantly preferred this version as it felt much more natural and realistic. This version felt like something I could work on and add details if I wanted to. This version feels cleaner and easier to read and view as a reader.

# data[].attributes.body
I reverted back to the park idea, but having less in the background, but still incorporating things to show perspective and size. I used greenery to frame the page while including a park play area further back. Again, it didn't add anything and almost draws your eyes away from the game and to the centre of the play area.

# data[].attributes.body
I thought that at this stage I could further emphasise and refine my characters to fit their roles in the football match. I added football scarfs for both teams showing which side the flying ants are part of which I could dot around the spread.

# data[].attributes.body
I tried using fences to break the background and using it to represent someones garden to make it feel like the ants football match could be in your garden. Similarly to the one before it didn't add anything to the story or characters and flattens them.

# data[].attributes.body
I began testing different backgrounds which were either simpler or involved different colours to green to break the pitch away from the background. I also thought of new ways I could represent football in it. This example is a training ground with barrier wall. I like the way the focus is closed on in the pitch, however the orange feels too overpowering, but yet the idea and design feels simplistic and boring. It almost dulled down the idea and fun of it.