This weekend, I met designers of a variety of backgrounds and levels of experience, I produced work under pressure, and I learned a few things about myself.

I participated in AIGA’s all-day Make-a-thon, where a small group of New Haven creatives assembled to brainstorm, ideate, refine, discuss, design, revise and present brand identities for local nonprofits. My team’s objective was to develop a visual brand system for a shoreline-based veterans’ support nonprofit, aiming to promote its peer-to-peer services and community events. Our members ranged from freshly out of college to having decades of experience and even teaching college courses - and I was inspired by what each person brought to the table, whether it was thoughtful questions, industry knowledge, or a positive attitude. Being around other designers was energizing, and I’m excited to continue to learn from my new network (and meet up with them for New Haven’s best lattes).

Over the course of the day, I sketched a dozen logo concepts, contributed to multiple design critiques, designed six letterheads (for three different brand directions), and provided general design support. It was definitely a challenge to pace myself effectively, but even to my own surprise, I felt satisfied with the level of work I managed to deliver. I believe I have a strength in generating multiple unique ideas, and simultaneously, I might benefit from narrowing my concepts down earlier to more quickly find a realistic direction.

I had a blast working with other creatives and getting to see the design process through their eyes. I’m feeling motivated and thankful after being a part of it!

Make-a-thon 2026

Danae Sawchyn | Portfolio