The Art Of Tea

I love to drink tea, of all kinds, and I especially adore the packaging that comes with it. I will be analyzing the culture of ‘tea’ in the modern day and what our thoughts are on the this little ritual.

The History

Did you now the Tea is one of the oldest forms of beverages to this day, with India being the largest tea drinking nation. It dates back to around 2737BC  (that 5000 years ago), in China when a young ruler, Emperor Shen Nung, made it essential that water was to be boiled as a hygienic precaution. Yet, when the Emperor ventured to one of his distant empires, he stopped for rest. As his servants boiled the water, a leaf from a nearby bush dropped into the it and infused to a brown liquid. Curious, he sipped from the cup and discovered that it was surprisingly refreshing.

The Art

Tea has become a huge part of all different cultures from all around the world, I can tell you I can’t go a day with a cup of tea, but maybe that’s because I’m English. Tea is drunk for many different reasons, such as health benefits, religion, ceremonies, social events or just wanting boost!

Below are just a few teas which are designed around the packaging, unique to it form and tasty at the same time.

Green Berry tea

Arcadia Tea

Blooming Tea

Unique Ways To Portray Website Projects In Your Portfolio

This is a tricky one, some people will just send a link to the sites they have designed, others will print out flat pages of the website and some will just give a interactive flash file with a mock up of the site.

I would say all these methods are good.  As I mention in the packaging section play with the composition think of ways to give your work all the credit it deserves.  Below are some examples that might inspire you!

• Check out Graphic River, you can buy templates to apply your website to.

Web Display

Web Layout

Presenting A Packaging Project In Your Portfolio

Here are some tips and tricks on how to get your packaging project looking amazing!

Ok, you have just finish a project involving packaging, your thinking “How can I make this look cool in my portfolio?”.  Your probably thinking to take a photo of your finished master piece, I agree this a great way to show your packaging work, but I have seen so many designers take the pictures on their home digital camera! DON’T! I suggest you go the extra mile with these points to make your project look slick and professional.

• Hire a professional photographer to take the photos for you, he will correct the lighting, perspective and concepts for you and the finished result will look fantastic!

• If you are a wizz with programes like ’3D Studio Max’ visual 3D mock up of your packaging. The great thing about using sofware like this is that you can play with lighing, perspective and compositions until your hearts content.

• Think about your layout. If you only have one or two packaging projects to show place them in the middle of your portfolio. Like any piece of work,  if they are your best projects to date put them at the beginning and end. How ever if there not your best but you want to show the varaity of your skills place around the middle of your portfolio.

Note: If your on a budget find a photography student who is look for a little extra work.

Drinks Packaging

Evian Water

Peared Company

Tea Forte