Command X Conclusion

October 12, 2009 • 2:07 am • POSTED BY kdorsey

Wow, back in Philly, recovering from BBQ & information overload. Can’t believe how much we packed into a couple days in Memphis. So, I guess you’re wondering what happened with Command X—who won, etc. Well, I’m happy to report that Monina Velarde from Wheaton, IL is the new Command X champion!

The assignment was to make a statement about civil rights. Each one of the contestants had some sort of web component or online community built into their solutions. Ryan Fitzgibbon created a short film shot in black and white that was meant to inspire people to come together and share questions involving civil rights issues. An added element to his solution was a title card directing viewers to twitter to start the conversation. Search #startasking to see what the community has shared so far.

Alison Yard Medland created a guerilla marketing style campaign around the idea of taking risks and trust.

And, finally, Monina Velarde created a website for people to upload images involving civil rights issues, and a forum space to converse about these issues. A well-chosen photo with two protest signs that read: GAY IS THE NEW BLACK and LET MY MOMMIES MARRY really seemed to bring the conversation of civil rights out of history books and into the modern life civil rights issues we are facing right now. This image stuck with the judges and helped her to secure the win. I heard that Monina’s family drove down to see her present last night, I bet they’re very proud.

So, in conclusion, I’d like to congratulate to all of the Command X participants, let me assure you, this is just the beginning. I wish the best for you all and can’t wait to see the work your careers will hold.

I’ll post again with some overall conference hi-lights soon, but this is it for my Command X reporting. I hope AIGA continues with this program, it really is a conference favorite as well as an amazing opportunity for anyone so lucky as to be chosen to participate.