Armand King Keynote Live Illustration

illustration

May 2

CLIENT OVERVIEW

The Center For Schools And Communities hired me to illustrate their keynote speakers for the 2024 ELECT Conference, and event that brings together trauma-informed professionals who work with at-risk populations and supporting community and school partnerships.

Project Objectives

Armand King is a TEDx Speaker and Author renowned for his expertise in staff and youth development for at-risk individuals and re-entry populations. As a Program Design and Community Outreach Specialist, he crafts support systems to aid those reintegrating into society. Armand’s work is recognized in federal and state courts, making him a sought-after expert whose comprehensive approach significantly impacts communities.

The primary objective was to enhance audience engagement and create visual aids that would make his message more accessible and impactful for the audience. A key challenge was to handle the sensitive topic of translating skills and values from at-risk backgrounds to workplace settings accurately and without bias. Additionally, ensuring that the illustrations resonated with the diverse audience of the ELECT Conference required careful planning and technical execution.

Creative Strategy

Preparation was essential for a successful outcome. I worked closely with Armand King, meeting before the conference to discuss the presentation and plan the execution. This collaboration allowed us to develop a visual vocabulary and plan out sequences where my drawings would cue segments of his talk. Armand also shared his TED Talk to help me prepare.

Process

To ensure success, Armand and I conducted a run-through the day before the conference, working out any kinks and ensuring we were comfortable with the process. For the live event, I used pens, markers, and watercolor pencils, with a GoPro camera filming the drawings. The setup was directly connected to the venue's HDMI inputs, ensuring accurate projection of the illustrations for the audience.

Outcomes

The illustrations significantly enhanced Armand King's keynote presentation. Many attendees expressed their appreciation, noting how the visuals emphasized and clarified key points. The combination of Armand's animated speaking style and live illustrations created an engaging experience. Conference leaders were also pleased with the outcome, appreciating how the illustrations contributed to a more dynamic and impactful presentation.

Reflection and Key Takeaways

This project reinforced the importance of thorough preparation and collaboration before a live event. The pre-event planning and rehearsal with Armand King were crucial in ensuring a seamless integration of illustrations with his keynote speech. This experience has reinforced the value of investing time in planning and coordination, which is something I will continue to prioritize in future projects to ensure success and client satisfaction.