Ethical Debate Over Presenting Conceptual Design Work as Real Projects
A design industry discussion emerged after a reader questioned whether a featured cannabis brand identity was actual client work. John Gilsenan of IWANT design reported clients hiring designers based on portfolios containing mostly conceptual projects. Design professionals debated the value of speculative work versus real commercial experience. Many agreed concept projects can demonstrate skills but must be clearly labeled to avoid misleading potential clients. The consensus emphasized honesty in portfolios, distinguishing between conceptual explorations and completed client assignments.
Key facts
- A reader raised ethical concerns about presenting conceptual design work as real client projects
- John Gilsenan of IWANT design reported clients hiring designers based on conceptual portfolios
- Design professionals debated whether concept work should be presented as real commercial experience
- Many agreed concept projects have value but must be clearly labeled as speculative
- The discussion concluded that portfolios should honestly distinguish between conceptual and client work
Entities
Artists
- John Gilsenan
- Bryson King
- Dan Poole
- Ollie Hirst
- Stepan Solodkov
- John Ball
- Lola Hoad
- Carlos Bocai
- Stephanie Jade Howe
- Paul Leon
Institutions
- IWANT design
- MiresBall
- Good Call Studio
- Base Design
- U037