When life gives you lemons, design a tea carton!

The astronaut design made it into the finals.

A few months ago, I took a shot at something a little different from my usual style of art. The Turner’s Iced Tea cARTon design contest popped up on my Instagram feed, and it looked like a fun challenge because I’ve been trying to work on more digital art. So I started brainstorming ideas.

I experimented with a lot of ideas before landing on the concepts I submitted. I wanted the design to feel bold and playful, a little bit of summer fun. Using a lemon, I created a character that was having some fun with his Turner’s - as a refreshing pool, flying a UFO, and as an astronaut. I also created a retro one to feel a little like the old movie refreshment posters.

I sent off the designs and honestly didn’t expect much. Imagine my surprise when I found out my design made it into the finals!

Being selected as a finalist was exciting and validating. Artists often work in isolation. You test, improve concepts, and infuse your essence into the project. It’s a fantastic moment to receive recognition in a competition. The idea that my artwork could end up on a carton of Turner’s iced tea that someone grabs from a cooler somewhere in Pittsburgh was pretty cool. And let’s be honest, the money means a lot when you’re struggling to get your art business off the ground!

Being a finalist ALSO meant that people would vote on the design, which added an extra layer of nerves. Seeing friends, fellow artists, and people from the community share and support the design has been amazing.

They announced the winners today, and sadly, my design failed to reach the top three. I’m grateful for the experience but have to admit I'm a little saddened by the results. But the winning design is a fantastic design; it perfectly captures Turner’s and Pittsburgh.

Thanks to everyone who voted, shared the design, or sent kind messages along the way. It means a lot. I appreciate you!

Here's some of the designs that didn't make it to the finals.