Mastering Timeless Themes in Surface Design: A Fresh Start In The New Year

Photo Credits for this collection found here.

I see so many surface designers constantly chasing trends, filling their portfolios with the current icon of the moment from llamas to owls (anyone else seeing axolotls everywhere lately? 🙋🏻‍♀️) While it's all good to stay up to date on the latest trends, building an enduring portfolio means focusing more on evergreen themes. These timeless subjects remain perpetually popular, offering a reliable foundation for your art that transcends fleeting fads.

As you often hear in fashion, “classic” never goes out of style. And if you’re feeling a bit burnt out from endlessly scouring for the next big thing, now’s the time to lean into some “timeless” work. After all, it can be exhausting to try and keep up with every trend that hits the market, particularly when they fizzle out before you see any real return for your hard work – especially when some trends just don’t fit your personal style.

Instead, I implore you to dive into the 80/20 strategy of filling your portfolio with a majority of evergreen content with just a side of trends that feel aligned with what you enjoy creating.

Why? Because as a seasoned designer, I've observed the key to enduring success… 

⭐️ Focusing on these types of evergreen themes. ⭐️

When it comes to the world of Surface Design, longevity is where you should always be focusing the majority of your efforts; it’s where creativity meets everlasting appeal.

Every month this year, I’ll be sharing tons of evergreen motifs that fall in line with the season’s happenings. In this monthly series, I'll guide you through identifying themes that are not only timeless but also fit with your unique style, whether you're a hand letterer, character illustrator, or pattern designer. Remember, what suits the kids' market will probably differ from women's fashion or wedding stationery. Together, we’ll explore how to build a versatile yet consistent portfolio that stands the test of time, for whomever your audience might be. 

Art that is going to have long-standing market appeal is the key phrase here. 

Photo Credits for this collection found here.

Evergreen Theme: Goals & Resolutions

To kick things off this month, What topic is better to start this series off than something that has always been synonymous with the new year? Goals & Resolutions! The fact of the matter is, the new year brings the promise of new beginnings or a fresh start which carries over into a wide variety of product categories. Take some time to brainstorm ideas for imagery around goal setting and motivational phrases for an inspiring start. What typical goals do people have at the start of each year? Think about designs that promote fitness and self-care – from yoga to meditation scenes. And don't forget the serene allure of Zen-inspired art.

Whether you’re a hand letterer or illustrator, these themes find their way onto various items, from spa and room decor to athletic wear to paper products like planners and greeting cards, reflecting a universal appeal that never fades. Now imagine how your artwork would be used for t-shirts, wall art, calendars, planners, stickers, coffee mugs, and postcards. Need more inspiration? Discover market-driven concepts on my Goals & Resolutions Pinterest Board.

Photo Credits for this collection found here.

Evergreen Theme: Mysticism & Astrology

When it comes to the beginning of any year and the motivation for taking action to achieve your goals is hot, a lot of people tend to turn to everything from astrology to tarot readings, for insights into themselves as well as their futures. Even if you’re not super immersed in the mystical world, zodiacs never go out of style. They can offer diverse stylistic interpretations from simple constellation illustrations to unique zodiac characters. Incorporating Greek mythology and tarot elements adds some variety to this theme, while motifs like crystals, talismans, and fortune-teller balls enrich the mystical theme.  

Picture these designs on tees, art prints, or as unique birthday gifts. There’s a magical allure to these themes that adds a touch of mystique to everyday items. Looking for more creative ideas based on products currently in the market, check out my Mysticism & Astrology Pinterest Board.

Photo Credits for this collection found here.

Evergreen Theme: Astronomy & Outer Space

Building on the theme of astrology, where planetary alignment is key, it seems only natural to round out this month’s trio of evergreen themes with Outer Space! The cosmos offers an endless source of inspiration, from abstract swirling patterns of constellations and faraway galaxies to more graphic representations of the planets, sun, moon, and stars, these designs can have a place with almost any audience.

Imagine children's rooms adorned with celestial decor like clouds, spaceships, astronauts, and maybe even aliens, as well as art prints capturing the universal questions of the solar system, or athletic wear and t-shirts with a cosmic twist. Stationery and birthday cards featuring these themes are also always on trend. Eager for more cosmic creativity? Explore a universe of market-based ideas on my Outer Space Pinterest Board.

I hope these themes and examples give you the spark to start creating your own designs, and you’re able to see how to stock your portfolio with them in a way that’s simple to switch from season to season. Maybe I’m looking into a crystal ball, but I predict that leaning into these timeless themes will infuse your portfolio with an ageless appeal. For more insight into my designer brain, be sure to follow me on Pinterest, and let’s stay inspired together!