Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design

Discover the creative packaging design of 'Applicant,' a limited-edition chocolate beer inspired by a graphic designer's journey.

Alexander Cherkasov, a seasoned graphic designer and art director, has created a unique and personal branding project: a limited-edition craft beer called Applicant. The beer, a blend of stout, porter, and ale with chocolate notes, is a tribute to Cherkasov's own career and serves as a metaphor for his personality.  

The label design features a central image resembling a portrait of Cherkasov, with each element carefully chosen to represent a part of his life story. The name 'Applicant' reflects the designer's ongoing search for new opportunities and challenges.  

Typography plays a crucial role in the design, with all text elements structured and united by meaning. Modern fonts ensure easy readability and complement each other, while also symbolizing thick beer foam. The back of the label features a concise infographic highlighting Cherkasov's professional skills.  

The color palette for the labels draws inspiration from various types of chocolate, and the cans are coated in gold to resemble chocolate wrappers. A semi-matte varnish adds a pleasant tactile element to the labels.  

The series features different facial expressions on the labels, not only differentiating the SKUs but also adding a human touch and expressiveness to the images.  

Cherkasov's self-designed beer is a statement, an invitation to the world to see him through his work. He believes that every applicant will find their dream job, just as every beer lover will find their preferred taste within the Applicant line.  

This project is a testament to the power of personal branding and creative expression. By turning his own career journey into a metaphor for a limited-edition beer, Cherkasov has created a unique and memorable brand that resonates with both design enthusiasts and beer connoisseurs.

Learn more about Alexander Cherkasov and his work on his website: cherkasov.design

Branding and packaging design artifacts

Image from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on AbduzeedoImage from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on Abduzeedo Image from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on AbduzeedoImage from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on Abduzeedo Image from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on AbduzeedoImage from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on Abduzeedo Image from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on AbduzeedoImage from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on Abduzeedo Image from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on AbduzeedoImage from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on Abduzeedo Image from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on AbduzeedoImage from the Applicant: A Self-Portrait in Beer Branding and Packaging Design article on Abduzeedo

Credits

Designer & Art Director: Alexander Cherkasov
3D visualizer: Alexey Avduevsky
Motion designer: Alexander Zakharov 

Typography: Agipo by Radim Pesko; Bossa by Family Type; Suisse by Swiss Typefaces