Weltformat Issue 23: Life’s A Pitch

Having lost, but with an idea at hand; that is what may happen time and time again to designers who take part in competitions. What happens in case of failure? What about the time and work spent on the project? "Life's a Pitch", the theme of the 2023 edition of Weltformat Graphic Design Festival took up this controversial topic. There are many different attitudes and opinions on pitch culture. Some designers avoid pitches altogether, others may view them as an opportunity. Critical questions should always be asked: What conditions does a pitch need? What are the advantages and disadvantages for designers and employers? And what happens to all the submissions that didn't make it? The 2023 edition of Weltformat pulled the latter out of dusty near-existence and put them in the spotlight. This publication accompanied the festival and commissioned itself to observe, complement, and record. The pitch culture is to be viewed in a more differentiated way than what might be assumed at first glance. It is worth reflecting on one's own views and considering different perspectives. Experience is worth its weight in gold here, so to all aspiring pitch participants: Prick up your ears!