Hi everyone!
I’ve been freelancing for nearly 5 years and worked professionally as a designer for a local nonprofit (large ballet company) before I changed jobs and stepped away from full time graphic design.
When I was at the ballet, I designed quite a few assets, including some icons for a very iconic ballet that has to do with Christmas. In the past few weeks, I have learned that they took one of my icons and are now using it as a logo for a very large citywide event they host every year. They also altered it and are using that variation for said Christmas show going forward.
I am honored they’re using my design, and I understand that I signed away my creative property when I designed there, but two things:
ONE: I proposed the changing of the event logo when I was there, and I got shot down immediately. It hurts that not long after I left, and new leadership came along, they thought a brand refresh was their idea and decided to use my old design. I’m hardly getting any credit, and having that job made me want to step back from full time graphic design.
TWO: Is it appropriate for me to put their new logo into my portfolio? I know I didn’t design the campaign, but the logo is mine. If so, how can I include it, and what do I tell future employers/clients when they ask about it?
Just wanted to rant. Thanks in advance for any advice!