Spec Work

I happened to be looking for some poster inspiration from the AIGA archives and noticed a link to an article on the AIGA's position on spec work. I haven't had much luck with spec work myself (It usually leads to work I am not satisfied with and didn't get paid for). But I have noticed an alarming trend in a number of creative fields to use online contests to solicit spec work.

Threadless (which I heart by the way) asks illustrators and designers to compete for a chance to have their designs printed. Zuda is owned by DC Comics and has comic book creators competing monthly for a chance at publication. The best part is: If you win you get to sign over all rights to your work to DC.

Recently, I was introduced to a site called, crowdSPRING, where clients can post design projects and have designers compete for the work by submitting their designs if they are fortunate enough to "win" they will be paid for the work. Looking at the site I have to admit some of the projects are tempting, but I have to remind myself that no good can come of it.

I am glad that the AIGA includes this kind of spec work in their position statement, and I hope it is a passing trend...