Here is some more real world graphic design.  Also due Jan 31, 2013!:

The Seward City of Commerce is looking for a logo for the 2013 Mount Marathon Race.

Here are the rules:

size 8 1/2 x 11 inches

Only 4 colors

Include:

Mount Marathon Race

July 4 2013

86th Running

Seward, Alaska

The word “finisher” or “survivor”

Must have a mountain theme

We will actually enter these and the winner recieves $200!  The chosen design will be made into T-shirts, hoodies, hats, patches, and posters.  Keep in mind that the patches will be round.

Michael Marshall won this with the design he came up last year.

Here are some other cool designs from last year:

Gabe Esposito

Jacob Sears

My Rules:

Include a mountain and something to represent running.  Remember, good logos are bold and get the point across clearly.  The point of this logo is a hardcore race up a mountain in Seward, Alaska.  How can you represent these things visually?  Remember, the text is a part of the art, incorporate it into the design, not just as an afterthought.  You know how to add effects, bend it, etc.

I can’t wait to see what you come up with!  Use the knowledge you have learned from your other projects, you are becoming Photoshop masters…

* Remember to use royalty free images or to create your own!

Here are other logos for inspiration: