Art brings a human touch to communications to help people feel something—not just see something.

At Blue Daring, we like to say that we’re “strategically creative and creatively strategic.” But what does that tongue-twister really mean?

It means our work is at the intersection of strategy and creativity—where logic meets imagination. Where the left and right sides of the brain get equal billing. And where beautiful design elevates everything.

Human Art: The AI Alternative

Every day, we’re fed a steady diet of AI-generated images and canned visuals. It’s like junk food: easy to consume but hardly satisfying.

By infusing art into communications, we can replace those empty visual calories with artistry that nourishes and helps people connect with messages in a more emotional way. Beautiful design humanizes communications so you feel something, not just see something.

Over the past 22 years, we’ve been lucky to work on projects that inform and inspire. Here are a few examples:

Designing to Make a Difference

When the City of Chicago’s Department of Planning and Development approached us to design its Central Area Plan 2045 report, the task was both technical and creative.

We needed to turn a massive collection of data, projections and policy details into a compelling report for regular citizens. The 140-page glossy brochure we created does exactly that. We used maps, infographics, photography and thoughtful design to outline the vision for downtown Chicago over the next 20 years. And we turned what could have been a text-heavy government report into a visual experience that makes readers want to learn more about their city’s future.

Key takeaway

Smart design can be a form of public service. When information is accessible, it makes even the most analytical work human and relatable.

Turning Data into Vision

Our work with the Chicago Department of Transportation on the Former BNSF Railroad Improvements Project took a similar route. It challenged us to look beyond technical details to help others see the project’s full range of possibilities.

Working with Data Vandals, we gathered community feedback—ideas, dreams and practical considerations—to create a one-of-a-kind illustrated map. This hybrid piece functioned as a construction roll plot and a work of art. It showed what the reimagined path could become in a way that standard blueprints could not.

Key takeaway

Art can bridge the gap between information and imagination. It gives people something they can connect to and believe in.

Creating Without a Brief

For our 15th and 20th anniversaries, our founder, Melissa, launched the Blue Daring Creative Challenge. Three teams of creatives and strategists each received $10,000 and one direction: Make something beautiful that embodies Blue Daring.

The results were as varied as the teams themselves: short films, artwork, even a citywide poster campaign. As a company of creatives, we pride ourselves in pushing boundaries and creating art for its own sake—not just because it sells or communicates, but because it moves people.

Key takeaway

Freedom fuels creativity. When you have a blank canvas, the possibilities are endless. And the end results can delight and inspire people in unexpected ways.

Bringing It All Together

Our annual Blue Daring holiday kit gives us a chance to spread our creative wings even more as we thank our clients and wish them well in the coming year.

Over the years, we’ve sent a two-can mini-fridge with personalized magnets; a record player with a custom LP and album jacket; and a Bright Days Ahead package with a UV lamp, tea and mug to bring some sunshine into people’s lives.
Every element of our holiday kits is intentional and memorable. We design them to surprise people and remind them that human creativity is still worth celebrating.

Key takeaway

In a world where digital interactions dominate, something you can hold in your hands has the power to linger long after the message is received.

A Call to Create There’s an artist in all of us. You don’t need a design degree or formal training to create something new and original. You just need a spark of curiosity. It can be as simple as doodling in a notepad or writing a few lines of poetry that make you smile. You could create a new playlist for your commute or try your hand at painting or ceramics. Whatever you do, remember: There are no mistakes in art. Because in the end, creativity isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection. And the more art we put into the world, the more human our world becomes.