Design Portfolio

After reading about “Shepard Fairey’s HOPE poster case,” I found it to be a strong reminder that ethics extends beyond simply creating artwork; it also includes how artists conduct themselves throughout the creative and legal process. Although the original copyright dispute centered on whether the HOPE poster qualified as fair use, what ultimately got Fairey into legal trouble was not the artwork itself. He admitted to destroying documents and fabricating evidence during the lawsuit, which resulted in two years of probation, community service, and a fine.

One of the biggest takeaways for me is that honesty and integrity are just as important as creativity. As designers, we often use references, photographs, and inspiration from other creators. This case shows that if there are questions about where your work came from, it is always better to be transparent than to try to hide or alter evidence. A single unethical decision can damage years of hard work and overshadow an artist’s accomplishments.

This case also made me think about my own internship. Much of my work involves conducting research, writing reports, and presenting information to my supervisor. I have learned how important it is to accurately document my sources and communicate truthful information. Even though my work is not centered on copyright disputes, the same ethical principles apply. Whether I am researching competitors, writing marketing reports, or creating design concepts, my supervisor relies on me to provide information that is accurate and credible.

Clients and employers need to trust that designers are honest, respect intellectual property, and take responsibility for their work. As I continue to grow in my career, I want to build a reputation based on professionalism, ethical decision-making, and accountability, because those qualities are just as valuable as strong design skills.

Kennedy, Randy. “Shepard Fairey Is Fined and Sentenced to Probation in ‘Hope’ Poster Case.” The New York Times, 7 Sept. 2012, https://archive.nytimes.com/artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/09/07/shephard-fairey-is-fined-and-sentenced-to-probation-in-hope-poster-case/. Accessed 6 July 2026.

For this internship, I had to sign a nondisclosure agreement (NDA) because the company is developing new technology that has not yet been released to the public. The agreement outlined what information could and could not be shared, helping to protect the company’s confidential information. I have worked with several startup companies in the past and have signed a few NDAs, but I have often found some of the legal language confusing.

After reading the article “Nondisclosure Agreements,” many of my questions were clarified. One thing I learned was that an NDA not only protects the company but can also protect the individuals involved. It establishes clear expectations for handling confidential information and outlines the legal consequences if either party violates the agreement. Understanding the purpose of an NDA has given me a greater appreciation for why these agreements are necessary, especially when working with companies that are developing new products or technologies.

I also learned that employment contracts benefit both the employer and the employee. By clearly outlining the terms, responsibilities, and expectations of both parties, these agreements provide a shared understanding that can help prevent misunderstandings and resolve conflicts if they arise. Reading about NDAs and employment contracts has helped me better understand the legal and ethical responsibilities that come with working in a professional environment.

“Nondisclosure Agreements.” Nolo, https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/nondisclosure-agreements-29630.html. Accessed 6 July 2026.

Adhering to ethical principles benefits both my clients and me by maintaining a high level of professionalism, credibility, and trust. As a designer, I have a responsibility to communicate information accurately and honestly. This means avoiding plagiarism, fact-checking my work, and ensuring that the information I present is reliable and truthful. Practicing these ethical standards helps build trust with clients, strengthens my professional reputation, and demonstrates my commitment to producing high-quality work.

Throughout my internship, I have written numerous reports summarizing articles, market research, competitor analyses, and other findings. It has been important to accurately communicate this information to my supervisor while properly citing credible sources. Doing so ensures that the company is making informed decisions based on reliable information and avoids any issues related to plagiarism or misinformation. I have learned that ethical research is just as important as ethical design because the quality of a project depends on the accuracy of the information behind it. Providing trustworthy, well-researched information also helps build confidence with the company’s audience and reinforces the brand’s credibility.