A4 Books
4pp Cover onto 250gsm Uncoated
Matt Lamination to outer
76pp Text onto 120gsm Uncoated
Four colour print throughout
Trimmed, collated and perfect bound
Every June, the culmination of three years of study bursts into print form in the Camberwell BA Drawing Catalogue — a refined, tactile record of bold visual storytelling. For 2025, Polvo Press returned to Ex Why Zed to transform student work into a stunningly produced artefact. From the understated matt-laminated cover to the vibrant palette and elegant grid inside, every detail supports the narrative structure of each student’s creative journey. What began as a spec sheet became a collaborative dialogue, resulting in a publication that feels like a printed exhibition. In this case study, we explore the design-led publishing approach, the nuanced collaboration with Camberwell, and the expert production values that helped make it possible.
The Camberwell BA Drawing Catalogue immediately impresses with its confident format, tactile materials and bold editorial layout. Designed as a summative artefact for the graduating cohort at Camberwell College of Arts, the publication acts as a tactile exhibition—a printed archive of creative exploration and individual voice. Bound in A4 with a perfect finish, the structure asserts itself with a sense of permanence, inviting prolonged engagement.
The 4pp cover printed on 250gsm uncoated stock—finished with a matt laminate—offers a subtle tactility that sets the tone for the book’s refined approach. Under the light, the lamination mutes any sheen and provides a soft, resistant surface ideal for a high-traffic document such as a degree show catalogue.
From the front cover (IMG_3831, IMG_3840), we see a minimalist, almost archival design sensibility. The absence of overt ornamentation allows the viewer’s eye to settle on the quiet authority of the layout. The typographic treatment is restrained and elegant. The institutional branding of Camberwell/UAL is integrated unobtrusively, allowing the students’ work to lead the conversation.
Inside, the 76pp text printed on 120gsm uncoated stock (IMG_3846, IMG_3854, IMG_3843) delivers a cohesive editorial structure. The internal layouts reveal a refined grid system, enabling clear navigation while celebrating visual storytelling. There is careful consideration of pacing—some spreads are image-heavy with immersive double-page student work, while others are lighter, with smaller-scale drawings accompanied by written statements.
The typography maintains a neutral but assured presence, likely favouring a sans-serif family that adapts well to various content densities. Hierarchy is well-managed; student names, project titles, and narratives appear with clarity and rhythm, a result of intuitive typesetting choices and precise margin management.
Photographs and drawings span media—from gestural charcoal sketches to clean vector illustrations—offering a spectrum of artistic styles. The book becomes a modular identity, showcasing each graduate’s visual voice within a consistent framework. The spread in IMG_3857 is particularly impactful: full-bleed, expressive visuals in a dynamic composition that delivers immediacy and immersion. These moments of maximalism are counterbalanced by quieter, open layouts—resulting in an editorial ecosystem that reflects both individuality and collective energy.
Each student is given space to breathe, their work framed by generous margins. Where needed, colour is used selectively—mostly to support the content rather than dominate it. The entire palette remains sophisticated and neutral, letting the drawings remain the focal point.
Perfect binding provides durability and a professional finish. The book lies flat enough to allow comfortable browsing, yet the spine has enough grip to communicate the object’s quality. The trimming is clean and precise—visible in the uniformity of the page edges throughout (IMG_3841 and IMG_3847). This reinforces the integrity of the production values offered by Ex Why Zed, who clearly ensured tight quality control across lamination, collation, and trimming.
The book not only presents the graduates’ work but elevates it, thanks to production choices that understand the tactile and visual expectations of an arts audience.
This project exemplifies a commitment to design-led publishing and a belief in the authority of the printed book as a permanent archive of creative expression. The Camberwell BA Drawing Catalogue stands as a celebration of both student achievement and production precision. In our hands at Ex Why Zed, it’s more than a book—it’s an exhibition in print.
How Polvo Press and Camberwell BA Drawing brought their catalogue to life with Ex Why Zed
The journey of the Camberwell BA Drawing Catalogue 2025 began with a familiar and welcome return: Will Nicholls, representing Polvo Press and Camberwell College of Arts, reached out in mid-March with a clear request. Having previously worked with Ex Why Zed, Will was once again tasked with producing a publication that celebrated the creative output of the graduating class. His concise brief specified A4 books with a 4pp 250gsm uncoated cover, 60pp on 115gsm uncoated text stock, matt laminated cover and perfect binding — a well-balanced spec for an art school degree catalogue.
From the outset, our response was both prompt and detailed. Within two hours of Will’s initial email, we had supplied a tailored quote for 80, 90 and 100 copies — with transparent pricing and complimentary delivery. We refined the spec slightly by upgrading the cover to 300gsm and the text stock to 120gsm, ensuring FSC-certified sustainability across the project. This not only added to the book’s durability and feel but aligned with the ethical standards expected from a University of the Arts London-affiliated production.
Knowing the challenges many student designers face with print file setup, we didn’t just send a quote — we offered proactive guidance. Links to our comprehensive file-prep resources, including guides on perfect binding artwork and best design software, were shared early in the process. This helped Will feel supported and confident from the start, and reassured the client that their print partner was more than just a production house — we were collaborators.
By early June, the print journey accelerated. The project had grown: the catalogue now included 76 inside pages, and an additional promotional item — a folded A4 leaflet printed on 100gsm silk, creased and cross-folded to A6 format — was introduced for distribution at the show. Will inquired about updated pricing, mindful of university budgeting constraints. We kept things simple — maintaining the previous price despite the added pages — a gesture that helped smooth the financial process and preserved the timeline with minimal admin delays.
On 6th June, Will confirmed file upload via WeTransfer — sharing both the 76pp catalogue and the folded leaflet. Our team quickly checked the files and responded with affirmation: “The catalogue is looking great. I really like the first page and these Peter Saville style colour bars,” said Mike from Ex Why Zed — a personal note of encouragement reflecting our engagement with the work.
As always, we conducted a thorough preflight check. Final proofing involved providing a live browser-based preview link — complete with rulers, guides, and trim lines — to help Will review the spreads at full resolution. The guidance was detailed and user-friendly, with reminders to check the final digital mock-up on a desktop for accuracy. A last-minute clarification about which panel would be the ‘front cover’ of the folded leaflet was handled seamlessly, with Will replying promptly and appreciatively.
Once Will gave the go-ahead, the project moved quickly. We prioritised the catalogue and folded leaflet in our print queue, maintaining our promise of a 5-working-day turnaround. By 13th June, we had confirmation that the catalogues were completed and sitting at the DHL depot — and the leaflets had already been delivered the previous day to the front desk at Camberwell.
Throughout, communication was warm, prompt, and collaborative. Will’s closing message — “Thanks so much again” — encapsulated a partnership built on trust, efficiency, and shared creative vision.
The final result is a bold aesthetic artefact that acts as both an editorial showcase and professional calling card for the students of Camberwell BA Drawing. With expressive visuals, refined layout, and a production spec that enhances its tactile experience, the catalogue stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful print.
This project exemplifies how effective collaboration, expert support, and high-spec print production can elevate a university publication into a timeless, tactile experience.
