Behind the Design of 2023 Topps Finest MLS
The 2023 Topps Finest MLS collection stands as a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship and innovative vision of Art Director Arvin Catriz and his team at Topps. In a quest to encapsulate the essence of Major League Soccer’s finest moments and players, Arvin embarked on a journey to create a collection that seamlessly blended tradition with modernity.
Discussing the approach to designing 2023 Topps Finest MLS, Arvin emphasized the delicate balance between continuity and innovation. “The concept is tying in old school elements and adding modern twists bro the overall look and feel. We get inspiration from retro designs in the past as well as modern designs that have a lot of energy and uniqueness to them.” This unwavering commitment to evolving the collection while staying true to its roots ensures that each iteration of Finest MLS captivates fans with its timeless appeal.
Despite the challenges encountered, Arvin and his team navigated the design process with finesse, seamlessly blending traditional elements with contemporary flair to infuse 2023 Topps Finest MLS with its distinctive charm. From referencing past cards to experimenting with novel printing technologies, every decision was made to deliver an unparalleled collectible experience.
A standout moment in the team’s design journey was the conception of the groundbreaking “Finest Idols” insert. This innovative addition, with variants in gold, silver and bronze, exemplifies Topps’ tireless pursuit of excellence and innovation within sports card design. “The goal was to produce this unique card that felt like a golden ticket/gold bar card,” Arvin explained, highlighting the team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Arvin also found joy in crafting the “Finest Creators” insert, which he described as “a modern interpretation of a retro card we made in the past. Once again channeling the vintage finest cards as our anchor for this design.” This blend of nostalgia and contemporary design elements adds depth and richness to the collection, appealing to collectors of all generations.
Furthermore, Arvin highlighted the excitement of developing the “Prized Footballers” insert, where the team “had a lot of fun, coming up with a design that felt in the realm of your classic comic book layouts and tying that with some flashy elements that evoked energy and power.” This fusion of classic aesthetics with dynamic visual elements showcases Topps’ commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation.
As collectors eagerly enjoy 2023 Topps Finest MLS and anticipate future releases, one thing remains abundantly clear: the enduring legacy of excellence established by Arvin will continue to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike for years to come.
