Behind the Design of 2023 Topps Stadium Club
In the world of baseball card collecting, Topps Stadium Club has always been that beloved classic, cherished by fans for its unique card designs that capture the very essence of the game. And in 2023, it didn’t just continue the tradition; it took it up a notch. We had the privilege of sitting down with Topps Art Director Derrick Eng, the creative maestro behind the scenes at Topps, to dive into the fascinating journey of crafting 2023 Topps Stadium Club Baseball.
Challenges and Triumphs
Throughout the interview, Eng painted a vivid picture of the challenges and victories that went into bringing this collection to life. When the conversation turned to which set presented the most significant design challenges, Eng didn’t hesitate to mention Triumvirates. He explained, “Triumvirates consists of a larger wide-format design cut into three uniquely interlocking cards. The main challenge is to create an aesthetically pleasing background where all three cards look just right when viewed, connected side by side, and still maintain their individual charm when collected separately. We had to meticulously plan the design and placement of parallel colors to make it all come together.”
But what truly sets the 2023 version apart from its predecessors are the subtle changes that breathe new life into the product. Eng spilled the beans, revealing, “We decided to incorporate the player’s last name in a larger font, making it stand out even from a distance. And here’s the kicker – we added a spectrum of team colors behind it, something you haven’t seen much in previous editions. It’s all about keeping the classic vibe while introducing a fresh twist.”
Now, you might wonder if they employed some cutting-edge printing techniques or materials to elevate the visual appeal of these cards. Eng set the record straight, saying, “Nothing groundbreaking in terms of printing; we stuck with the tried-and-true methods. After all, Stadium Club is all about showcasing the unique photography that makes these cards so special.”
Bringing It All Together
When talking about his favorite insert in the set, Eng cited The Beam Team. “It was a blast to work on. The Beam Team has always been a fan-favorite subset within Stadium Club, and this time around, we had the chance to play with a wide spectrum of lively, bright colors while incorporating that sense of depth. It’s the kind of design that makes you smile.”
In the end, the 2023 Stadium Club Baseball series isn’t just a collection of cards; it’s a captivating journey through the artistry and dedication of the Topps team. Through innovative design choices, careful planning, and an unwavering commitment to showcasing the game’s beauty, they’ve delivered a product that strikes a chord with fans and collectors alike. It’s a celebration of baseball’s rich history, an embrace of contemporary design trends.
