EVENTS

CROPPED

The Midwest’s most thrilling graphic design competition

Modeled after the hit show, Chopped, designers compete to deliver design collateral for a local small business or nonprofit — all while trying to avoid being CROPPED between rounds. The catch? Each round is a surprise design challenge, so competitors will need to think on their feet!

Buy your Cropped 2026 Tickets!

Meet your Cropped 2026 Designers!

Clare Clark

“I’m Clare Clark, a graphic designer who graduated from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln this past May with a BFA in Graphic Design. During my time at UNL, I had the opportunity to push myself creatively while learning from and being supported by amazing professors. I currently work at Swanson Russell, where I continue to challenge myself creatively, strengthen my problem-solving skills, and grow as a designer. I’m passionate about exploring new ideas and finding thoughtful, creative ways to bring brands to life. I’m so excited for the opportunity to compete in CROPPED!”
Associate Graphic Designer at Swanson Russell

Emily Arnold

Emily Arnold is a Graphic Designer at Eleanor Creative, a brand experience agency located in Omaha and Lincoln. She has a degree in Advertising and Public Relations from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and her background in advertising and experience in graphic design make her a strategic asset.

She sets brands in motion. Emily knows how to tell compelling visual stories, no matter the medium. By weaving clever messaging with distinct visuals, Emily creates graphic materials that make brand identities sing.

Designer at Eleanor Creative

Pattara Rujirayanyong

Pattara Rujirayanyong is a freelance graphic designer based in Lincoln, Nebraska, and a graduate of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln with a degree in Graphic Design. Originally from Thailand, he enjoys exploring different cultures through travel, film, and photography, which often influence his work.

His work spans branding, visual design, editorial, and photography, with a growing interest in art direction and building visual identities. His senior capstone project, Pieces of the Core, received a Gold ADDY Award at the AAF District 9 level for Book Design. He hopes to continue exploring the relationship between design, photography, and storytelling through his work.

Freelance Graphic Designer, Independent

Cody Pedersen

Cody Pedersen is a Nebraska-based graphic designer specializing in print production and merchandise design. He earned his associate degree in Graphic Design from Metropolitan Community College before spending three years working in print production and freelance design. He now works as a graphic designer at Relentless Merch.

Designer, Relentless Merch

Jane Wanek

Hi, I’m Jane! I’m a graphic designer at Nelnet Business Services and a UNL grad with a BFA in Graphic Design. I love working on everything from branding and packaging to digital design, and I’m usually the person who gets a little too excited about a good font or a really well-designed package. I love coming up with ideas, experimenting with different directions, and figuring out how to make a design stand out. I’m excited to compete in Cropped, challenge myself, and see what I can create!

Nelnet Business Services – Associate Graphic Designer

Meet the Small Business: A Novel Idea!

Founded in 1991, A Novel Idea has been a staple near O Street, offering used, rare, and new books along with gifts for readers just steps from the university. With Project O Street construction underway on their block, a fresh set of marketing materials couldn’t come at a better time to help this local shop stay visible and draw customers through their doors.

Follow A Novel Idea on social media:

Visit A Novel Idea's Website

CROPPED Hall of Winners

2025: Jacob Kelly
2024: RJ Shrimpton
2023: Sean Flattery
2022: Sean Flattery
2021: Sean Flattery
2019: Anthony Banks
2018: Jordan Geisert

See CROPPED 2025 Recap

Contest Rules and Details

Anyone may enter unless they are serving a position on the board of AMA Lincoln
All designers chosen must be able to bring their own computer, iPad, or tablet to use at the live event (AMA Lincoln will provide extension cords and power if needed)
All designs created at the event can be used by AMA Lincoln in future marketing for Cropped and AMA Lincoln
Final designs created for our Small Business Recipient will belong to the Small Business to be used as they choose
As one of the final designers at Cropped, you will receive your entry to the event for free (including an alcoholic or nonalcoholic drink and hor d’oeuvres) and receive an additional free ticket for a guest.
*Designer entries are now closed