ROLE
Brand Identity · Print Design · Merch Design · Animation
TOOLKIT
Illustrator · Photoshop · Procreate
YEAR
2024
EBERTFEST REBRAND
For this project, I rebranded the identity of Roger Ebert’s annual film festival to appeal to a wider, younger audience. Ebert started this festival to celebrate the diversity and joy of cinema. To reflect this spirit, the brand system utilizes hand-drawn illustrations and typography to express authenticity. The psychedelic type forms are expressive and enthusiastic, capturing Ebert’s passion for film.
PROCESS
Early Concepts
CONCEPT 1
I made handcrafted collage imagery to capture the festival's playful spirit while reflecting Roger Ebert's authentic, down-to-earth personality. Energetic, expressive visuals and a vibrant contemporary color palette reinforce the festival's excitement, while surreal compositions add a sense of imagination and whimsy.
CONCEPT 2
Found film stills capture the curiosity and relatability at the heart of the festival, creating a connection between audiences and the films. I used bold, repeating Helvetica typography, reinforcing the festival's enthusiastic, urgent voice, while a sarcastic visual tone disrupts expectations and commands attention.
CONCEPT 3
Black-and-white photo illustration, collage, and expressive cropping contrast with vibrant neon typography to merge the digital and tangible. The nostalgic imagery captures cinema's sense of wonder, reflecting Roger Ebert's passion for film while evoking curiosity, excitement, and playful exploration.
CONCEPT 4
I made abstract gradient illustrations to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere, while embedded film stills offer glimpses of the festival's lineup to spark curiosity and anticipation. Soft gradients, flowing forms, and a warm palette of purples, blues, pinks, and neutrals reinforce a sense of fluidity, playfulness, and comfort.
SELECTED CONCEPT
I created graceful hand-painted illustrations and brush-stroked type to capture a human touch, conveying an authentic, sincere feel that is heartfelt. Tapping into the emotion & passion that the audience shares with Ebert.
DIALING IT IN
SOME MORE FUN STUFF :)
