Johns Hopkins University
The following project was created over four days as part of a concept brief showcasing potential identifiers for Johns Hopkins University’s Lighting of the Quads event. The assignment was broken into four phases: 1) Study the JHU brand from top to bottom, 2) learn more about the event and conduct field research on the campus, 3) research similar events hosted by other organizations and 4) design all assets for the final presentation.
TRADITIONAL
I started by looking at other schools and how they handle their events, holidays, etc. This led me to a more traditional design inspired by the space. The identifier applies a minimalist design to Gilman Hall and adds a hint of color inspired by the fireworks and light show presented at the event. The text is bold as to stand out from the graphic treatment around it. The result is a clean and simple approach to the event graphic and branding.
ONE SMALL DETAIL
After looking through the HUB publication for more information on the event, I found a photo of Gilman Hall, taken by JHU’s Will Kirk. Zooming in, there is a decorative railing that led me to what I as a designer like to call an “ah-ha” design. By looking at that railing, I was able to create a simple snowflake graphic in the style of JHU’s library of icons. The font choices are inspired by the Hopkins Engineering pennant found on the typography page of the branding site.
ABSTRACT. BOLD.
For my final design, I decided to take a walk over to the campus and quad. Living only a block from campus, I was able to see how the students interact in the space on a normal day. Noticing that the sidewalk has a unique path, I decided to sketch and ultimately turn that into a logo mark that’s abstract and simple. The use of the JHU branded orange, yellow, purple, green and red are inspired by a bird’s eye photo in the 2023 HUB story about the event. At the center of the graphic is Spirit Blue which unites students and their love of Johns Hopkins University.
MERCH!
The perfect give-away items for any winter event. Whether it’s from a Christmas tree or your car’s mirror. Even an acrylic light catcher to hang all year long. The hanging ornaments are a great give-away at the event. The mugs below them are inspired by Baltimore’s Christmas Village and would include the event identifier as well as a specially selected piece created by a student.
BUILDING AN EVENT…
My approach with each poster was to explore and learn JHU’s brand while also thinking about creative ways of using each identifier.