Role: Lead Graphic Designer
Client: CSUN AS Leadership
Timeline: 5 months
Objective: To create a comprehensive brand identity within CSUN branding guidelines and all necessary visual assets for a large-scale music event, fostering community and promoting student engagement.
Client: CSUN AS Leadership
Timeline: 5 months
Objective: To create a comprehensive brand identity within CSUN branding guidelines and all necessary visual assets for a large-scale music event, fostering community and promoting student engagement.
Challenges: The main challenge was developing a distinct visual identity that would appeal to CSUN students, peers, and alumni, while also aligning with the styles of the headlining artists: Dillon Francis, Phantoms, and Valentino Khan. The project required a large number of deliverables—from initial branding to event-day signage—all under a strict and compressed timeline. Success depended on seamless communication with the full CSUN AS Marketing Team, CSUN AS Leadership, and various third-party vendors.
Process & Solution
As the lead graphic designer for the "Big Show," I knew my role was more than just creating visuals; it was about designing an experience that would resonate with the entire campus community. After communicating with the client, my process began with a clear mission: to build a brand that was as vibrant and energetic as the headliners themselves. With this is mind I went with the direction of a loud and bold font that would fill the page with energetic colors. To further embrace the vibrant and fun feels of the event, I developed a piñata-inspired concept that not only resonated with fan's of the headliner Dillon Francis but it became the heart of the event's identity—a fun and flexible character that could be used in countless ways.
With this creative foundation, my focus shifted to consistency and collaboration. I created a comprehensive asset library and style guide, including everything from custom icons to a cohesive color palette. This allowed me to efficiently manage the production of all our materials, from large-scale stage banners and event posters to custom merchandise like t-shirts, lanyards, and temporary tattoos. It was my way of ensuring every touchpoint felt connected and true to the brand we had built.
SOCIAL MEDIA
The Outcome
The most rewarding part of this project was discovering new ways to connect with attendees. I didn't just want them to see the brand; I wanted them to be a part of it. This led me to create an interactive Snapchat filter, turning every photo into a shared memory and a new way for the community to show their pride. This project was a testament to my ability to not only lead a complex design process but to also think creatively about the human experience, ultimately delivering a unified and impactful event.
The most rewarding part of this project was discovering new ways to connect with attendees. I didn't just want them to see the brand; I wanted them to be a part of it. This led me to create an interactive Snapchat filter, turning every photo into a shared memory and a new way for the community to show their pride. This project was a testament to my ability to not only lead a complex design process but to also think creatively about the human experience, ultimately delivering a unified and impactful event.
CREDITS
Photography: Jay Swuen | Videographer: Sachi Masuda
Photography: Jay Swuen | Videographer: Sachi Masuda
