Over the past couple of years I have been volunteering a little of my time towards projects at our local primary school. At the end of June we helped to organise a big Itchen Abbas Summer Fair. I was able to lend a hand with all the different graphic elements, including this bright poster design featuring my blooming sunflower illustration.
These kind of ‘commissions’ are a free hit… a chance to do something bold and play with type. And during a busy Summer period there are so many events in the area; so creating an eye-catching image is pretty vital. I think the yellow does that job here! But hopefully the illustration, circular text in rainbow colours and big lettering makes this one stand out. The sunflower became a symbol of the Itchen Abbas Summer Fair and we used it across the different signage and stationery.
Summer Fair Newspaper
Another of my highlights from this fair was the opportunity to create an event ‘newspaper’. This was intended to showcase the school and provide a map for those attending. It was also a great space for advertising sponsors who donated towards our school fundraising. The donations had already been pledged, but this felt like a nice extra nod to their support and an original way to record the day.
I made all little line illustrations and map icons on the iPad using Adobe Fresco. Then all the elements were pulled together with the text using Photoshop. The newspapers were printed here in the studio, black & white, on recycled A4 paper. The weight of which actually had a newsprint feel. We then gave them out at the welcome desk for everyone entering the fair.
As well as the more decorative fair map, there was also a few logistical maps to build. This included the travel/village map below. Giving directions for anyone who hadn’t been to the area before and guiding them towards parking.
I think my graphic design skills can naturally be a little busy; which I believe works best for items like the newspaper. The infographics need much more restraint and clarity. Another good exercise for me but an opportunity to show some further map skills… illustrated maps being something I get asked about regularly by commercial clients.
This was our first Summer Fair at Itchen Abbas and a very successful start. We hope to go again in 2025 and I’m sure there will be an opportunity to design next year’s poster!
