ILLINIFEST 2023, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s annual open house, brought together over 8,000 attendees for a vibrant celebration of campus life, academics, and community. My role in this high-profile event was to design a visually engaging and cohesive branding experience that would leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Working closely with the Office of Admissions, I developed a dynamic logo that encapsulated the festival’s welcoming and energetic atmosphere. This branding extended seamlessly to a range of signage solutions, including:
- Welcoming Banners: Setting a warm and inviting tone for attendees as they arrived.
- Wayfinding Signs: Strategically placed to ensure smooth navigation and enhance the overall event experience.
- College-Specific Signs: Highlighting the unique identity of each department and college, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.
Duration
3 Weeks
Deliverables
Logo, Wayfinding Signs, College-Specific Signs
Tools
Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign
Logo Creation
The logo design was central to the branding. I focused on creating a bold, memorable emblem that:
- Reflected the vibrancy and excitement of the event.
- Incorporated elements tied to the university’s legacy and colors.
- Was versatile enough to be used across various materials, from banners to digital promotions.
Signage Design
- Wayfinding Signs: These were designed to be clear, legible, and visually consistent, ensuring attendees could easily navigate the large campus.
- College-Specific Signs: Each sign was tailored to reflect the unique personality and focus of the respective department, enhancing engagement and showcasing diversity within the university.
