The lead designer for the project commissioned me a key visual integrating the Gallery's name, motto and year of foundation, decorated with ribbons.
I used calligraphic letters and illustration to create the artwork, and supported the team to adapt it to the various products.
The process
Our goal for this project was to communicate a handcrafted aesthetic. My process relied on analogue techniques, starting with pencil thumbnails and sketches exploring a range of possible layouts and combinations. I realised the calligraphic artwork using a metallic pen nib and a brush for the Latin motto for display size.
I drew the ‘1824’ based on a text size date found in the National Gallery’s very first catalogue, reinterpreting it to work at display size while capturing a joyful feeling.
The ribbon swirling around the numbers gives the design a celebratory feel, while the Roman lettering recalls the Neoclassical style of the National Gallery’s main building in Trafalgar Square.
I digitised the artwork and supported the team by adapting it to various formats, materials, and sizes—from a 90x90cm silk scarf to a 2.5cm wide pin.