As the Junior Graphic Designer for the Historic Oakland Foundation, I played a key role in the visual execution of Illumine 2026, Atlanta’s favorite 'after-dark' arts event at an unexpected venue, a cemetery! My work
focused on bridging the gap between Oakland’s 175-year-old history and significance and modern and neon
contemporary immersive art installations.
Joining the Historic Oakland Foundation team mid-campaign required extreme attention to detail and brand cohesion to make sure there was a seamless transition of designers. Maintaining the predetermined event identity, I carried through the promotional season with city-wide motion graphics, banners, and fliers. Then during the event itself, thousands of visitors were guided by my map design, wayfinding, and informational signage.
Event Photos by JV Motion
WHAT I DELIVERED
Printed Promo
Translated the Illumine visual identity into tangible marketing assets designed to drive local engagement. I produced high-impact print collateral including large-scale street banners, neighborhood flyers, and hand-held event guides, managing everything from file setup to final production to ensure crisp typography and vibrant color accuracy.
Wayfinding & Route Systems
Developed an intuitive, site-specific navigation system for a complex mile-long outdoor route. Balancing visitor safety with historic reverence, I designed highly visible directional signs, safety notices, and localized maps that guided thousands of night-time guests safely through unlit historic terrain.
Motion Graphics & Dynamic Content
Brought the 'after-dark' experience to life before the gates even opened. I animated kinetic text, title cards, and atmospheric video loops for social feeds, capturing the glowing, ethereal energy of the neon and light installations to build pre-event momentum and boost ticket sales.
Day-of-Signage & Experiential Graphics
Enhanced the on-site guest experience through strategic environmental graphics. I ensured every physical design element felt seamlessly integrated into Oakland’s 175-year-old Victorian landscape.
Digital Design & Social Toolkit
Built a comprehensive multi-channel digital toolkit to streamline marketing across all touchpoints. This included designing email headers, website banners, and structured social media templates that allowed the Historic Oakland Foundation to push rapid, cohesive updates to their audience.
Sponsor Spotlight & Community Partners
Crafted a premium, cohesive framework to honor event partners and sponsors (including the High Museum of Art and local art collectives). By designing dedicated sponsor appreciation graphics and integration layouts, I gave critical backers prominent visibility while entirely preserving the artistic, curated feel of the exhibition.
