Research
I began this project having been inspired by my desire for artistic and spiritual connection in my early adulthood. Through multiple moves as an adult, I often felt disconnected from my community and yearned for a safe space that would also help me with my future endeavors. I wanted more opportunities, and needed encouragement to pursue my creative passions. So, I decided that I wanted to create an organization specifically for women that bridged the gap between spirituality and the arts.
While researching and conducting interviews, I decided that I would need to find good mentors, find ways to stay inclusive and diverse, and find a home with studio spaces. I also decided that workshops and classes would be required for all mentors, in order to keep the environment safe, inclusive, and knowledgable.
Through my research, I also decided that the organization’s mission statement would be grounded in peace, kindness towards others, and sewing goodness into the general community. These morals are drawn from a wide array of religions. I also wanted to make sure that the mentors within this organization were adequately compensated for their time, and their individual businesses would be supported as well.
Moodboard
In order to make the environment in the home warm and inviting, I decided to focus on soft brown and tan colors. I also wanted the artifacts and materials I used to have either a handcrafted aesthetic, or antiqued quality.
Physical & Digital Mockups
Since the organization is a space where women discuss spiritual and social topics that are meant to build community, it was important that there was a comfortable gathering/meeting spot with an area for seating.
After these group discussions, the women would break off individually or into small groups to work on their personal projects. This could be photography, painting, writing, sketching, music, or any other form of art. Due to this, there would also need to be workspaces and/or studio spaces.
This sets the organization apart from other studio spaces, as it is not only a place for creative women, but also seeks to empower women and build them up for all future creative endeavors.
Logo Sketches
As I began sketching out logo ideas, I focused on creating something feminine, open, and simplistic. I was inspired to create a logo that contained an actual house, and encompass it with a leaf to symbolize a protected, safe space. The typeface I chose (Boska, Light Italic) greatly influenced the shapes and line weights within the logo.
Brand Guidelines
I was able to finalize the logo, and chose a simplistic color palette,. I also chose a sans serif font for the title and body, which had a similar x-height and movement to Boska, the logo font.
Prototypes
I was able to create prototypes that emulated the handcrafted, simplistic, and feminine style that I had planned for. Seeing the business cards and brochures in a prototype format helped me find the few places where body type needed to be tightened, and where information could be better aligned.
Final Images
I was able to print the business card and brochure on a thick, recycled cardstock, which helped make the artifacts look more handcrafted. The journal was also made from recycled card stock, paper, and black ribbon.
It was important to stage the artifacts inside of the bag, in order to show the potential artists what they would receive upon joining the organization, and what the tote bag is intended for (carrying art supplies, journals, information pertaining to the organization, etc.). The hat and jacket also show that the space is meant to be a second home to the women.
The space offered a great work bench and stool to place an organizer filled with art supplies. The varying wood tones really help create a rustic, warm, and inviting area.
It was important to show an actual example of what the space is intended for, which is creating art. Although paintings are just one of the many things that the women can create, I thought the color from the paints would create more visual intrigue.
Luckily, I was able to find a well-decorated space where I could stage pillows, throws, and other items to make the space more inviting and welcoming. The meeting space should look and feel comfortable.
