The Brighton Fringe 2021 hero graphic needs to entertain, engage and excite potential audiences around the world in these ‘new normal times’. It also needs to raise awareness of the artistic range of Brighton Fringe, reflect the high energy, inclusive nature of the Brighton Fringe brand, and build a strong digital brand.

Working as a UI (user interface) designer for Nvisage, I had undertaken designs for several earlier Brighton Fringe events and I felt I had a genuine insight into its working processes, evolving audience and brand intentions. And while not successful this time, I enjoyed the creative tender process of the project.

Had their bid been successful, I would have worked on this project with mylong-time collaborator graphic designer Lee Suttey, with whom I have worked closely on numerous branding, web and print projects over the past 15 years. Together Lee and I created the visual identity and branding for the Brighton Chamber of Commerce Basecamp 2020 and we will be doing so again this year.

Inspired by comic's style, I chose to embrace the Fringe 2021 motto ‘Time to Celebrate’ quite literally: with a dynamic clock design, in which each of the 12 hour-associated illustrations represents a Fringe category.

‘The clock represents past, present and future, with the hand moving into the future; towards the time where we can celebrate again. With the spiralling of the clock hands, we show that the future is open; that we’re no longer in lock-down, but moving forward positively - hopeful!’