City of Stanwood: 88th Street Arch Banners
City of Stanwood: 88th Street Arch Banners
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In early 2024, I submitted artwork for a project with the City of Stanwood, WA, and the Stanwood-Camano Arts Advocacy Commission. The commission invited artists to choose from four different design styles, and I selected the Rosemaling style, which felt like the perfect fit for my approach. My design reinterpreted traditional rosemaling with a modern twist, blending cultural heritage with innovative elements. I intentionally kept the design minimalistic, stepping away from overly complicated shapes and intricate details to ensure the design would be easily recognizable and impactful for those passing under the archway.
I focused on creating a vibrant and harmonious design that would resonate with both the local community and visitors. The color palette and simplified motifs were inspired by the traditions of rosemaling but tailored to complement the existing archway and its surroundings. After hand-drawing the design in Procreate, I finalized it in Adobe Illustrator to prepare it for submission. The final pieces, if selected, would be printed on large-scale metal panels and displayed on the archway at 88th Ave, becoming a lasting part of the city’s visual landscape. While I was not selected for the project, the experience was valuable in further developing my skills in creating designs that blend tradition with modern aesthetics.
*Full design isn't shown because of original size of the design.
Title of Piece:
Blossoms
Medium:
Digital. First hand-drawn using ProCreate, then placed into Illustrator for final layout.
Artist Statement:
Blossoms represents my modern interpretation of the traditional rosemaling design, a fusion of cultural heritage and contemporary expression. In creating this piece, I sought to merge the timeless beauty of rosemaling with a fresh, dynamic approach. The design incorporates gradients, adding depth and movement to the artwork, which contrasts with the static nature of the archway it will adorn. My goal was to evoke a sense of vibrancy while keeping the design approachable and clear for both bicyclists and drivers who will pass under it.
I deliberately simplified the motifs, focusing on shapes inspired by classic rosemaling but avoiding intricate details that could detract from the legibility of the design. The color palette was selected with great care, drawing from the hues present in the archway and the City of Stanwood signage to create a seamless visual connection. I wanted the design to feel like a natural extension of its environment—something that feels both familiar and exciting for those encountering it. By blending tradition with modern flair, Blossoms offers a visual experience that celebrates the past while looking forward to the future, welcoming all who pass through the archway with a lively and memorable impression.
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