An annual event since 2001, EMP’s Sound Off! supports the all-ages scene by giving artists an opportunity to showcase original music, launch their music careers, and connect with the local music scene. The all-ages fest hosts a competition in which bands battle for the chance to perform at a major regional music festival such as Bumbershoot, Capitol Hill Block Party, and Timber MusicFest. Now in its 14th year, Sound Off! boasts an alumni list that includes big names like The Lonely Forest, Dyme Def and Sol. Project Goals: Sound Off! is a year-long campaign that consists of two phases: 1) call for entries and 2) the actual festival. Given the long timespan of the campaign, I developed two complimentary designs in attempt to keep the visuals interesting and fresh throughout the year. I tend to have a more conservative design style, so this project was the perfect opportunity to let loose and push myself to explore new styles and techniques. The result: a singing ostrich. Execution: I honestly have no idea where this concept came from! I knew I wanted to use an animal as the dominant graphic, but because animals are an overused motif (especially on gig posters), I figured it had better be unique. I went with an ostrich — a rather exotic choice — and ran with the idea, elongating the neck for an extra visual twist. The patterns are a loose reference to maps and help add a contemporary flare to the retro ostrich illustration.

Marketing Art Direction & Design: Melissa Robinson·  Ostrich Illustration: Scott Woyak