For the 2025 Jacksonville Jazz Festival, I illustrated the official commemorative poster as part of a broader visual identity for the event. The commemorative poster became a cornerstone of the festival’s branding, combining bold mid-century modern design with a distinctly local twist.
At the heart of the illustration is one of Jacksonville’s most beloved public icons—the giant gator sculpture—reimagined as a cool, confident jazz drummer. With its retro color palette, geometric shapes, and playful energy, the design pays tribute to the rhythm and spontaneity of jazz while honoring a piece of local history in a fresh, unexpected way.
What began as a commemorative poster the design was then adapted for event merchandise, including t-shirts, tote bags, and lapel pins, and expanded into large-scale applications such as billboards and a full bus wrap.
The gator drummer also made appearances across digital and print advertising, from social media to ancillary collateral, and anchored on-site visuals throughout the festival grounds.
This project reflects my passion for design that is both expressive and strategic—work that tells a story, creates connection, and can stretch across mediums while staying true to its spirit. From early concept sketches to seeing the final prints roll off the press, this was a full-circle creative experience rooted in local pride, rhythm, and a little bit of gator flair.
