Pawsitive time - Pawsitive mind
What can we do to build a better UMBC?
In this project, we were given the task to design a visual identity for a fictional event, service, or resource. I created Paws2Play, an event that would bring dogs from local animal shelters to help students de-stress before their final exams. Mental health problems among adults, often have long term consequences that hinder their performances and affect their academic achievements and physical health. However, studies have shown that the simple act of “petting animals releases an automatic relaxation response” that help lower anxiety and “acts as a catalyst in the therapy process”(UCLAhealth). Paws2Play would not only give animals a chance to be adopted, but it would also give students the opportunity to pause their studies and go play with puppies. After all, Pawsitive Time - Pawsitive Mind!
Sketches
Because I chose to use a recognizable and familiar mark, I wanted to experiment with illustrating different styles of the dog. In the designs, I used rounded elements entirely because Paws2Play is meant to be a fun and playful event. After several iterations, I decided to choose the “negative space” dog inside the Play button shape (second image), because I felt it represented the event’s message best.
Logomark and Typeface
Colors
To find the right color scheme, I listed out words that could associate with Paws2Play’s identity: relax - therapy - comfort - energetic - outside - playful etc. From there, I knew I would choose between shades of blue/green or bright oranges/red.
