UCI's Banner Campaign: The Power of Imagination
From the Nominator
Imagination isn’t a luxury, especially in a world that faces the kind of environmental, political, ethical, and educational challenges very much at our doorstep. We created a physical banner campaign--The Power of Imagination--with the University of California, Irvine (UC Irvine), School of Humanities to inspire our community to use imagination as a way of knowing and acting. At the heart of the campaign is a series of 24 vertical banners (18- by 28-inches) installed throughout the School of Humanities. Six of these banners are wayfinding and identify particular humanities buildings and programs. The graphic designs are artfully abstract and use a modernist approach to depict themes from art, language, media, ethics, nature, and the environment. Viewers are invited to think beyond what they’re seeing ("imagination required!"). All banners have a social-media call to action at the bottom. Targeted to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and donors, the banners were launched alongside UC Irvine’s rebranding. The campaign integrates the new UC Irvine color palette, but in a way that sets it apart from other schools on campus.
From the Judges
The designs are contemporary, with some pulling on traditional and historic design elements--very appropriate for the school of humanities. They look fantastic, standing out vibrantly with bold graphics and colors. Great use of staff and resources. Way-finding signage without arrows was a nice touch.