A brand identity and space design, targeted to explore and promote the discussion of the mental health of comedians at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
I chose to explore mental health and comedians, as not only is mental health still stigmatised in the UK, but also comedians are often more at risk than other professions due to their unusual hours, long times spent travelling or alone and the nature of performing. My aim in this project was to create a branded space that would use design tools to encourage interaction and discussion about mental health in a profession that suffers extensively from mental health issues. My concept is based around the Fringe as the largest gathering of comedians in Scotland. I have created the identity and concept for a space in which Fringe events about mental health and wellness that are targeted at comedians and performers can take place.
A main element of the identity was a series of silhouettes that represent a cross-section of peoples. These were used throughout the identity, in the logo, signage, poster design and as elements in the window display, shown here. These were laser cut perspex, designed so that on first look the silhouette’s are all answering ‘how are you?’ with the standard responses that everyone gives, regardless of truth. Then when a light is turned on behind them, their true feelings can be seen through laser cut holes. This was designed to represent the outward manifestation of ‘being fine’ as a standard response, regardless of true feelings.
As a way to further instigate discussion in the space, I designed a range of products that are targeted with humour to attempt to create a dialogue on mental health and to engage people.
These target a range of symptoms that can be associated with mental health and feeling down, such as soothing tea for insomnia, plasters for a broken heart, an umbrella for rainy days, etc.