Working with businesses

The challenge

To make a poster promoting the BATJ speech contest in a way that was distinctly “Japanese” without being too cutesy, generic or stereotypical.

My approach

Having had experience working with one of the representatives from the Japan Foundation and BATJ when studying Japanese at the SOAS university in London, I felt that I was a natural fit for the project. 

Communication was great. I found out there was more to learn, and my initial designs WERE too stereotypical, but we were able to overcome that problem with a little discussion, and listening to any queries that came up.

The outcome

A beautiful gradient design that was simple, peaceful and addressed the need of looking like it belonged to the contest in a way that was authentic and respectful to Japanese language and culture – striking a balance between stereotypes and remaining recognisably Japanese in spirit.