THE BRIEF
Through a university competition, I was invited to respond to a brief set by LEEDS 2023 — the city's year of culture. The task was to design a tote bag concept built around the theme of 'Letting Culture Loose', incorporating the official LEEDS 2023 logo.
THE CONCEPT
The illustration draws on my own experience of living in Leeds as a student — the landmarks, streets and spaces that made the city feel distinct. Leeds has an unusually varied architectural character, and that mix of old and new, grand and everyday, became the visual starting point. The piece is personal without being indulgent; it captures a student's view of the city rather than a tourist's.
“Across the year, we have had fantastic engagement from Leeds Arts University students through numerous student industry insight opportunities. Knowing the level of skill and talent that exists amongst students, we wanted to offer an opportunity that allowed them to utilise their artistic talents, whilst also respond to a professional creative brief, boosting experience and early engagement in the industry.”
Niamh Byrne, LEEDS 2023 Head of Placements and Student Opportunity
THE COLLABORATION
The design was selected, which led to a direct collaboration with the LEEDS 2023 team. I worked with their Senior Graphic Designer to finalise the illustration for production, attended the event where the tote bag was showcased, and took part in an interview about my creative process and inspiration behind the work.
FURTHER COMMISSION
Following the tote bag, LEEDS 2023 commissioned a second piece — an A3 poster documenting all the events that took place across the year, produced as a keepsake for the organisation's staff. Being asked back is the part of this project I'm most proud of.