Harlem, NYC

SPIRIT FRUIT: BING CHERRIES
MOOD: BRIGHT, BOLD, ENERGETIC, FORWARD
VISUAL DIRECTION: 1960s, VIVID COLORS

The Harlem Renaissance, a creative and intellectual boom of the 1920s and ’30s, was represented by artists such as Langston Hughes and Duke Ellington, who reflected the neighborhood’s dazzling life and social reality. Harlem later became a launching pad for political upheaval and empowerment in the 1960s, and in the 21st century remains vibrant, creative, and focused on the future.

Its rich history, combined with today’s energy, has inspired our direction. The spirit of the neighborhood is captured through graphic elements, buoyant color, and kinetic compositions. Bold, impactful typography pays homage to the civil rights movement.

Concept

The spirit fruit of the Harlem opening—Bing cherries—aptly embodies the vibrant and optimistic mood of the Harlem neighborhood. Our design was inspired by a collage technique that uses vividly colored layered tissue papers, popular in the 1960s.

Direct Mailer

Designed and illustrated by Catie Randall.

Opening Day Gift Bags

Designed by Ethan Barber as one touchpoint in a “Heart of Harlem” social campaign. Additional creative direction from Sarah Farsh.

In-Store Graphic Toolkit

Includes rationale, specifications, and guidelines for the use of color, fonts, typography, social media, and a variety of illustrations and graphic elements.