Smithsonian Groundbreaking Event Branding and Collateral

Logo Design

Editorial

Event Collateral

Concept Development

Creative Direction

Print Production

Challenge:

The Smithsonian selected me to design visual materials (logo, program, place cards, menu, VIP credentials, etc.) for a high-profile museum groundbreaking attended by luminaries like President Obama, Oprah, and Congressman John Lewis. With a non-negotiable deadline and prestige at stake, every piece needed to reflect dignity, history, and celebration.

Event invitations for the National Museum of African American History and Culture with a black-and-white portrait.
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture logo.

Approach:

  • Developed a logo inspired by the basket-weave architecture with a gold-bronze palette, using metallic inks and engraving for elegance

  • Created a 16‑page full-color keepsake program with curated images, historical quotes, and sourced letters from presidents

  • Coordinated closely with the Smithsonian team, worked directly with vendors to approve papers, inks, vellum sleeves, and finishes

  • Managed production timeline during a multi-day on-site review in DC

Result:

The sophisticated branding and collateral elevated the weekend’s tone, honoring the occasion. A second print run of 20,000 keepsake programs was ordered—underscoring both quality and demand.

Interior spread from the National Museum of African American History and Culture booklet, with historical photos.
Groundbreaking ceremony materials for the National Museum of African American History and Culture: poster, badge, tickets, and certificate.
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