Hey Wichita, it’s time to go

BACK TO OUR ROOTS.

We were tasked with creating a print campaign for Open Streets ICT, a Wichita-based organization that shuts down specific streets to make way for local vendors and artists as well as cyclists, walkers and everything in between.

I chose "Back to Our Roots" for the theme of my campaign. I wanted to emphasize the rich history of Wichita and returning to those roots through avoiding the usage of cars. 

I chose a Western-style display font and a smooth slab serif to quickly communicate the juxtaposition between the wild west of Wichita's history and the modern nature of Open Streets. 

I started with a different color palette than I ended up going with: sunset oranges and yellows, a deep candy red and dark umber. I wanted to focus on the interaction between Wichitans in present day and the vibrant history of the area. 

I decided to revisit the original color palette of the provided Open Streets ICT logo. I thought the bright and dynamic colors were a fun contrast to the grittiness of the historic images. The colors also serve as a unique way to invite modernity and freshness to the historic aspect. 

Through the use of bold typography, dynamic color palettes derived from the original logo, and compelling visual histories, this campaign aims to invite Wichita community to embrace the streets as a shared resource—whether for recreation, connection, or exploration. The layered approach of the design represented the complexity and diversity of the people, activities, and opportunities that fill the streets of Wichita on Open Streets days.

By visually translating the spirit of the initiative into every element, the campaign made it clear: Open Streets ICT is not just an event, it's a movement that belongs to the whole city. The campaign’s success lies in its ability to break down barriers, inspire curiosity, and invite everyone to explore Wichita in new ways, all while supporting a healthier, more active lifestyle.

Ultimately, the “Back to Our Roots” print campaign wasn't just about advertising an event—it was about reshaping perceptions of public spaces and inspiring a collective exploration of the streets as areas for all to live, learn, and leap.