Yokkaichi Jazz Festival in 2022 - Poster Illustration

Following the previous event that was originally canceled due to the pandemic, I had the opportunity to work once again as the visual graphic artist for Yokkaichi Jazz Festival in 2022. My role involved creating illustrations for the event poster, merchandise and promotional materials.

Reignited after 2 years hiatus, the festival theme was “Let’s move forward—together with music.”

To help restore energy to a city that had grown quiet under pandemic restrictions, I created the illustration prominently incorporates positive and dynamic elements such as forward momentum, movement, and vibrant vitality, qualities intended to uplift and inspire people.

The illustration depicts music once again flowing through the city as the sun rises over the horizon. People of all ages surrender themselves to the melodies, gradually regaining a sense of liveliness and connection.

The festival's key colour of red was chosen to reflect the determination, strength, and passion behind the festival’s revival. I specifically choose a deep crimson/vermilion hue: a distinctly Japanese red that often used by masters of traditional Japanese painting, such as Katsushika Hokusai, and historically seen in the colours of the national flag and kimono pattern. This red was consistently applied across various media throughout the festival.

The completed main illustration was used across multiple channels, including social media, A2-sized poster, promotional flyer, the cover of the festival brochure, and merchandise such as t-shirts and pin badges.