Visual Identity Design for Chennai Photo Biennale Lighthouse

Chennai Photo Biennale Lighthouse is a one-of-a-kind community space designed for photographers and photography enthusiasts. Envisioned as a hub with a darkroom, library, gallery, and art lab, Lighthouse caters to everyone — from students and hobbyists to professionals and art lovers. Our challenge was to deeply understand how Lighthouse functions, break it down into clear, approachable parts, and design an identity that captures its inclusive and versatile spirit while extending the visual language of Chennai Photo Biennale.

Key words: Community-led + Creativity + Photography

Our design process began with deep immersion into the cultural roots and the personal narrative behind the recipes. Inspired by the intricate architecture of Jaipur and Delhi, and the symbolism of stamps that represented travel and exploration, we developed a visual language that reflected both tradition and worldly experience.  

Key design decisions included:

Research-Led Design - We immersed ourselves in understanding the diverse audience, drawing inspiration from international institutions while tailoring the identity to Chennai’s vibrant photography community.

Visual Identity - The final logo features an isometric cube, adding multiple dimensions to the iconic square logo of Chennai Photo Biennale. The design incorporates a door symbolizing entry into creativity, a camera shutter, and multiple facets for dynamic color applications.

Modular Design System - From Instagram grids to large-scale prints, every element was built on a flexible grid system that keeps the branding fresh and adaptable.

Final output was a bold, adaptable identity that feels like an extension of Chennai Photo Biennale yet stands on its own as a welcoming space for learning, creativity, and community.